solid, simple reliable camera. No backs/inserts needed for 120/220 operation. for a 20yr old camera its fantastic. both 55 and 85 are very good lenses. someday I'll get more.

I have heard its got weak winder. make sure both body & lens are cocked before mating them. I've never had a problem with either. Screen is a little dim.

For a 6x6 SLR handling 120 & 220 film with interchangable lenses can't be beat for the money. great in the studio where an external meter and leaf shutter are useful. I strongly recommend this over a TLR as a way to get into medium format. ebay has tons of pieces always for sale. IF only someone made a cheap digital back for it...

Customer Service

Ross Yerkes in LA (add in shutterbug) has done a workover on all my parts. vey reasonable price, good work

Similar Products Used:

Yashica TLR, Contax etc.

excellent optics
perfect studio camera
easy operation

discontinued in the 70's
problems with the film advance gears

I have the 85mm 2.8 & 150mm 3.5; these lenses are really sharp!! I shoot weddings exclusively in the 35mm format, but all bridal portraits are done with the Kowa, this cameral was purchased through EBay, in emaculate condition, hard to believe it's 25+yrs old. I'm searching for the 55mm and the 110mm(micro) I always advance the film crank by hand, (don't use the pull-out crank winder(supposedly this is what strips the gears)
These lenses have the leaf type Seiko shutters, so they synch at any speed. I use the 90 degree prism (eye-level) finder, and the quick focus lense attachments, and I wouldn't trade this camera for anything!!! If you are entering the medium format arena, I would strongly suggest the Kowa(s) they made the Kowa Super66 (with interchangeable backs; the Kowa6; and the Kowa6mm
which has mirror lock-up, and double-exposure capability. I picked up the 150mm lense at a local camera show; and other accessories through Shutterbug camera magazine. I've noticed the prices of the bodies/lenses are slowly increasing; so the word is getting out that Kowa's aren't that bad. Also, Kowa is one of the foremost optical manufacturers in Japan (they are not out of the optics business)

Customer Service

I've heard of Ross Yerkes, I think he's in California

Similar Products Used:

Canon EOS 650; AE-1'
AE-1Program, Mamiya RB67
Yashica 124G