YASHICA MAT-124G

Name: Yashica Mat-124G
Brand: Yashica

The Yashica Mat-124G is a twin-lens reflex (TLR) medium format camera that Yashica built from 1970 to 1986. It was the last big step in Yashica's TLR line. It combined solid build quality and precise optics with what was reportedly one of the early integrated through-the-lens (TTL) exposure meters in a consumer-level TLR.

Overview

The Mat-124G came out in 1970 and reportedly succeeded the Mat-124. It was the final major evolution in Yashica's long line of twin-lens reflex cameras. Yashica pitched it at professionals and advanced amateurs, with a metal body, mechanical reliability and advanced exposure control. It was made in Japan and became the most popular model in Yashica's TLR series, with a strong reputation for durability and optical performance.

The big feature is the built-in cadmium sulfide (CdS) TTL exposure meter, which was uncommon in TLRs at the time. It reads light through the taking lens, so the exposure calculation is more accurate than with a handheld meter or a non-TTL system. The meter runs on a PX625 (1.35V mercury) or an equivalent modern battery, possibly in pairs (such as Wein Cell or adapters using 1.5V alkaline with exposure compensation). The readout is a galvanometer needle visible in the viewfinder alongside the focusing screen. Having the meter built in made the camera easier to use, particularly in variable lighting.

Both the taking and viewing lenses are a Yashinon-DS 80mm f/3.5 set. The Mat-124G delivers sharp, contrast-rich images on 120 or 220 roll film, giving twelve 6x6 cm exposures per roll. The film advance is a rotary crank, a big ergonomic improvement over the earlier knob-wind models. The crank is removable and folds flush when not in use. A dial on the back selects 120 or 220. It moves the film pressure plate to suit the thinner 220 film, which effectively doubles film capacity.

Yashica marketed the Mat-124G as a premium TLR alternative to the Rolleiflex 2.8F and Minolta Autocord, with similar image quality at a lower price. Portrait photographers, photojournalists and serious hobbyists used it widely during the 1970s and early 1980s. The solid construction, precise mechanics and excellent optics gave it a long service life, and many still work today.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Type	Twin-Lens Reflex (TLR)
Film Format	6x6 cm on 120 or 220 roll film
Years Produced	1970–1986
Lens Mount	Fixed Yashinon-DS lenses (non-interchangeable)
Taking Lens	Yashinon-DS 80mm f/3.5, 4 elements in 3 groups
Viewing Lens	Yashinon 80mm f/2.8, configuration unverified
Shutter	Copal Square-S leaf shutter
Shutter Speeds	1 sec to 1/500 sec, plus B (bulb)
Aperture Range	f/3.5 to f/32
Metering	TTL CdS meter with center-weighted averaging
Exposure Modes	Manual only; meter-assisted
Viewfinder	Waist-level with ground glass screen, Fresnel lens, and built-in pop-up hood
Focusing	Helical focusing via knob on right side; linked dual-lens system
Film Advance	Removable crank with frame counter
Film Types	120 and 220
Flash Sync	PC terminal with X-sync at all speeds; hot shoe (accessory)
Dimensions	101 mm (H) × 148 mm (W) × 102 mm (D)
Weight	Approx. 1,080 g (without film or batteries)

Key Features

Integrated TTL CdS Exposure Meter: One of the first TLRs with through-the-lens metering, providing accurate exposure readings directly in the viewfinder.
Dual Film Compatibility (120/220): Adjustable film pressure plate allows use of both 120 and 220 film, increasing flexibility and number of exposures.
Rotary Film Advance Crank: Smooth, fast winding mechanism reduces vibration and speeds up operation compared to knob wind.
High-Quality Yashinon Lenses: Sharp, well-corrected optics with minimal aberrations, delivering excellent image quality.
Robust Metal Construction: Die-cast zinc alloy body with durable mechanical components designed for long-term use.

Historical Context

The Mat-124G arrived while SLRs were gaining popularity and electronic automation was starting to appear. Medium format TLRs stayed relevant for portrait, studio and documentary work anyway, thanks to quiet operation, no mirror slap and excellent optics. Yashica positioned the Mat-124G as a modern, feature-rich TLR that could compete with German and Japanese high-end models while costing less.

Its main competitors were the Rolleiflex 2.8F and 3.5F, the Minolta Autocord, and the Bronica ETR series. The Rolleiflex had superior build and lens quality, but it cost nearly double. The Mat-124G found its niche at 90% of the performance for half the cost. TTL metering gave it an edge over the non-metered Autocord IV and earlier Rolleiflex models.

Reception was highly favorable. Contemporary reviews praised its ease of use, accurate metering and excellent lens performance. It became a staple in photo schools and among working photographers who needed a reliable, high-quality medium format camera without the premium price. Production ran until 1986, when declining demand for mechanical TLRs and the rise of autofocus 35mm systems ended it.

Collectibility & Value

Today the Mat-124G is a sought-after classic among medium format film photographers and collectors. Demand in the used market is strong. Well-maintained examples typically sell for $250 - $400 USD, and mint-condition units or rare variants bring more.

When buying a Mat-124G, check shutter accuracy at all speeds (especially 1/500 and 1 sec), the lenses for haze, fungus or scratches, and the meter. The CdS meter is prone to drift or failure over time, particularly if the camera has been exposed to extreme light or moisture. The meter can be recalibrated. The original mercury batteries (PX625) are no longer available, so you need modern substitutes with voltage compensation (e.g., Wein Zinc-Air or hearing aid batteries with -0.15V adjustment).

Common problems are stiff focusing from dried lubricant, degraded light seals that cause light leaks, and worn film advance gears. Still, the Mat-124G is generally considered repairable, and many parts are still available through specialty camera repair shops. The modular design makes servicing relatively straightforward compared to more complex TLRs.

Similar Cameras

Rolleiflex 2.8F – German-built TLR with interchangeable lenses and superior build quality; significantly more expensive.
Minolta Autocord CDS – Japanese TLR with built-in CDS meter; slightly slower lens (f/3.5) and less refined mechanics.
Mamiya C330 – Modular TLR with interchangeable lenses and focusing tracks; bulkier but more versatile.
Bronica ETR – SLR alternative with similar format and metering; interchangeable lenses and focal-plane shutter.
Pentax 6×7 – Larger format SLR with 6x7 cm negatives; professional-grade but much larger and heavier.

Repair & Maintenance

The Mat-124G takes two PX625 1.35V mercury batteries for the TTL meter. Modern equivalents such as the Wein Cell MRB625 or alkaline PX625 with exposure compensation (+⅓ stop) can be used. Battery contact corrosion is common in long-stored units and should be cleaned carefully.

Regular maintenance means a CLA (clean, lubricate, adjust) every 5-10 years, especially if the camera is used often. Test shutter speeds with a timer or oscilloscope, since aging lubricants can throw them off. Replace light seals every 10-15 years to prevent leaks. The film advance is generally reliable but may need a gear inspection if it skips frames.

Because it is mechanically simple and was widely produced, the Mat-124G is considered one of the most repairable and user-friendly TLRs on the market.

Market Value

┌──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ YASHICA MAT-124G                                                Nov 2026 │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ High      $530                                    Latest            $287 │
│ Median    $305                                    Trend                — │
│ Low       $100                                    Volume           ~6/mo │
├──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│   $600 ┤                                                                 │
│        │                       .                                         │
│        │          .                                           .          │
│   $364 ┤                               .       .   .   . .   .  .     .  │
│        │.                      . .        . .  .       . ..   . .   .   .│
│        │                        .   .        .. ....          . .    .   │
│        │                                        .                        │
│    $50 ┤                                    .                            │
│        ├─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│
│    vol │▁         ▁            ▂▁▂  ▁  ▁  ▁ ▂▁▄▂▂▁▁▄   ▂ ▄▁  ▁▄ █   ▁▁▁ ▁│
│        └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────│
│         2026-01                      2026-04                      2026-08│
└──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘