User:Heritagefutures

Collection Interests (eclectic)

• Simmon-Omega/Koni-Omega/Rapid Omega family of cameras
• Japanese aerial and other military cameras
• Foth & Co cameras and binoculars
• Konica model I cameras (variants)
• Cameras with Gitzo Shutters and Gitzo gear (older stuff preferred)
• Konishiruku and Rukuoh-Sha (not systematic)
• Mamiya Six cameras (variants)

Websites

www.ausphoto.net

MY SANDBOX

Given the quite erratic nature of model numbering that occurred over the years, the chronology of the thirteen major Mamiya Six models is set out in Table 1. The characteristcs of the individual models, as well as the variants within these models, are described further below. If in doubt about some of the features mentioned in the type descriptions, please refer to the visual documentation of the critical elements.

Table 1 Chronology of Mamiya Six Cameras

Release Date	Model/Variant
1940, September	Mamiya Six I
1941, January	Mamiya Six Ia
1942, January	Mamiya Six III
1943	Mamiya Six II
1947	Mamiya Six IV
1953, November	Mamiya Six V
1954, August	Mamiya Six K
1955, May	Mamiya Six IVb
1955, December	Mamiya Six Automat
1956, March	Mamiya Six K2
1957, May	Mamiya Six IVb
1957, October	Mamiya Six IVs
1957, December	Mamiya Six P
1958	Mamiya Six Automat 2

Pre-War and War-Time Models

The first model was released in December 1940. In subsesequent years, until the end of the war, the Mamiya Six was significantly modified at least three times: in early 1941 (Ia) with two additional models introduced in the next two years. Erratically, Model III was released in 1942 (according to the official Mamiya history website before Model II (1943). All pre-war and war-time models have a set of range finder windows and a seperate waist-level brillant-type finder, resulting in three windows in the front. All units have a single red film frame counter window counter on the back with a horizontal slider. The pre-war and war-time models were all 6x6 format cameras.

Mamiya Six I

The camera was advertised in September 1940 and released in December 1940 at a price of ¥248

Technical details

All units are covered with leatherette. The camera has a slightly larger waist level viewfinder (12 x 12 mm) than the subsequent models. The film respool knob is a solid knurled knob. The indicator arrow next to the film counter is a pointed arrow with a thin tail

Dimensions:

140 x 103 x 51mm (closed), weight 780g.

Lens and shutter combinations:

Interestingly, Mamiya offered purchasers to bring their own lenses, which would be installed in the '0' shutters. This resulted in a range of known shutter combinations.

• K.O.L. Special 75mm f3.5 in NKS–TOKIO '0' shutter with T, B, 1-1/200 sec (standard)
• K.O.L. Anastigmat 75mm f/3.5 in MSU-TOKYO NEW HIT shutter

Mamiya Six Model Ia. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Mamiya Six Ia

The next iteration, publicised in January 1941 saw the use of a larger shutter, which required the redesign of the strut system. The camera sold for ¥298.

Technical details

All units are covered with leatherette. The camera has a slightly larger waist level viewfinder (12 x 12 mm) than the subsequent models. The film respool knob is a solid knurled knob. The indicator arrow next to the film counter is a pointed arrow with a thin tail

Dimensions:

140 x 103 x 51mm (closed), weight 780g.

Lens and shutter combinations:

• K.O.L. Anastigmat 75mm f3.5 in K.O.L. Rapid '0' shutter
• K.O.L. Special 75mm f3.5 in ¶¶¶ '0' shutter with T, B, 1-1/200 sec (standard)

Mamiya Six Model Ia. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Mamiya Six II

The camera was introduced in ¶¶ 1943. Even though numbered Mamiya II, this is in fact the third model to have been introduced. Like the Mamiya Six III, this model has a red double exposure warning pane in the rangefinder window.

Version of Mamiya 6-iii without flash contact.

Technical details

Like the Mamiya Six III from which this model is dereived, the Six II has a smaller waist level finder (10 x10 mm) and the dimpled shutter release button.

Dimensions:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Lens and shutter combinations:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Mamiya Six III

The camera was introduced in ¶¶ 1942 The camera was fitted with a double exposure warning system, comprised of a small transparent, red coloured half-pane that would appear in the rangefinder window. Minor body modifications include the provision of two triangular plates to fasten a carry strap ??

Double exposure warning mark in viewfinder of a Mamiya Six III Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights) (Image rights)

Double exposure warning mark in viewfinder. Flash contact. Technical details

The Mamiya Six II has a smaller waist level finder (10 x10 mm). The shutter release button now has a slight depression (dimple) in the top.

Dimensions:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Lens and shutter combinations:

• Nippon Kogaku Nikkor 75mm f/4.5 in F. Deckel, München Compur Shutter

Mamiya Six III no.23875, Compur shutter (T, B, 1–300), Nikkor 7.5cm f/4.5 lens no.75183. Pictures courtesy of eBayer badman664. (Image rights)

Post-War Models

Production of the Mamiya Six was restarted after World War II. It is not clear whether, and to what extent units of the Mamiya Six III design were built from existing spare parts. The first new model to appear was the Mamiya IV.

Mamiya Six IV

The camera was introduced in ¶¶ 1947.

Technical details

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Dimensions:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Lens and shutter combinations:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Mamiya Six IVb

May 1955 Mamiya 6-iV B Camera body size and weight were reduced to increase compactness.

Technical details

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Dimensions:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Lens and shutter combinations:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Mamiya Six IVs

October 1957 Mamiya 6-iV S Further reduced size and weight from type iV B with addition of built-in self-timer.

Technical details

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Dimensions:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Lens and shutter combinations:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Mamiya Six IV no.35446, Zuiko 7.5cm f/3.5 lens no.38265. Pictures courtesy of Adrian Gotts. (Image rights)

Mamiya Six P

December 1957 Mamiya 6-P Economy priced version of 6-iV S.

Technical details

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Dimensions:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Lens and shutter combinations:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Mamiya Six V

November 1953 Mamiya 6-V Dual format (6x4.5cm and 6x6cm) with automatic film winding adjustment. Maximum shutter speed improved to 1/500 sec. Technical details

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Dimensions:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Lens and shutter combinations:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Mamiya Six K

August 1954 Mamiya 6-K Popular version of Mamiya 6-V without automatic film winding stop. Technical details

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Dimensions:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Lens and shutter combinations:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Mamiya Six K2

March 1956 Mamiya 6-K ii Advanced model to type K with built-in format conversion. (6x6 to 6x4.5cm) Technical details

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Dimensions:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Lens and shutter combinations:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Mamiya Six Automat

December 1955 Mamiya 6-Automat Japan's first automatic shutter cocking by film advancing. Technical details

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Dimensions:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Lens and shutter combinations:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Mamiya Six Automat 2

1958 Mamiya 6 Automat 2 Most highly featured Mamiya 6 camera with Sekor lens, bright Albada finder and other advanced features. Last model of the original folding Mamiya 6 series cameras. Technical details

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Dimensions:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

Lens and shutter combinations:

TEXT TEXT TEXT

PAGE 2 Mamiya Six Design Variations

This page provides a visual overview over those design elements of the Mamiya Six cameras that permit an accurate identification of the various variants.

Dichotomous Key (model Identification)

The Mamiya Six comes in a bewildering range of variants. The dichotomous key provided below provides an avenue at identifying the types of Mamiya Six. Given the confusing similarity of models and variants, it is recommended that you follow the steps, rather than scanning for criteria. When you have identified your model, click on the model name to see a full description. If you are unclear about one of the criteria, either click on the name or scroll down to the bottom of the page for visual identification guides.

How many viewfinder windows are on the front?

Two

Is there a horizontal bar underneath the lens?

Yes

The right hand, square viewfinder window is:

Flush with the casing→Mamiya Six Automat

Surrounded by a small back rim → Mamiya Six Automat 2

No

The right hand, square viewfinder window is:

Flush with the casing

Film Advance knob is

Solid with film speed on top→Mamiya Six P

Mushroom shaped

Depth of Field Indicator is

Surrounded by a small black rim → Mamiya Six IVs

Surrounded by small rectangular plate

Viewfinder housing to the left of the shutter release is

Curved→ Mamiya Six IV

Straight → Mamiya Six K

Surrounded by a rectangular plate that encompasses the left round window as well → Mamiya Six V

Three

Does the body have triangular neckstrap lugs?

Yes → Mamiya Six I

No

Need ID for IA II IIA III

Sub variant options: look at numbering of the feet spacing inside the wheel Made in Japan on door closer as opposed to bottom..

Mamiya Six Ia Mamiya Six III Mamiya Six II

Lenses and Shutters

The Mamiya Six was manufactured in a wide range of lenses and shutters. That holds particularly true for the pre-War and War period, when prospective buyers could even bring in their own shutters and lenses to be fitted.

K.O.L. Special 75mm f3.5 in NKS–TOKIO shutter	K.O.L. Anastigmat 75mm f/3.5 in MSU-TOKYO NEW HIT shutter	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT
Lens and Shutter Combinations of the Mamiya Six. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Double Exposure Prevention

Type I None, pull-out knob only	Type II shutter cocked	Type II shutter released	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT
Lens and Shutter Combinations of the Mamiya Six. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Body Shape Variations

Name Plate

Serial Number above MAMIYA SIX 12x12mm waist view finder	Serial Number above MAMIYA SIX 10x10mm waist view finder	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT
Nameplate variations of the Mamiya Six. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Rangefinder Windows (front)

Three windows, central window with serrated edge	Three windows, central window with smooth edge	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT
Rangefinder window variations of the Mamiya Six. Frontal View Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Three windows, central window with serrated edge	http://XXX.jpg Three windows, central window with smooth edge	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT
Rangefinder window variations of the Mamiya Six. Top View Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Flash Shoe

Three screws	http://XXX.jpg Two screws oblique	http://XXX.jpg Two screws vertical	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT
Flash-shoe variations of the Mamiya Six. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Film Frame Counter Window

http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT
Film Frame Counter Window variations of the Mamiya Six. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Knobs and Struts

Film Advance Knob

Solid, knurled Knob	http://XXX.jpg Mushroom-shaped knob	http://XXX.jpg Mushroom-shaped knob with film speed	http://XXX.jpg Mushroom-shaped knob with film type
Variations of the film advance knob of the Mamiya Six. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Front Door Release

raised button	http://XXX.jpg XXX	http://XXX.jpg XXX	http://XXX.jpg XXXX
Variations of the front door release of the Mamiya Six. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Shutter Release

rounded top	http://XXX.jpg dimpled top	http://XXX.jpg cable release thred	http://XXX.jpg XXXX
Variations of the shutter release of the Mamiya Six. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Lettering and Labelling

Frame Counter

Line Arrow	Hollow triangle	http://XXX.jpg Hollow broad arrow
http://XXX.jpg Filled broad arrow	http://XXX.jpg Filled triangle	http://XXX.jpg Drop-shaped counter
Variations of the frame counter of the Mamiya Six. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Depth of Field Indicator

Demarcation 3.5, 8, 11	http://XXX.jpg Demarcation 3.5, 8, 11, 22	http://XXX.jpg XXX	http://XXX.jpg XXX
Variations of the Depth of Field Indicator of the Mamiya Six. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Focus Wheel

Line Arrows	http://XXX.jpg Filled arrows	http://XXX.jpg Filled arrow, no '1' shown
Variations of the focus wheel of the Mamiya Six. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)

Labels on the Inside

MAMIYA SIX 6x6 TOKYO NIPPON	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT	http://XXX.jpg TEXT TEXT
Labels found in the back door of the Mamiya Six. Images by Dirk HR Spennemann. (Image rights)