Yashica Half 17 Rapid

Yashica Half 17 Rapid | S/N: 50312308

Like New Condition | Half-Frame Film Camera | The High-Speed "Rapid" Street Specialist

The Yashica Half 17 Rapid is a masterfully engineered half-frame camera, designed during the 1960s to offer double the exposures of a standard 35mm roll. Featuring the exceptionally fast and sharp Yashinon 32mm f/1.7 lens, it is celebrated for its ability to produce high-quality imagery even in challenging low-light conditions. This specific model is iconic for its use of the "Agfa Rapid" cassette system, which eliminated the need for manual rewinding and offered a unique, streamlined workflow for the candid photographer. With its bright-frame viewfinder and sophisticated selenium-cell exposure system, the Half 17 Rapid provides the mechanical soul and mid-century elegance that made Yashica a leader in the compact camera revolution.

Key Features

• Ultra-fast Yashinon 32mm f/1.7 prime lens for elite low-light performance

• Half-frame format, allowing for 72 exposures on a standard 36-exposure length

• Unique Rapid Cassette loading system for fast, rewind-free film handling

• Fully automatic exposure control powered by a circular selenium light meter

• Large, bright-frame viewfinder with parallax correction marks for accurate framing

• Ergonomic thumb-wheel film advance for rapid-fire street photography

• All-metal industrial design with classic 1960s Japanese styling

Introductory Paragraph The Yashica Half 17 Rapid is the definitive choice for the enthusiast who values both economy and optical speed. This specific unit (S/N: 50312308) is a standout because it is in "Like New" condition, appearing as a pristine example of the peak half-frame era. Manufacturers at the time competed to fit professional-grade "f/1.7" glass into pocketable bodies, and this Yashica is the crown jewel of that effort. The 32mm focal length provides a natural wide-angle perspective (roughly equivalent to 45mm in full-frame terms), making it a versatile tool for daily life and environmental portraits. Because the selenium meter powers the exposure automatically, it serves as an intuitive "point-and-shoot" that requires no batteries. Whether you are experimenting with diptychs or documenting urban street scenes, this Yashica provides the optical brilliance and mechanical charm that defined the golden age of compact analog cameras.

Condition Report Like new condition. The Yashica camera body (S/N: 50312308) is in exceptional aesthetic state with virtually no visible signs of wear. The Yashinon lens is optically flawless; free from fungus, haze, or scratches. The selenium meter is highly responsive and has been tested for accuracy. The shutter fires perfectly across its range, and the internal Rapid-loading mechanism remains in factory-smooth condition.

Specialist Note "Finding a Half 17 Rapid in this 'Like New' condition is a rare treat for any collector. What I love about this model is the lens; having an f/1.7 aperture on a half-frame camera is a luxury that allows for a level of background separation you rarely see in this format. It’s a rugged, honest piece of Japanese engineering that feels incredibly solid in the hand. For anyone looking to explore the 'Rapid' system or simply wanting a high-speed vintage street camera that stands out from the crowd, this Yashica is a top-tier performer."

What's Included

• Yashica Half 17 Rapid 35mm Half-Frame Camera (S/N: 50312308)

• Integrated Yashinon 32mm f/1.7 Lens

• Leather Case 

• Lens Cap

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Yashica

• Model: Half 17 Rapid

• Camera Type: Compact Film Camera

• Film Format: 35mm (Half-Frame 18x24mm) / Rapid System

• Lens: Yashinon 32mm (3,2cm) f/1.7

• Shutter Speeds: 1/30s to 1/800s (Automatic)

• Category: 1. Cameras ▸ Compact Film Camera

• Battery Type: None (Selenium Cell Powered)

• Category: 1. Cameras ▸ Instant Camera

• Battery Type: None (Selenium Cell Powered)