Yashica FX-3 Analogue camera

Brief description: 35mm mechanical Yashica FX-3 single-lens reflex, functioning, with Yashica ML 50mm f/2 lens. Unique OOAK item subjected to high-level artisanal aesthetic restoration (Florentine Method), featuring a customized textured coating with a 70s/80s Japanese mecha/manga theme. Includes Restoration Certificate and Condition Report. Weight (kg): Approximately 0.69 kg (body ~0.53 kg + lens ~0.16 kg). Note: for shipping, the finished and protected package weight using double-boxing technique will be about 1.2 - 1.5 kg. Dimensions (cm): 13.5 (width) x 8.5 (height) x 9.0 (depth, including the 50mm lens protrusion). Material: Frame and internal components in metal (aluminum/steel alloy), outer caps in high-strength polycarbonate, lens in metal and optical glass. Exterior coating customized in a high-performance technical material (matte finish, anti-reflection and hydro-repellent to oily/aqueous substances). Color: Black (original body and lens finish) with a multi-color graphic pattern on the sides (dominant tones: white, black, blue/gray aviation, orange and red accents). Shipping method: Tracked and fully insured global shipping for the final auction value. Professional packing by premium express couriers (UPS, DHL, FedEx or Poste Italiane/SDA) with dispatch within 1–3 business days.

Lotto Title (Recommended):
Yashica FX-3 “Golden Years of Mecha” – Artisanal Restoration OOAK – Limited Edition Analog Matter (+ Certificate)

Description:
A unique piece of pop culture history: The FX-3 “Tokyo Cybernetic”
Secure an exclusive piece of photography history. This lot represents a bespoke artistic restoration of a Yashica FX-3, a SLR that embodied mechanical reliability between the 1970s and 1980s, today reinterpreted through the lens of the cultural phenomenon that marked its country of origin: the golden age of mecha and Japanese robotic manga.

The Vision and Design: “The Robot Otaku Era”
This restoration draws direct inspiration from the Japanese cyberpunk and robotic aesthetics of 1979-1980. After studying three different graphic solutions, I selected a pattern that integrates perfectly with the FX-3’s geometric, compact lines. The design celebrates the visual fragmentation of manga panels, creating a visual narrative that envelops the body without interrupting its dynamic legibility, despite the complex division of pieces on the front. A true tribute to Japanese pop culture of the era.

The Craft of the “Florentine Method”
Restored by a professional with over 20 years of experience in high-end antique restoration and decorative arts restoration in Florence, Italy. This camera testifies to how classical heritage meets pop modernism (heritage revamping).

Total Preparation: Complete removal of the original leatherette (notoriously prone to degradation), followed by meticulous cleaning and decontamination of the frame to ensure an impeccable base for application.

Material Innovation: Rejecting common commercial approaches (such as glossy adhesive paper or standard lamination, rejected in tests as aesthetically unsuitable), I chose a high-performance material. This coating provides a sophisticated matte finish and a tactile grip superior to mass-produced synthetic leathers.

Calibration Precision: The pattern application requires millimeter precision so that tolerances of the selectors, the self-timer lever, and the strap lugs remain perfect. Each piece is hand-shaped and applied with the rigor of an art restorer.

Mechanical and Optical Conditions
Tested and Working: The camera is a perfectly operational photographic instrument. The native mechanics, already very good, have been preserved.

ML 50mm f/2 Optics: The Yashica ML 50mm f/2 — famed for its sharpness and color rendition of its coatings — is clean and transparent.

Mechanical: Shutter speeds are accurate, the light meter responds correctly to changes in light (battery compartment cleaned), the mirror and viewfinder are sharp. Ready for your next 35mm film.

Why choose this Yashica?
The FX-3 is a workhorse of analog photography, but this special edition turns it into a collectible sculptural icon. It’s the perfect bridge between Japanese technical reliability and high-end Florentine artisanal craftsmanship.

Note: This project is part of an exclusive collection of only 20 cameras from different eras and countries, individually customized.

“Every camera includes a Condition Report signed and a Restoration Certificate issued by my Florence studio, detailing the aesthetic and mechanical work performed.”

Shipping and Packaging Information

Guaranteed Professional Packaging: As a specialist in restoring precious art objects and antiques, I fully understand the fragility of vintage mechanical instruments.

Safety first: The camera will be packed and protected by multiple anti-shock layers (high-density bubble wrap and eco-friendly fillers) to ensure it survives international transit without any alteration to the mechanical calibrations.

Dedicated Protections: The lens and viewfinder will be specifically protected to avoid micro-scratches during handling.

Global Tracked Shipping:
Carrier: Worldwide shipment via premium couriers (UPS, DHL, FedEx or Poste Italiane/SDA) to ensure maximum speed and reliability.
Real-time tracking: The tracking code will be provided immediately after shipment, allowing you to follow your Yashica at every stage of the journey.
Dispatch times: Items are generally shipped within 1–3 business days of payment confirmation.

International Buyers (Extra-EU) – Note:
Customs and Duties: Customs duties, taxes and import charges are not included in the item price or shipping costs. These costs are the buyer’s responsibility. Please check with your country’s customs office regarding the amount of such charges before bidding.
Insurance: All shipments are fully insured for the final sale value to protect your investment.
VERY IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ BEFORE BIDDING.

Return Policy and Security:
Security Markings: To prevent fraud related to component or internal part replacement, this camera has been internally marked with invisible security ink and all serial numbers have been recorded prior to shipment.
Return Conditions: Returns are accepted only if the item is returned in the same aesthetic, cosmetic and mechanical condition in which it was shipped.
Tampering: Any attempt to disassemble, DIY repair or alter the internal mechanics or the customized external finish will immediately invalidate the return policy.
Inspection: All returns will be inspected by a specialized technician before issuing a refund.