Yashica 635
I had already indulged in a Yashica 12 (see this page for more information the Yashica 12 and Yashica TLR cameras). One Yashica TLR is enough, but when I walked into the SiamTLR shop in Bangkok, and there was a Yashica 635 in very good condition for a very reasonable price. I couldn’t resist.
The Yashica 635 pre-dates the Yashica 12, with production starting in 1958. Unlike most Yashica TLRs, which are only medium format 120 film cameras, the 635 is capable of taking both 120 and 35mm film; although use of the latter requires and adapter kit which I don’t have (and don’t want, what’s the point of putting a 35mm film in a medium format camera…?).
This dual role results in a slightly more messy interface, with one side of the camera given over to 35mm usages:
And the other side offering a winder for 120 film (a knob rather than the gorgeous winding lever on the 12) and the focusing dial:
There is no exposure meter, and the lens is an 80mm F3.5 Yashikor; which is not as good as the Yashinon lens in the Yashica 12.
The dual film possibilities of the 635 makes it feel like a bit of a compromise compared to the crisp and efficient Yashica 12. But it is a very pretty camera and in excellent condition; so very happy to have it in my collection.
