Plaubel Makina 67
The Plaubel Makina 67 is a 120-film range finder introduced in 1979. The the love child of a four-way collaboration of Germen and Japanese origins.
History Class: In 1975 the Doi company of Japan purchased the Plaubel company of Germany from the son of the founder. Kimio Doi president of the Doi company put the newly acquired talent to work helping him design his perfect camera. Assisting the German team was professor Geissler of the Munich University of Appled Sciences. Nikon was tasked with developing a lens specifically for the project. The result was a prototype shown at the 1976 Photokina as the Makinette 67. To bring the dream to market, Doi contacted Konishi Rokko (Konica) to redesign the prototype for manufacture. Konica put Yasuo Uchida the designer of the Konica C35 EF as the project lead.
Reports are that the process was not all smooth and easy. Notably Konica wanted to use a Konica lens but Doi insisted on the Nikon lens. Doi wanted to make automatic exposure but Konica argued that the current technology was not up to the professional standard the 67 was designed to hit. The Germans dug in on some of the external design features including the large lens face.
My Take:
Most things designed by a committee, end as watered-down compromises that miss the mark. The Makina 67 is the exception to the rule. The players stuck to their convictions on the points that mattered most and delivered a better camera because of the group.
In use the Makina 67 requires some thought. The focus is on a dial surrounding the shutter release. The film speed is on the lens behind the aperture. So as a first time user I was adjusting the speed thinking it was the focus and the focus thinking it was the speed. There is also the size. Collapsed the 67 is remarkably stealth for a medium format. Obviously taller than a 35mm range finder but not that much thicker. Open the bellows the camera is well balanced and not difficult to hold.
The compact size does not mean this is a lightweight camera. Everything compacts down to a nice tight brick that comes in at almost 3 lbs. So, you will know you have this thing in your bag.
I loved this camera. It was slow to use but I think I can get used to it. Cost, complexity, and difficulty to find service may prevent this from being an everyday shooter. But size and quality will make it a regular addition. (especially on days I don’t have to carry thing far).
Film: Kodak Portra 400 B&W
Lens: Nikon Nikkor 80mm f2.8