Yashica Half 17 Rapid | S/N: 5034832

Yashica Half 17 Rapid | S/N: 5034832

Yashica Half 17 Rapid 32mm f/1.7 - Good Condition | The Fast-Lens Half-Frame Classic

Introductory Paragraph The Yashica Half 17 Rapid is the definitive choice for the enthusiast who values vintage aesthetics and the efficiency of the half-frame format combined with a remarkably fast lens. Introduced in the mid-1960s, this unique camera is celebrated for utilizing the Agfa Rapid cassette system, which offers an incredibly simple drop-in loading experience for 35mm film without the need for rewinding. This specific unit (S/N: 5034832) features the exceptionally bright Yashinon 32mm f/1.7 lens, delivering incredible low-light capability and a beautiful depth of field rarely found in sub-compact half-frame cameras. Because it utilizes a built-in selenium light meter to guide your exposure, it serves as an incredibly intuitive tool that requires absolutely no batteries. Whether you are a collector of mid-century Japanese design or a street photographer seeking to double your frames per roll while maintaining professional optical quality, this Yashica provides the brilliant glass and mechanical heritage required for a truly unique analog experience.

Key Features

• Ingenious half-frame format (18x24mm) allowing for twice the standard exposures on 35mm film

• Exceptionally fast Yashinon 32mm f/1.7 fixed lens for superior low-light performance and classic bokeh

• Designed for the Agfa Rapid cassette system, offering simple drop-in film loading

• Built-in selenium light meter providing accurate exposure guidance without needing batteries

• Fully mechanical Copal shutter with a versatile range of vintage speeds up to 1/800s

• Intuitive zone focusing system for quick and discreet distance estimation

• Robust, ultra-compact all-metal chassis with a timeless mid-century aesthetic

Condition Report Good condition. The Yashica camera body (S/N: 5034832) shows normal signs of light use and minor cosmetic surface wear consistent with its 1960s vintage. The Yashinon 32mm f/1.7 lens is optically clear; free from fungus, haze, or significant scratches. The fully mechanical shutter fires accurately. The aperture blades are clean and responsive. The built-in selenium light meter is functional and responds to changing light conditions. The film advance thumb-wheel operates smoothly.

Specialist Note "The Half 17 Rapid is an absolute gem for vintage camera lovers. What I love about this model is the phenomenal Yashinon f/1.7 lens—it is incredibly fast for a half-frame camera, meaning you can easily shoot indoors or create portraits with wonderfully soft backgrounds. While it uses the historic Agfa Rapid system, many modern film shooters simply spool standard 35mm film into vintage Rapid cassettes, keeping this classic fully usable today. It’s a rugged, honest piece of Japanese engineering that runs purely on light and mechanics. For anyone wanting a premium, battery-free half-frame camera, this is a top-tier choice."

What's Included

• Yashica Half 17 Rapid Half-Frame Camera (S/N: 5034832)

• Integrated Yashinon 32mm f/1.7 Lens

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Yashica

• Model: Half 17 Rapid

• Camera Type: Compact Film Camera (Half-Frame)

• Lens: Yashinon 32mm f/1.7

• Film Format: 35mm via Agfa Rapid Cassette (18x24mm)

• Exposure: Automatic / Match-Needle with Selenium Meter

• Category: 1. Cameras ▸ Compact Film Camera