Yashica LM44 - anyone know about these ?

[stevewestern]

I have just been given one of these - anyone know if they are any good, and why 4x4 negs ?
It is in lovely condition, but is it worth using ?

 

[JohnW]

It will date from late 1950s into early 60s and is basically a rolliflex copy.

they came with a variety of neg size options but i can't remember if it was done by way of changeable masks or if the size was fixed and there were different models.


If i remember correctly they were quite well built but were not up to rolliflex quality - or price. If you haven't ever used a TLR its worth a go just for the experience.

 

[JohnW]

forgot to say that you will probably have a struggle to find 127 film.

the why 4x4 is easy. using the right mount and transparency film you get what used to be called a "superslide". They would fit in any 35mm projector and gave a much bigger image. This was seen as an advantage. I suppose it was if you didn't have room to get further back from the screen and couldn't afford a wider projector lens.

 

[stevewestern]

Cheers JohnW - I have now found out that 127 film is still available, but it does seem as if this is a camera to look at rather than to use (I was told that I was to be given a 6x6 yashica..)
Might be worth seeking out a 'proper' TLR I feel....