Seeking help finding a mint Mamiya C330

[sudaval]

Hello, all,

I joined the forum because I'm trying to support my son's interest in photography. This spring, he'll be taking a course in a pretty demanding college photography program where they'll be using C330s. My wife and I would like to give him a camera that he can use, instead of one of the school cameras. I'd really appreciate any suggestions on locating camera vendors who specialize in Mamiyas. We're in LA, and it would be great if you could point me to somebody out here, but all suggestions are welcome.
Thanks in advance.

[raybar]

The quick answer is eBay.

In terms of stores, no one specializes in Mamiya, and you will have a difficult time finding anyone with a C330 in stock. Except for Samy's, all the large dealers in the area have gone out of business, and smaller neighborhood shops usually wouldn't have professional equipment. But, if you phone them all and ask, you might get lucky.

You might consider visiting one of the monthly camera shows at the Elks Lodge in Pasadena or the Brookhurst Community Center in Anaheim. These are big "swap meets" of cameras, and I usually see a few Mamiyas on offer. Prices are often negotiable, but don't expect bargains (despite the name of the shows). 
www.bargaincamerashows.com

I can't help wondering why a photography course would insist that students use a specific camera, particularly one that has been discontinued for over 20 years. Also, while twin lens reflexs were common and popular for years, their time is long past. Don't get me wrong - these were excellent cameras, and I still have one, along with several lenses and other accessories. But it's been a long time since I used it. 

[John Farrell]

The simplest answer, is for your son to use one of the school cameras.