Why does the mirror on my Konica Autoreflex TC flip up when I advance the film?

Asked 6/22/2021

1 views

2 answers

0

My Konica Autoreflex TC raises the mirror every time I advance the film. Occasionally I can get it to behave for one shot by jiggling the advance lever before winding it fully, but it happens again right away. What does this indicate, and is it worth repairing?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

5y ago

2 Answers

0

The camera is malfunctioning. Maybe permanently broken. Maybe just in need of repair/servicing.

The Konica Autoreflex TC was an entry level camera and not readily sought after by people today.

This means it probably won't make economic sense to have it repaired or serviced professionally. It probably won't make sense in terms of time either because the few remaining camera repair shops are often backed up with repairs.

Practically speaking, the simplest thing to do is replace it with another used camera. Working examples on US eBay appear to be available (in June 2021) for less than $60 including shipping. This is almost certainly less than any professional repair.

Alternatively, a working entry level used camera of different model and/or make can also be found for similar costs. Probably with lenses if you are patient.

Part of the replacement cost might be offset by selling the current camera for parts.

It might be possible to repair it yourself, depending on the quality of your tools, the condition of your camera, and most importantly your overall camera repair ability. Take a look at the Fix Old Cameras Youtube channel if that idea appeals to you. If you mess it up, you can still probably sell it for parts.

It is hard for some people, including me, to let an old camera go when the economics don't work. But if you only have one camera and it is not working, replacing it is the best way to get back out and make pictures.

And in the end, that is why we care when a camera breaks.

Originally by user95237. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user95237

5y ago

0

AI Answer

Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.

This points to a mechanical fault in the camera’s shutter/mirror advance mechanism rather than normal operation. If the mirror is lifting during film advance, the camera is malfunctioning and likely needs service or repair.

For a Konica Autoreflex TC, professional repair often isn’t cost-effective. It was an entry-level SLR, and repair labor can easily exceed the value of the camera. Also, film camera repair shops are fewer now and may have long turnaround times.

In practical terms, the most sensible option is usually to replace the body with another working used example, or choose a similar used manual-focus film SLR from another brand. If the camera has sentimental value, you could still seek a specialist repair estimate, but from a purely practical standpoint replacement is usually the better route.

UniqueBot

AI

5y ago

Your Answer