The Mamiya M645 1000s was the successor and upgrade to the original M645. Introduced just a year after the original it was an upgrade by adding several new features. The design of the 1000s didn’t change much on the outside other than adding a few new buttons and levers, it was more the inside that had the changes. Added features were the increased shutter speed to 1/1000 of a second (giving its name), a small lever to the right of the lens was added to shut the aperture down to view depth of field. Also added was a self timer, and a safety button tot he film speed knob to prevent accidental changing of speeds.
I stumbled upon this camera while at an outdoor market in Aberfoyle Ontario, Canada and almost passed it up as I already had the original M645 given that it looks almost identical to the original, it wasn’t until I noticed the 1000s next to the M645 badge that I realized it was the next model up. I haven not yet taken any images with the 1000s as of yet, but since its an improvement of the original M645 that I have already shot with I know it’ll be another great camera to go out and shoot with and if anything better because of the added features.
The Specs:
Produced: 1976-1990
Type of camera: Medium format Single Lens Reflex
Film/picture format: 120/220 6x45cm with an aspect ratio of 4:3
Lens Mount: Mamiya Sekor 645 bayonet
Lens(es): Interchangeable
Shutter: Electronically controlled vertical travel focal plane shutter with shutter speeds of 1/1000 to 8 seconds including Bulb. Multiple exposures are also available.
Exposure metering: not built into camera, only metered viewfinders have this option.
Viewfinder: Interchangeable with four waist level and pentaprism metered and non-metered viewfinders.
Focussing screen: Interchangeable with 5 different screens
Reflex mirror: Automatic return
Depth-of-field preview: Small lever on the right hand side of the front of the camera.
Frame counter: Mechanical additive
Film advance: Hand wound knob on right hand side, can have a power winder attached.
Power source: One 6v A544 battery in camera body powering the shutter
Camera back: Hinged for 120 or 220 film insert.
Camera finish: Black