Mamiya RZ67
Contents
Introduction
The Mamiya RZ series of cameras to date consists of three models: (a) the original Mamiya RZ 67, introduced in 1982; (b) the Mamiya RZ 67II, introduced in 1995; and (c) the Mamiya RZ 67IID, which was introduced in 2004. The name "RZ" was derived from the Mamiya RB 67, where "RB" stands for revolving back. Originally it was thought that the RZ series would replace the RB series, but this did not happen, today the Mamiya 67 Pro SD and the Mamiya RZ 67 IID are still being sold new. The RZ models can use many of the RB components, such as lenses and backs, but with limitations, as the RB series cameras are completely mechanical, while the RZ lenses have Seiko #1 electronic shutters and electronic components are used throughout the camera. Being completely modular, the camera can be configured in many ways. Lenses, viefinders and backs can all be exchanged and full auto exposure is possible with some of the finder options. The RZ models can mostly be found in studio settings, but as they are now quite affordable in the used camera market, more of them are in the hands of enthusiasts, who also use them on location.
Compared To
There were two other major competitors who manufactured 6x7 cm cameras, Pentax and Bronica. The Pentax 67 looks like an oversized 35 mm SLR and is not as modular as the RZ as there are no interchangable backs and Polariod film is only supported in especially modified cameras. The Bronica GS-1 does not feature a revolving back and therefore is smaller and lighter than the RZ. Unfortunately, the Bronica GS-1 also does not feature bellows focusing, therefore the lenses cannot be focused as close as most of the Mamiya RZ lenses can.
Bibliography
- Lewis, Gordon, ed. The History of the Japanese Camera. Rochester, N.Y.: George Eastman House, International Museum of Photography & Film, 1991. ISBN 0-935398-17-1 (paper), 0-935398-16-3 (hard). P. 169.
- Bob Shell (1995) Mamiya Pro Guide, Hove Foto Books, Newpro, Faringdon Oxon., UK, ISBN 0-906447-76-3
Links
In English:
- Mamiya RZ67 at medfmt
- Instruction manuals Mamiya and accessores manuals at www.orphancameras.com by Mike Butkus
- RZ67II Review in ephotozine (2001) by David Tarn
- Mamiya RZ Lens Table by Christoph Sensen
- Mamiya RZ Closeup Tables for Film Backs by Christoph Sensen
In French:
- Mamiya RZ67 on www.collection-appareils.fr by Sylvain Halgand
In Japanese:
- The 6×4.5 and 6×7 SLRs in the Camera Museum of the Mamiya official website, covers the original RZ67 Professional
