Mamiya's aperture-priority ZE-series SLR — the ZM, Mamiya CS mount, electronic, 1982.
The Mamiya ZM was a 35mm film SLR introduced in 1982 as part of Mamiya's ZE family of electronic bodies using the Mamiya CS bayonet. It came near the end of Mamiya's involvement in 35mm SLRs, a market the company left to concentrate on its medium-format cameras, so the ZM represents one of the last 35mm bodies the firm made.
It is a single-lens-reflex camera for 35mm film on the Mamiya CS mount, which passes aperture information electrically between body and compatible lenses. The ZM provides aperture-priority automatic exposure and manual control with centre-weighted TTL metering, using an electronically controlled focal-plane shutter. Because timing and metering are electronic, the body needs a working battery to fire the shutter.
It is a simpler, more affordable companion to the top ZE-X and suits students and general users who want aperture-priority automation in a light body. The CS lens range is small, so it is best viewed as a self-contained outfit rather than a system to expand widely.
The ZM is a niche body in the UK and CS-mount lenses are hard to find, which should be weighed before buying. Inspect the perishable foam seals and mirror-damper foam, confirm the shutter fires accurately across speeds, and check meter response, remembering the camera is fully battery-dependent. Test film advance, rewind and screen condition, and note that servicing options for this electronic Mamiya line are scarce.