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Description
The Kowa Six is a 6x6 medium format SLR camera introduced in 1968, designed for professional and enthusiast photographers seeking high-quality square-format images on 120 film. This model features a leaf shutter system and interchangeable lenses, with the included Kowa 85mm f/2.8 offering excellent sharpness and smooth rendering. Built in Japan, the Kowa Six was developed to compete with contemporaries like the Hasselblad 500C and Bronica S2, offering robust construction and intuitive handling.

Condition
Overall Condition: Very Good
Camera shows light cosmetic wear consistent with age. Shutter fires accurately across speeds. Viewfinder is bright and focusing screen is clear. Lens optics are clean with no haze or fungus. Film advance and mirror mechanisms operate smoothly.

Included

Collectors Notes
The Kowa Six is a distinctive entry in the medium format SLR market, known for its quiet leaf shutter and modular system. The 85mm f/2.8 lens is a standout for portrait and general use, offering a natural perspective and pleasing bokeh. Boxed examples with original documentation are increasingly rare, making this a desirable piece for collectors of Japanese medium format gear. Its square format and mechanical reliability make it ideal for both display and shooting.

Key Features

SEO Optimised Keywords
Kowa Six camera, 6x6 medium format, Kowa 85mm lens, vintage Japanese SLR, leaf shutter camera, boxed Kowa Six, medium format film camera, 120 film SLR, classic square format camera, Kowa Six UK


Photographs of item

Note that all the photographs are of the item for sale that you will receive. If you notice that the photographs in any way do not match the title or description please contact me and let me know.

Equipment Testing

I will carry out a standard set of testing for all equipment I am selling and will highlight any issues found as well as the perceived condition of the item. Not all tests will be appropriate for a specific camera or lens, but the appropriate ones will be carried out.

  Test 
Digital Camera
  1. Camera powers on with no errors
  2. It is possible to write to memory card
  3. It is possible to  read from memory card
  4. Inspect test image for any noticeable sensor issues
  5. Standard controls/buttons work
  6. LCD screens work and display correctly
  7. The viewfinder is clear
  8. If the camera uses removable lenses, test that lenses mount correctly and functions work.
Film Camera
  1. Test that the camera winds on
  2. Does the shutter release
  3. Test the shutter through all speeds and note whether the speed varies appropriately (speed accuracy not tested or guarenteed)
  4. Shutter curtains open and close as expected
  5. Self timer functions
  6. If the cameras has a light meter that the meter works  and varies appropriately (accuracy of meter not tested or guarenteed)
  7. Condition of the viewfinder
  8. Condition of the mirror 
  9. Rangefinder functions correctly
  10. Bellows condition (specifically looking for cracks and light leaks)
 Lens
  1. Shine a bright light through and check for fungus, haze, dust and scratches
  2. Attach the lens to an appropriate camera body 
  3. Test the function of aperture ( does it open and close appropriately)
  4. Test the function of focus (AF and Manual) 
  5. Function of zoom
  6. Is movement excessively stiff or loose

 

Equipment Grading

Grade Condition
Mint As new condition, no marks, fully working
Excellent very minor usage marks detected, fully working
Very good Some minor usage marks or small scratches, fully working
Good Marks consistent with use, minor wear on edges, small scratches, fully working
Fair Heavier wear marks, possibly some minor issues with functionality, but usable
Poor Heavy wear, not fully working, would require work, should be considered as a renovation project

 

Notes of Condition

Please note the following:

Shipping

Shipping

The item will be shipped within 2 working days after your payment has been received & cleared. It will often be sent quicker than this.

All items will be sent securely packaged. Please note that although the majority of packing materials we use are new, we will reuse materials when available and encourage all of our customers to do the same.

Items below £150 in value will be sent by Royal Mail 48, those above this value will be sent via Special Delivery in the UK.

We are happy to send internationally.

Returns

All items sold come with a 30 day no fuss return guarantee with the exception of items sold as faulty or for parts.