YASHICA MAT-124

The Yashica Mat-124 is a twin-lens reflex (TLR) medium format camera that Yashica made from 1968 to 1970. It sits between earlier Mat models and the better-known Mat-124G, which followed it. It also brought integrated through-the-lens (TTL) exposure metering to the line.

Overview

Yashica introduced the Mat-124 in 1968. The Mat series had been running since the early 1950s. Earlier models such as the Mat-12, Mat-124 and Mat-127 used external selenium metering cells or no metering at all. The Mat-124 was the first in the series with a built-in, coupled TTL cadmium sulfide (CdS) exposure meter. The meter reads light through the taking lens, which helps exposure accuracy, particularly with filters or bellows extension. The camera was aimed at advanced amateur and semi-professional photographers who wanted a reliable, precise medium format system with modern metering.

The Mat-124 kept the classic TLR layout. It has a fixed 75mm f/3.5 Yashinon-D lens on both the viewing and taking sides, in a vertical twin-lens arrangement. It uses 120 roll film and gives 12 square 6x6cm exposures per roll. The page lists a focal-plane shutter with a wide range of speeds, a sturdy metal body and a folding waist-level finder. Production ended in 1970. The Mat-124 laid the technical groundwork for the nearly identical Mat-124G, which succeeded it and became one of the most popular Japanese TLRs of the 1970s. The Mat-124 is often overshadowed by its successor, but it was the first TTL-metered TLR in Yashica's lineup.

Specifications

Key Features

• First Yashica Mat with TTL CdS metering: Enabled accurate through-the-lens light measurement, a major upgrade over selenium-based systems.
• Precision Copal Square-S shutter: Offered shutter speeds from 1 to 1/500 sec plus Bulb, with precise mechanical control.
• Matched Yashinon-D lenses: High-quality 75mm f/3.5 taking lens and faster f/2.8 viewing lens for brighter framing.
• Integrated exposure meter display: Viewfinder includes a central needle meter visible through the waist-level finder.
• Flash synchronization with variable sync speed: Unusual for TLRs, allowing flash use at slower shutter speeds for ambient blending.

Historical Context

The Mat-124 came out when Japanese camera makers were quickly advancing optical and electronic integration in medium format. In the late 1960s photographers wanted built-in metering and better handling, and Yashica upgraded the Mat series with modern electronics. The Mat-124 was developed as a direct evolution of the Mat-127. Instead of external selenium cells, it had a CdS meter with TTL capability, a feature previously seen only on high-end professional systems. That put it ahead of many contemporaries in exposure technology.

The Mat-124 faced strong competition from Rollei's TLRs, particularly the Rolleiflex 2.8F and 3.5F. Those offered superior build quality and interchangeable lens systems, but at significantly higher prices. More affordable rivals included the Minolta Autocord and the Ricoh Diacord, though neither offered TTL metering at the time. That made the Mat-124 a mid-tier professional tool with advanced metering and solid optics at a competitive price. Its short production run suggests limited market penetration, likely due to its high cost and the imminent release of the improved Mat-124G in 1970, which had a brighter viewing screen and minor ergonomic refinements.

Collectibility & Value

Today the Yashica Mat-124 is a relatively rare and underappreciated collector's item. Because of the short production period and the popularity of the Mat-124G, working examples are uncommon. In the current collector market (as of 2024), a fully functional Mat-124 typically sells for $250 - $400 USD, depending on condition, shutter accuracy and meter function. Cameras with non-working or missing meters are often priced lower, around $150 - $200.

When buying a Mat-124, check several things: shutter operation at all speeds (especially 1/500 sec, which can stick from dried lubricants), accurate aperture actuation, and meter function. The original PX625 mercury battery is no longer made, so users rely on modern alkaline or silver oxide replacements (such as the WeinCell MRB625) or voltage-regulating adapters to get correct meter readings. The CdS cell itself can degrade over time and give inaccurate exposure readings. Other common problems are light leaks from deteriorated film pressure plate foam, cloudy or scratched ground glass, and stiff focusing mechanisms. Repair parts are scarce, but experienced technicians can service the Copal shutter.

Similar Cameras

• Rolleiflex 3.5F – German-engineered TLR with interchangeable lenses, superior build, and exceptional optics; significantly more expensive.
• Minolta Autocord CDS – Japanese TLR with built-in CDS meter (non-TTL), 80mm f/3.5 lenses, and compact design.
• Mamiya C330 – Modular TLR with interchangeable lenses, focusing tracks, and professional-grade features.
• Ricoh Diacord 80 – Budget-friendly TLR with coupled rangefinder focusing and 80mm f/3.5 lens.
• Yashica Mat-124G – Direct successor with nearly identical specs but improved viewfinder and longer production run.

Repair & Maintenance

The Yashica Mat-124 needs a 1.35V PX625 mercury battery for proper meter operation. Modern substitutes like the WeinCell MRB625 (1.35V) or adapters for 1.5V SR44 batteries are commonly used. Voltage mismatches can cause overexposure, so a regulated adapter is recommended. The Copal Square-S shutter is sturdy but prone to speed inaccuracy over time, especially at high speeds, and benefits from a CLA (clean, lubricate, adjust) service by a specialist. The CdS meter cell may need cleaning or replacement if it is unresponsive. Check the focus gears and film advance mechanisms for smooth operation. Given the camera's age, replace the rubber seals and light traps to prevent light leaks. The Mat-124 is moderately difficult to repair because parts are hard to find, but the mechanical design is fairly straightforward for experienced technicians.

eBay Listings

Yashica Mat-124G Twin Lens Camera 80mm 3.5 Yashinon 6x6 1-1/

$299

Yashica MAT-124G TLR Camera with 80mm F/3.5 Lens, USA (film

$390

Yashica Mat-124 TLR Medium Format Film Camera 80mm f/3.5 Cop

$190

Broken Yashica Mat-124 Twin-Lens Reflex - Doesn't Fire

$140

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