Used Phase One / Mamiya 645 lenses

Medium format glass is a serious investment, and that is exactly why used is so attractive: these lenses last for decades and hardly decline in optical quality. When buying, pay particular attention to the difference between leaf shutter lenses (the LS and Blue Ring models, with a shutter inside the lens for fast flash synchronisation) and ordinary AF lenses — for studio and flash work that makes a big difference. Check that the mount matches your body or digital back, because not every Mamiya 645 lens communicates seamlessly with every Phase One back.

What should you look out for with used medium format lenses?

Look at the glass itself: fungus, haze and internal dust are the main culprits. With autofocus lenses you want the motor to run smoothly and quietly; with leaf shutter models the condition of the shutter blades is important. Aperture blades should be dry and snappy, with no oil. All our examples are professionally inspected and tested, so you know what you're bringing home.

Who is this section for?

For portrait, fashion, product and landscape photographers who work with a Mamiya 645 or a Phase One / Mamiya DF system and want to expand or replace their set. If you already have a back and body, this is where you fill in your focal lengths in a targeted way. Those looking for a sharp standard lens often choose the Phase One Schneider 80mm f/2.8 LS (Blue Ring), while the Phase One Schneider 55mm f/2.8 AF LS and the Mamiya 645 AF 55mm f/2.8 are popular for wide-angle work, and the Phase One Schneider 120mm LS Macro f/4 (Blue Ring) is the answer for macro and detail shots. Every lens comes with a minimum 12-month warranty and 14-day returns, so you can take your time finding out whether a focal length suits the way you work.