Show off your Leica I/II/III/LTM Camera [Archive]

doubs43

02-19-2006, 22:48

I'll try to display mine later today. It's almost 2 AM (0200 for our European friends) and I need to get to bed!

OK...... a couple of teasers if I must. Here's my IIIc with Imarect finder. This camera is so smoooooth it's scary! Advancing the film is completely effortless. Also my III with 90mm Elmar & Imarect finder.

Walker

Gordon Coale

02-19-2006, 23:29

Here are several pictures of my IIIc. The first one is of my grandfather, with the IIIc over his shoulder, and grandmother. He was stationed in northern Japan during the occupation. This was probably taken in 1949 or 1950. In the late 1950s my grandfather and grandmother came back to Japan to visit. We were living in Japan at the time and the other two gaijins in the second picture are my mom and dad. My grandfather is taking pictures with the IIIc. The last two are recent.

laptoprob

02-19-2006, 23:32

Wow Gordon, you have a long-time family piece there! Impressive!

I will show mine a little later. Got to get to work now.

Rob

doubs43

02-19-2006, 23:37

Gordon, having a family heirloom like your grandfather's IIIc is special. I hope your children learn to appreciate it as much as you do. Your grandfather undoubtedly purchased it new as the serial number places it as 1949 production which ran from 465001~480000. A further block of IIIc cameras were made in 1949/1950 and ran from 480001~495000.

Walker

Rich Silfver

02-19-2006, 23:45

Walker, nice!
I like the Imarect finder....

Here's my III with an Elmar 90/4 by the way:
http://www.pbase.com/rsilfverberg/image/54279551.jpg

rover

02-20-2006, 02:47

Sure, I ask and nothing happens, but Richie asks......

Mom, it isn't fair.......:(

Good job, ;)

Everyone look at my signature. I already have a 50 Elmar, just need a body to use as a rear cap.

Richard Black

02-20-2006, 05:41

Here's my IIIc with it new covering. Someone wrote that their's was smooth it scary, well mine is too. So much so, I doubt that it is advancing the film. Quite a camera! With a Industar 50!

GeneW

02-20-2006, 05:51

My IIIf RD with Canon 50/1.8

http://www.pbase.com/gwilburn/image/52025045.jpg

Gene

GeneW

02-20-2006, 05:53

Dave's (dcsang) IIIc with Canon 50/1.8 at the last RFF meet, Toronto

http://www.pbase.com/gwilburn/image/55427660.jpg

Gene

dcsang

02-20-2006, 06:00

Ooooo :)

Thanks for posting that Gene :)

I STILL have that darn film in there - got to finish off that roll !! :)

Cheers
Dave

Film dino

02-20-2006, 06:09

....my carry everywhere camera

FrankS

02-20-2006, 06:12

FilmDino, do you use that Summitar without a hood? Any problems with flare? Any examples to show?

Film dino

02-20-2006, 06:20

FilmDino, do you use that Summitar without a hood? Any problems with flare? Any examples to show?

I always use a hood- the old barn door type which usually draws comments (what is that....) but is very effective- sorry no examples! Nice bokeh from the Summitar though.

David

GeneW

02-20-2006, 06:23

FrankS

02-20-2006, 06:49

My IIIa with Summitar. It's got a series filter holder on it that jsut slips over the lens, acting as a small hood. Not sure if this is sufficient yet. I need a shutter button collar. Anyone have a spare? :)

The IIIa is best with a 50 f3.5 Elmar. Other lenses bring the camera over a critical threshold for me for weight and compactness.

raid

02-20-2006, 07:20

I will soon post something here; I love these Leitz cameras from older times. They look so elegant and "respectful". Great photos so far. Let's see more.

Krasnaya_Zvezda

02-20-2006, 07:24

Here's my IIIc with it new covering. Someone wrote that their's was smooth it scary, well mine is too. So much so, I doubt that it is advancing the film. Quite a camera! With a Industar 50!

Looks great! Is the new covering from cameraleather.com, and if so, how was the replacement process? Did you do it yourself?

Rich Silfver

02-20-2006, 07:43

Sure, I ask and nothing happens, but Richie asks......

Mom, it isn't fair.......:(

I'm prettier :)

Btw - congrats on hitting 6,000 (!) posts :)

je2a3

02-20-2006, 08:02

Thanks to Rich and Jorge for an LTM forum! After seeing all those beautiful Barnacks, I could not help myself from uploading my two Leica IIs - a user and keeper.

Joseph

flashover

02-20-2006, 09:06

Here is a shot of my IIIc with a Jupiter 12 mounted. Lecia 35-135 viewfinder and Leica Ball head. I just bought a Summitar 50 f2 but it's in the mail somewhere.

FrankS

02-20-2006, 09:21

John, pretty! To quote the lyrics of a song, or was it an advertisement slogan: You've come a long way, baby.

Gordon Coale

02-20-2006, 09:26

Gene -- My IIIc and my grandfather's are one and the same. He gave it to me sometime in the early 1970s. I remember having shutter problems with it and getting it repaired in 1976. The repair didn't last long and I put it on a shelf until almost three years ago when a friend pulled my Leica down from its display perch. I was embarrased because of the layer of dust on it. Even more embarrassed when I discovered he was the owner of a Leica M6. He encouraged me to use it. I explained the shutter problem that had prompted me to put it on the shelf 27 years before and he said he could recomend some Leica repair people. That prompted me to clean the little Leica up the next day and run a couple of test rolls though it. What a joy to use! The controls are a little archaic (winder knob) but it felt like no other camera I've used. Nothing automatic on this sucker. I had been shooting a digital camera for 5 years and was tired of the "automatic" features that get in the way. Unfortunately the test rolls showed the shutter problems were still there and that there were now pinholes in the shutter curtains. It was another year and a half before I discovered the FSU cameras and bought a Zorki 6 and a FED 2 and then discovered RFF. Then a while back Richard Black mentioned that Oleg did a CLA on his Leica and that was something I could afford so it was Oleg that finally brought it back to life. It was a long time on the shelf but now it lives in my coat pocket and goes with my everywhere.

OldNick

02-20-2006, 09:34

I posted my IIIa last night. I thought I would add some more gear today to show the variety of Leica and other LTM gear one can accumulate over the years. The first is my Leica IIIf with 5cm Summitar. The second is a Steinheil Culminar 85mm/2.8 lens that works great as a substitute for more expensive Leica glass. Third is an Imarect finder and Leica locking cable release. Last is the controversial leader template. I'm a believer in using the template.

rover

02-20-2006, 09:59

OK, now I am getting itchy again.

By shopping around I have concluded that the prices of post war IIIc and BD IIIf cameras are about the same. Now, the IIIc has issues with chrome loss and the IIIf has shutter issues?

Well, I am still convinced I need one. Any sellers out there? Bright viewfinder, contrasty RF patch, good shutter, doesn't have to be a beauty queen......

doubs43

02-20-2006, 12:06

I threw this together quickly so it's not the best layout in the world. I had hoped to have my IIIa in hand before displaying my screw-mount Leicas but this thread was too good to pass up.

In front is the Leica that started it all..... a Model I from 1930.

Second row, L-R: Model III; Model IIIb with E. Leitz NY syncronized base & flash unit. It's also wearing a VIDOM finder which preceeded the Imarect; Model IIIc

Third row, L-R: Model IIIf Black Dial; Model IIIf Red Dial & a Model IIIf Red Dial, Self-Timer. The IIIf RDST is one of the last 1,000 made in 1956.

Scattered around are various lenses from 35mm ~ 135mm. All are screw-mount.

Not displayed are my off-brand lenses and my additional Leitz accessories.

Walker

SteveM(PA)

02-20-2006, 12:31

Sweet granny's spatula!!!!!

back alley

02-20-2006, 13:32

suddenly...joe feels inadequate...

OldNick

02-20-2006, 15:38

In front is the Leica that started it all..... a Model I from 1930.

Second row, L-R: Model III; Model IIIb with E. Leitz NY syncronized base & flash unit. It's also wearing a VIDOM finder which preceeded the Imarect; Model IIIc

Third row, L-R: Model IIIf Black Dial; Model IIIf Red Dial & a Model IIIf Red Dial, Self-Timer. The IIIf RDST is one of the last 1,000 made in 1956.

Scattered around are various lenses from 35mm ~ 135mm. All are screw-mount.

Not displayed are my off-brand lenses and my additional Leitz accessories.

Walker

Walker,
I've seen your references to your LTM collection before, but had no idea it was so extensive. Congratulations on putting it all together.
The handbook for your flashgun/synchronizer is ready for mailing.
Jim N.

doubs43

02-20-2006, 15:41

Walker,
I've seen your references to you LTM collection before, but had no idea it was so extensive. Congratulations on putting it all together.
The handbook for your flashgun/synchronizer is ready for mailing.
Jim N.

Thanks, Jim. The IIIb doesn't show as well in that picture as I'd like but you can see what I was speaking of. I do have the connecting cable too which I didn't hook up for that shot.

Walker

ClayH

02-20-2006, 15:49

Here is a real favorite. And Peter at CRR is really the best when it comes to giving you back a brand-new fifty year old camera!

Nikon Bob

02-20-2006, 15:53

A big thank you to Rich and Jorge for offering this new LTM forum. These represent my interest in Barnack cameras. The top is a IIIf with a 50mm F3.5 uncoated Elmar, on the left a IIIc with a 35cm F3.5 coated Summaron and on the right a IIf with a 5cm F2 Summitar. All are interesting to use and very smooth in function.

Nikon Bob

Bob

02-20-2006, 15:53

Walker,

That's what I call a real 'lazy-Susan'.

Now let's see.....I'll have one of thoes, and one of....

They are ALL beautiful. Very nice. You should be very proud.

Bob

doubs43

02-20-2006, 16:09

Here is a real favorite. And Peter at CRR is really the best when it comes to giving you back a brand-new fifty year old camera!

Clay, that is one of the prettiest IIIf Leicas that anyone could possibly imagine! I really like the look in black.

Walker

doubs43

02-20-2006, 16:12

ClayH

02-20-2006, 16:16

Peter is quite amazing. He resilvered the mirror, and gave the whole thing a complete overhaul. It really is like getting a new camera. And I especially like the paint scheme where he keeps the knobs in chrome. He calls it 'chrome jewelry'. Check out some of his other work:

http://www.angelfire.com/biz/Leica/page3.html

Clay, that is one of the prettiest IIIf Leicas that anyone could possibly imagine! I really like the look in black.

Walker

Nikon Bob

02-20-2006, 16:32

Bob, all three appear to be in pristine shape. VERY nice indeed.

Walker

Thanks, they are in nice condition. The IIIc suffers from the poor post war chrome syndrome and has some pits. Nothing major but it is there.

Nikon Bob

raid

02-20-2006, 16:57

VictorM.

02-20-2006, 17:08

Here's a quick snap of the IIIf I've owned and used since 1969. I still have the Nikkor 50/2 that I originally bought in 1969 because I couldn't afford a 'real' Leica lens. I bought the Summitar last year.

SteveM(PA)

02-20-2006, 18:11

I'll raise my camera, too. It is a '54...here with 'cron and Jupiter 9. There's no camera I'd rather own. Although the vulcanite stinks...or maybe it's me...

Thanks Jorge :)

julianphotoart

02-20-2006, 18:26

IIIc from, I believe, 1946, and Summitar. Limited to use in high-contrast situations because the rangefinder patch is so dim. Totally accurate though -- amazing.

FPjohn

02-20-2006, 18:30

Hello:

There it is to the left-IIIb* with a Canon 50mm f2.8. It sports a 25mm CV Skopar most of the time.

yours
Frank
* October-December 1939

ray_g

02-20-2006, 18:39

Here's my faithful IIIF, Summar with yellow Leitz filter, CV 50mm brightline (awesome) finder, and a couple of my home made leather wrist straps.

This goes in a small kit with my Summaron 35/3.5 + SOOGZ (semi-hood ;) ), 90/4 elmar, 35/85 combo brightline finder, A36 red, yellow and orange Leitz filters, FIKUS and tiny digisix meter.

back alley

02-20-2006, 18:48

who knew there were so many barnack freaks here!!!?

VictorM.

02-20-2006, 18:51

Here's my other ltm camera. A Barnack- ;) - Canon IIf, synched for bulbs, with a 50/3.5 Serenar.

ray_g

02-20-2006, 18:52

I may be mistaken, but I seem to find that these old cameras need less servicing than their M brethren. How many of you "barnack freaks" have found a need to have your camera serviced?

VictorM.

02-20-2006, 19:00

My IIIf has needed two cla's in 37 years.

richiedcruz

02-20-2006, 19:00

Here is an old picture of my IIIC.

Richie

Nikon Bob

02-20-2006, 19:40

I may be mistaken, but I seem to find that these old cameras need less servicing than their M brethren. How many of you "barnack freaks" have found a need to have your camera serviced?

I have had both the IIIc and IIIf overhauled and the RF mirror in both replaced. I don't think they had anything done to them by previous owners. Not sure though, but if it is that is not a bad record for mid 1950's cameras.

Nikon Bob

back alley

02-20-2006, 20:11

Here's my other ltm camera. A Barnack Canon IIf, synched for bulbs, with a 50/3.5 Serenar.

that's so much prettier than the leica barnacks...;)

je2a3

02-20-2006, 20:44

I may be mistaken, but I seem to find that these old cameras need less servicing than their M brethren. How many of you "barnack freaks" have found a need to have your camera serviced?

Nice IIIf, ray! I don't think my BD IIIf was CLA'd 8 years ago when I acquired it but it still works great. My Leica IIs were acquired "as-is" so I did my own CLA. I also have a IIIa that works fine except the 1/8 speed is intermittent must be a pallet in the slow speed escapement that I need to learn how to fix. OTOH, my M6 from the early 90s has been to Sherry twice, once for light leaks and then something went funky with the framelines after a trip to the tropics. The Barnacks are just simpler designs so there's less that can go wrong as long as they are cared for.

Joseph

doubs43

02-20-2006, 21:13

that's so much prettier than the leica barnacks...;)

Joe, that's the same as saying a copy of the Mona Lisa is prettier than the original.

Didn't I read only the other day that you've just bought a Barnack Leica? Hummm? ;)

Walker

back alley

02-20-2006, 21:26

it's an m3 that i traded for.
i did have a canon lll and a canon ivsb for a while though.

and i do think the canon is prettier but that's very subjective eh?

joe

reagan

02-20-2006, 21:47

My 1935 Leica.3 w/ Industar.50

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c138/CVBLZ4/GoK/9fee88ad.jpg

Former owner, RFFdude JimG, sent me this pic of his dad using this camera (http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=17806&page=1) with a 90 degree finder selfy taken in 1955. Pretty cool. :cool:

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c138/CVBLZ4/GoK/JimGsdad.jpg

Honus

02-20-2006, 21:51

My IIIc fitted with the vc 25mm Skopar and brightline finder. The lens and finder came from Gene, who traded for it with Sockeyed. As you can imagine, the lens has many interesting stories to tell ;)

Robert

Rich Silfver

02-20-2006, 21:51

Walker, that simply a stunning collection and Nikon Bob those cameras look like they are in amazing condition. Nice!

OldNick

02-20-2006, 21:53

I may be mistaken, but I seem to find that these old cameras need less servicing than their M brethren. How many of you "barnack freaks" have found a need to have your camera serviced?
Ray- I've had my Summitar serviced because the aperture ring got stiff, but my IIIa and 5cm/3.5 Elmar have not been in a shop since I purchased them in 1952. To be truthful, the shop owner said the curtains were new when I bought the camera. The IIIf is newer to me, but I've never had it serviced.

I can't say as much for a couple of Leica lenses that I've tried and sold. A 73mm/1.9 Hektor was a disappointment, and I knew of no one doing CLAs at the time, so I traded it. A 50mm/1.5 Summarit was worn out when I got it, and I got tired of trying to deal with it. Otherwise, Leica gear has held up quite well.

Rich Silfver

02-20-2006, 21:55

Here is an old picture of my IIIC.

Richie

Richie, nice setup - how do you find using the RASUK/RASUL sportsfinder? Pain in the ass? Fun/Easy?

Rich Silfver

02-20-2006, 21:56

that's so much prettier than the leica barnacks...;)

Hm, can we ban our moderator from this forum? ;)

Didn't you by the way get rid of your IVSB? ;)

wlewisiii

02-20-2006, 22:10

Gotta sneak in here and support joe. To me, the finest Barnacks ever came from Canon... The single VF/RF is just much more esthetically pleasing to me as well as the far easier to use take up spool. The original was a truely great moment. But some, like Canon, took it as a baseline and ran like a bat out of you know where to turn thiers into somthing even greater.

But, yes, he's right that it's very subjective. To me, the nicest Barnack ever made was the Canon IVSb. But, then, I actually owned one of those... :D :D :D

William

doubs43

02-20-2006, 22:30

it's an m3 that i traded for.
i did have a canon lll and a canon ivsb for a while though.
and i do think the canon is prettier but that's very subjective eh?
joe

Just yankin' your chain a little Joe. :D

To tell the truth I owned a Canon RF some 30 odd years ago when I was in Korea but it had a problem and I traded or sold it. I probably should have kept it for repair when I came back to the States but it didn't seem important at the time. I don't recall the model now but it was an early one.

Beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder which makes the world go around. Where would we be if everyone thought the Kodak Instamatic was the prettiest camera in the world?

Walker

rover

02-21-2006, 02:40

Off to check PN for any over-night FS ads.

Paulbe

02-21-2006, 04:50

Hi Walker--and WOW! That's some collection! Beautiful. Be worth a drive to Byron just to see it!
Paul in Atlanta

VictorM.

02-21-2006, 05:57

"that's so much prettier than the leica barnacks..."

To avoid further controversy, I have now inserted a smilie into the original post. And to be perfectly clear, I think they're both good lookin' pieces of machinery.

back alley

02-21-2006, 05:58

Hm, can we ban our moderator from this forum? ;)

Didn't you by the way get rid of your IVSB? ;)

gee, i hope not!!

and yes, i did sell the ivsb. i started to feel the collector's urge and having both the lll & ivsb i feared a whole new direction in spending...so i got rid of them both.

same happened with my short lived relationship with a kiev. i really liked that camera and was afraid i would start to collect bodies and lenses and eventually start in on contaxes.
i could not afford the temptation, literally.

at least with screwmount and m i can add an adapter and still have full use without buying more lenses etc.

AGN

02-21-2006, 08:54

Oh, okay, Leica IIIa 1936, year of Oscar's death. 50mm, f3.5 Red Scale Elmar.

doubs43

02-21-2006, 09:24

Hi Walker--and WOW! That's some collection! Beautiful. Be worth a drive to Byron just to see it! Paul in Atlanta

Thank you, Paul. Whenever you're down this way, or plan to be, let me know. I'm only about 2.5 miles off of I-75. You're always welcome.

Walker

reagan

02-21-2006, 10:24

Ergo

02-21-2006, 10:26

A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. --Sir Winston Churchill

Mike Kovacs

02-21-2006, 10:29

Hey, how did this get in there.....

Why not start up a flame war, circa 1938 style :)

Paulbe

02-21-2006, 11:23

Hi again Walker and thanks! Maybe we can meet up too at the Wing's "tent event" on 1April...there might actually be four of us there---you, Barry (who just bought a really nice M2/50 'cron from Mike), Rob and me...who knows---could be the formation of the deep South mega-RFF group---:-) :-)
Paul

lushd

02-21-2006, 11:28

Just yankin' your chain a little Joe. :D

To tell the truth I owned a Canon RF some 30 odd years ago when I was in Korea but it had a problem and I traded or sold it. I probably should have kept it for repair when I came back to the States but it didn't seem important at the time. I don't recall the model now but it was an early one.

Beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder which makes the world go around. Where would we be if everyone thought the Kodak Instamatic was the prettiest camera in the world?

Walker

It'd be great! People would pay $500 for a basic plastic camera and Leicas would go for $5 with only 2 or 3 bids on Ebay. Somebody in Russia would start selling Smena 8s or Cosmic Symbols with Nazi markings for silly money claiming they were copies of original Kodaks.

AGN

02-21-2006, 12:06

AGN, very nice. Is your cover black or a dark brown? Looks really great. I have a couple of covers coming from Aki, but undecided which I'll use. .... I also don't think this thread is going to be very good for helping some of us in our battle with GAS. :(

Thank you very much.
The vulcanite on the camera is Jet black, and appears that way on my monitor. Anyone else see it as dark brown?
Art

captainslack

02-21-2006, 12:57

Here's my Leica IIf with Elmar 3.5. My favorite shooter by far, even if it does scratch up my glasses. ;)

Rich Silfver

02-21-2006, 13:03

Oh, okay, Leica IIIa 1936, year of Oscar's death. 50mm, f3.5 Red Scale Elmar.

I've heard about - and seen ads for - the red scale Elmar.
Are there any optical differences in the red scale Elmar vs non-RS Elmars?

je2a3

02-21-2006, 13:09

I've heard about - and seen ads for - the red scale Elmar.
Are there any optical differences in the red scale Elmar vs non-RS Elmars?

Supposedly the red scale had lanthane in the glass elements [derived from Summicron 50 R&D] which gave it a flatter field especially at wider apertures. There were some black scale Elmars predating the red scale that had lanthane glass, look out for the f22 minimum aperture.

Joseph

reagan

02-21-2006, 13:45

Thank you very much.
The vulcanite on the camera is Jet black, and appears that way on my monitor. Anyone else see it as dark brown? ArtNaaa. Count it as the green background playing tricks on old eyes, Art. Nice photo of a really nice camera and that lens is a beauty. I'm new to Barnack waters, so tell me about the red lens on the VF. I've seen it before, though rarely, and always wondered... what's it called? what's it for? etc. http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/images/icons/icon5.gif

laptoprob

02-21-2006, 14:06

They are called Okaro /14058 Orange Rengefinder Filter, for Leica models IIc, IIf, IIIb, IIIc, and IIIf. This small slip- on orange filter was used to improve the contrast between the two rangefinder images. They were particularly recommended for artificial light.

I tried it out with a piece of slide film I mistook for BW film. Orange filter produced a very orange cast. I will keep it on the Bessa T I think, but not on the IIf. It makes the finder a little darker ofcourse, and while enhancing contrast I find myself searching more for bits to focus on.
My rangefinder spot is a little yellower anyway, so I have a little more contrast.

cheers, Rob.

AGN

02-21-2006, 15:26

Naaa. Count it as the green background playing tricks on old eyes, Art. Nice photo of a really nice camera and that lens is a beauty. I'm new to Barnack waters, so tell me about the red lens on the VF. I've seen it before, though rarely, and always wondered... what's it called? what's it for? etc. http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/images/icons/icon5.gif

Thanks again. It appears that your question has been answered quite well, I can only add that, in the case of a IIIa, the orange filter is called an ORAKO. It is approximately 10mm in diameter. The OKARO is slightly larger and will not fit the III/IIIa.

Best, Art

Krasnaya_Zvezda

02-21-2006, 18:53

The old and the new.... my 1937 III with Summarit, shot with my Digilux 2.

reagan

02-21-2006, 21:09

Ah, yes. Thanks Rob and Art. I remember reading the "OKARO / ORAKO" discussion in the last couple of days here. May have to add the ORAKO to my "List." http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/images/icons/icon12.gif

Rich Silfver

02-21-2006, 21:12

I swear something is not wired correctly in my mind. I seem completely unable to remember which bodies the ORAKO vs OKARO fits.

richiedcruz

02-21-2006, 21:39

Richie, nice setup - how do you find using the RASUK/RASUL sportsfinder? Pain in the ass? Fun/Easy?

It was annoying at first, because of the little peephole that you are supposed to look through; but, after playing with it for a while, I found that just looking through the center of the framelines and leaving the peephole part of the finder down is good enough most of the time. I do not even have to bother to put my face close to the camera. No more scratched glasses-ever :D

Richie

SolaresLarrave

02-21-2006, 22:01

This is some thread... and, like Ralph, I wanna know how is that all threads Rich starts are so successful? :(

Heck, I'm glad they stay!

Now, gentlemen, before I fall for these, I must know what is the trick with these cameras: when do you change the shutterspeed? Is it BEFORE or AFTER advancing the film?

Please, remind me...

And thanks, Rich, for the great idea of a Barnack-Leica show-off thread!

In case you care... it was your M3 camera with hood photo that inspired me to get one and use it. Right now, it goes in my pocket every day! :)

Rich Silfver

02-21-2006, 22:05

In case you care... it was your M3 camera with hood photo that inspired me to get one and use it. Right now, it goes in my pocket every day! :)

Damn, knew I should had marketed that photo :)

rover

02-22-2006, 02:41

SolaresLarrave

02-22-2006, 02:52

Thanks a lot for your pearls of wisdom ;) , oh, Master of the 6000 posts!

Don't rest yet... I'm after you, with 3000! :D

(I had no idea about this rule being an old one... I think it makes sense and practice will help me remember it... just in case!)

AGN

02-22-2006, 04:25

Francisco, old rule of thumb, change the shutter speed after winding the camera. I don't know if it matters with the Barnack Leicas, and I don't think you have to with the later Canon knob winders, but better safe than sorry.

The shutter speed dial on the III/IIIa Barnack will not read correctly unless it is wound before setting.

Art

Richard Black

02-22-2006, 04:43

Film dino

02-22-2006, 04:55

:confused: I have a question about the ORAKO. I have a IIIc but I purchased the one that is designed for the IIIf/g, I think. However, if I reverse it it fits ok on the rangefinder side of the camera. Does this make sense? I have seen them position on either of the rangefinder "windows". To those who use them regularly, can you exchange them from window to window wil the same results? Does this make sense? :bang:

Richard
The IIIc & IIIf rangefinder & viefinder windows have identical diameters- so the OKARO should fit them all, though strictly the OKARO should go on the RF window.
Fitting to the RF window gives you an orange RF view with a clearer central patch; fitting to the VF window gives you an orangey central spot while the rest of the field is clear.
personally I find that the orthodox fit (over RF window) gives the best RF contrast & is probably more secure. But I think the best long-term solution for a fading RF patch is to replace the beam splitter & have the whole RF assembly cleaned at the same time.
Cheers
David

AGN

02-22-2006, 05:10

Richard
The IIIc & IIIf rangefinder & viefinder windows have identical diameters- so the OKARO should fit them all, though strictly the OKARO should go on the RF window.
Fitting to the RF window gives you an orange RF view with a clearer central patch; fitting to the VF window gives you an orangey central spot while the rest of the field is clear.
personally I find that the orthodox fit (over RF window) gives the best RF contrast & is probably more secure. But I think the best long-term solution for a fading RF patch is to replace the beam splitter & have the whole RF assembly cleaned at the same time.
Cheers
David

Leica made this filter as an accessory long before RF patch's started to fade. In the beginning it was made for those who simply wanted more contrast in the rangefinder window. It is true that it is sometimes used to improve a failing patch, but this is not an absolute. A perfect patch can sometimes look better to some with the use of the filter. I for one feel this is true. The biggest drawback of this filter can be the cost. It is often referred to as the most expensive accessory per ounce that Leica has made. That is not to say that you can't find one for a reasonable price.
Art

paulh

02-22-2006, 07:07

Here you go,

IIIG in hermes wannabe leather, SBLOO, Leicavit and a 35 Summicron Asph.
Cheers,
Paul

AGN

02-22-2006, 07:38

Here you go,

IIIG in hermes wannabe leather, SBLOO, Leicavit and a 35 Summicron Asph.
Cheers,
Paul

Paul, very cool. Were you able to find it this way, or was it a project?

doubs43

02-22-2006, 09:58

Here you go, IIIG in hermes wannabe leather, SBLOO, Leicavit and a 35 Summicron Asph. Cheers, Paul

Darn, Paul...... that's the only model III I don't own already and it's going to take awhile for me to save for one. You just HAD to post that one, didn't you?

(Drool, slobber..... and it's all colored envy-green!) ;)

Walker

photocrazy

02-22-2006, 10:32

my leica iiif+elmar 50 f2.8 :) :)

reagan

02-22-2006, 10:56

photocrazy ~ welcome aboard RFF. nice camera AND photo... err... photo of photoS. ;) ... anyway, well done!

paulh

02-22-2006, 18:17

Paul, very cool. Were you able to find it this way, or was it a project?

Hi, I wouldnt dare try something like that on a IIIg! I bought it from a seller in Venezuela and it came with the leather already. Wasnt in a good working condition when I got it so I sent it for a CLA. Works like a dream now.

I initially wanted to replace the leather with an original look a like but dropped the idea. It does look kinda cool :D

Cheers,
Paul

paulh

02-22-2006, 18:22

Darn, Paul...... that's the only model III I don't own already and it's going to take awhile for me to save for one. You just HAD to post that one, didn't you?

(Drool, slobber..... and it's all colored envy-green!) ;)

Walker

Hi Walker,

Sorry, thats the only Leica screwmount body I have ..... for now :D
Go get a iiig, its nice :angel:

Cheers,
Paul

kmack

02-23-2006, 17:57

Well as long as we are showing off. Here is my IIIF Black Dial, sporting a stunning black Jupiter 12 and Argus turret finder.

doubs43

02-23-2006, 18:09

Hi Walker, Sorry, thats the only Leica screwmount body I have ..... for now :D Go get a iiig, its nice :angel: Cheers, Paul

Paul, I wish I could afford one right now but the IIIg will just have to wait a little longer.

My IIIa arrived today and it's pretty nice for being 69 years old. The body is clean, the rangefinder contrasy and appears to be properly aligned. Speeds seem OK and everything is smooth in operation. The Summar lens has something on the front element like a kid with candy on his hands may have grabbed it. It was pretty much on the whole surface so I've been working on getting it off. I have a little more to remove before I'll be happy. Other than the stuff on the lens and the normal bright marks on the chrome finish, it's a very nice example. It's obviously been in storage awhile but had a roll of Ilford FP-4+ in it. I'll develope it later and see if there's anything on it.

Walker

pwnewport

02-23-2006, 22:39

Here are my LTM guys. Various bits of this humble collection will look familiar to some of you. Thanks guys. The swell 1.8 Serenar lens and the J-8 just came today!

Richard Black

02-24-2006, 04:36

KMACK,
Great set up as well as nice looking Leica. Is that you Waterman pen? One like that began my collection of those beautiful instruments.

kmack

02-24-2006, 05:31

KMACK,
Great set up as well as nice looking Leica. Is that you Waterman pen? One like that began my collection of those beautiful instruments.
Thanks and yes that's my "everyday" Waterman. Catholic schools in the 19(mumble-mumble)'s American South required that students use fountain pens. I never really got out of the habit. Actually, one of my favorites is the cheap plastic body fine nib Lamy. The Lamy is not as classey as the Waterman but it is a fine instrument with a flexable steel nib.

paulh

02-24-2006, 06:52

Paul, I wish I could afford one right now but the IIIg will just have to wait a little longer.

My IIIa arrived today and it's pretty nice for being 69 years old. The body is clean, the rangefinder contrasy and appears to be properly aligned. Speeds seem OK and everything is smooth in operation. The Summar lens has something on the front element like a kid with candy on his hands may have grabbed it.

Walker

It will be worth the wait! A IIIa and a summar is a darn good setup as well. Congrats! Hope you will be able to clean up the lens.

Paulbe

02-24-2006, 07:24

kmack---which Catholic school in the American South did you attend? I don't remember fountain pens as we were still using carving tools for writing---:-)
Paul

Richard Black

02-24-2006, 07:50

KMACK,
I attended a public school in the 1950's and learned how to write with a fountain pen, an old Sheaffer pen that was clear so you could see the level of the ink. But, and this is creepy, one of my favorite pens is a Lamy, red, Safari model. It is plastic and has a black nib that is made of steel. Great pen and great company, they replace the cap when it broke!

kmack

02-24-2006, 16:57

kmack---which Catholic school in the American South did you attend? I don't remember fountain pens as we were still using carving tools for writing---:-)
Paul
Notre Dame Academy in Libertlytown Maryland, a large name for a small 3 room parish school. Grades 1 thru 6 in the 2 rooms on the first floor and 7 & 8 on the second floor. It was home to the three School Sisters of Notre Dame who did all the teaching (God's own storm troopers).

But, and this is creepy, one of my favorite pens is a Lamy, red, Safari model. It is plastic and has a black nib that is made of steel. Great pen and great company, they replace the cap when it broke!

Not really, like rangefinder cameras, people who use and love fountain pens will tend to end up finding and using the same type of pens, Lamy, Waterman, Monte Blanc, Parker et. al. In this case the Lamy is a Canon QLIII and Monte Blanc would be a Leica :D

Paulbe

02-24-2006, 17:34

Kmack--well---this is reeeeal close as Maryland is JUST south of the mason-dixon line--so I guess it's OK that you're in the "American South"---:-) :-)
Paul

doubs43

02-24-2006, 17:52

Kmack--well---this is reeeeal close as Maryland is JUST south of the mason-dixon line--so I guess it's OK that you're in the "American South"---:-) :-)
Paul

Some will argue today that Maryland isn't really "the South" but anyone who grew up there in the 1940's & 1950's as I did would have no question about it.

Kmack, I graduated from Frederick High, Class of '62. I've been through Libertytown (Rt 26) more times than I can recall.

Walker

kmack

02-24-2006, 18:01

Kmack--well---this is reeeeal close as Maryland is JUST south of the mason-dixon line--so I guess it's OK that you're in the "American South"---:-) :-)
Paul

My family moved to Maryland when I was 6, from Rhode Island. It sure seemed South to me! :D

Kmack, I graduated from Frederick High, Class of '62. I've been through Libertytown (Rt 26) more times than I can recall.
Class of 62, then you remember the "curious" signs on the water fountains at "The Great Frederick Fair", you can't get more South than that.

doubs43

02-24-2006, 19:14

My family moved to Maryland when I was 6, from Rhode Island. It sure seemed South to me! :D
Class of 62, then you remember the "curious" signs on the water fountains at "The Great Frederick Fair", you can't get more South than that.

That's exactly my point. Crossing from PA into MD was going from one culture to another. It was no different than being in VA or farther South.

I grew up in Doubs - hence my screen name - but it's become so crowded in Frederick County that I couldn't live there now. I still have family and friends in that area but it isn't "home" any longer.

My father used his Leica and other cameras to record daily life there from the late 1930's into the 1990's. That's light years away from today.

Walker

laptoprob

02-25-2006, 07:05

OK, here she is. Don't be shocked, she is not properly dressed yet.
First how I received her, but at the first touch the vulcanite dropped off.
Middle pic shows the two screws (on the pressure plate) that hold the casing.
Last is the cleaned version and sporting the Quinon lens.
Waiting for Dan's strap lugs and Aki's leather.

Rob.

kmack

02-25-2006, 08:57

Last is the cleaned version and sporting the Quinon lens.
Waiting for Dan's strap lugs and Aki's leather.

Rob.
She's a cutie alright, post her again when you get her into that little black number from Japan.

(I just love Leica porn)

doubs43

02-25-2006, 09:26

Rob, excellent pictures and that will be a beautiful Leica when you finish it. I second kmack's request for more pics when it's complete.

Walker

OldNick

02-25-2006, 09:31

Middle pic shows the two screws (on the pressure plate) that hold the casing.

Rob.

Rob: How much trouble is it to get to the point where you can access the inside of the casing where the lugs are secured? I have a IIIa that needs to have one of the lugs tightened up.

Jim N.

laptoprob

02-25-2006, 09:52

She's a cutie alright, post her again when you get her into that little black number from Japan.

(I just love Leica porn)

No, no black! that is for funerals! My 'new' old girl will be wearing a tight kinky red suit! With a shiny chrome necklace.
Similar to what my M2 had, now in the hands of Jano.

I can't wait!

Rob

laptoprob

02-25-2006, 09:56

Rob: How much trouble is it to get to the point where you can access the inside of the casing where the lugs are secured? I have a IIIa that needs to have one of the lugs tightened up.

Jim N.

Not sure Jim, The IIIa may have more screws attaching the camera itself to the casing. Search Rick Oleson's site for details, he shows it all.
Tightening lugs might be difficult though, they are - forgot the word - riveted rather than screwed to the casing. Maybe you can do something with a hardening glue? If you don't, the hole will wear out and the lug will fall off.

cheers, Rob.

doubs43

02-25-2006, 10:01

Rob: How much trouble is it to get to the point where you can access the inside of the casing where the lugs are secured? I have a IIIa that needs to have one of the lugs tightened up. Jim N.

Jim, it's not too difficult. Remove the base plate & take-up spool. Remove the three front screws you'll see in the vulcanite and then the six screws holding the top plate - three front and three back. Remove the slow speed dial and then the underlying plate. Now carefully pull the casing downward to separate it from the top and shutter mechanism. Note the orientation of the bevel on the pressure plate and be sure it goes back together that way.

The lugs are riveted to the body casing so tightening them will require a punch and a form-fitting support for the casing so as not to deform it when you punch the lug. Making a supporting form of hardwood shouldn't be too hard.

Walker

rover

02-25-2006, 12:42

I really want a IIIc or IIIf.

doubs43

02-25-2006, 13:07

I really want a IIIc or IIIf.

Rover, those are the two most common models encountered so you should have no problem finding one.

You may want to look for the IIIf Black Dial or Red Dial or a late IIIc. The early post-war IIIc often suffers from flaking chrome as the materials available to Leitz wasn't as good as pre-war. My 1950 IIIc is unbelieveably smooth but the edges of the base plate have lost a little chrome. I use my Leicas so that's not a problem for me.

My IIIc appears below.

Walker

rover

02-25-2006, 13:19

Rover, those are the two most common models encountered so you should have no problem finding one.

You may want to look for the IIIf Black Dial or Red Dial or a late IIIc. The early post-war IIIc often suffers from flaking chrome as the materials available to Leitz wasn't as good as pre-war. My 1950 IIIc is unbelieveably smooth but the edges of the base plate have lost a little chrome. I use my Leicas so that's not a problem for me.

Walker

There are quite a few on ebay all the time. I find that they often are not described or demonstrated to my satisfaction, and if they are they sell for "too much," meaning for the same or more than a reputable dealer charges. I will keep my eyes open for a "bargain" for a little while longer, but have seen some that appear nice at some dealers who I trust to give fair assessments of their cameras. I mostly don't want to risk having to send one off for a service if I am paying the same price as I would if buying from a dealer a camera that is clean and working.

If a RFF member had a camera they were selling for a fair price then we could have a win win situation, I would feel good about the condition of the camera that I was buying and getting a "bargain" would not be as important. Unfortunately, you all like your Barnacks (unfortunately for me :angel: ).

I probably need to wait a few weeks before I act anyway to keep from getting ahead of my wallet.

photocrazy

02-25-2006, 13:41

CVBL24 BJ-,
thank you for your kind comments, posted below is my Leica M6. Though not screw mount, I like the Bresson's work very much.

photocrazy

02-26-2006, 11:43

Something new, something old; something big, something small; something west, something east :angel: :angel:

Gipsy

02-26-2006, 12:58

Leica IIIg. Pimp My Ride. :p

Rich Silfver

02-26-2006, 13:23

Rich Silfver

02-26-2006, 13:25

Leica IIIg. Pimp My Ride. :p

Damn that's a good looking kit Gipsy !

AGN

02-26-2006, 13:37

Gipsy,
One of the best I've seen, stunning.
Art

FrankS

02-26-2006, 14:06

In the back of my mind something tells me that the IIIc was a single die-cast body and that structurally it is supposed to 'feel' even more solid than the later IIIf for instance. Am I making this up or is really the case (I haven't fondled both models myself so I can't tell).

The single die body casting began with the IIIc making it and all subsequent models stronger than the earlier Leica models I, II, III, and IIIa.

Rich Silfver

02-26-2006, 15:29

Thanks Frank so I was somewhat right. So the single die cast structure was used all the way from IIIc to IIIg?

FrankS

02-26-2006, 15:39

That's right, Rich. The new construction method added a few millimeters of size to the cameras. I like my IIIa. Any your black II is lovely!

Rich Silfver

02-26-2006, 15:49

Thanks, but now I'm curious to feel how a IIIc 'and up' feels. :)

bob cole

02-28-2006, 13:31

JPEG jpeg If this works, here's a polyglot: A Tower 5L, with an advance lever; a 50mm, f1.8 Canon lens, a 40mm generic UV filter, a 50mm Leitz viewfinder and a Leitz mini-tripod...regards, bob

bob cole

02-28-2006, 13:37

JPEG here's a second view: [I still haven't figured out how to put both pix in the same message...regards, bob

reagan

02-28-2006, 13:40

JPEG jpeg If this works, ...Attachments don't open. http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/images/icons/icon6.gif

bob cole

02-28-2006, 14:26

JPEG If it works, here's a Polyglot: a Tower/Nicca 5L with advance lever; 50mm/f1.8 Canon; generic 40mm filter; 50mm Leitz finder and mini Leitz table tripod...

bob cole

02-28-2006, 14:44

if i can make this work a second time, here's a second view: JPEG

VictorM.

02-28-2006, 16:16

Bob: attachments are more easily added if you use the "Go Advanced" button, then scroll down to "Manage Attachments". Adding more than one image is just a matter of repeating the action.

raid

03-02-2006, 18:39

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=20462

Here is my Leica Standard. It is rarely found in Black.

raid

03-02-2006, 18:46

I know that this is not a Leica I/II/III camera, but it is their forefather and should be allowed "in".

Rich Silfver

03-02-2006, 18:48

Wow, looks like its in beautiful condition Raid - got any examples of how the lens performs?

doubs43

03-02-2006, 18:52

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=20462

Here is my Leica Standard. It is rarely found in Black.

Raid, I can't see the top of your camera due to the lens shade. Does it have a rangefinder? If it does and has a Standard serial number, it would have been converted by the factory into a Model II. My father's IIIa was a Standard that was factory converted but retained the same serial number followed by an asterisk.

I agree with Rich; it looks like a real beauty!

Walker

doubs43

03-02-2006, 18:55

I know that this is not a Leica I/II/III camera, but it is their forefather and should be allowed "in".
The Leica II and Standard were both introduced in 1932 with the II preceeding the Standard by some months according to my reference.

Walker

raid

03-02-2006, 19:47

Here are a few more shots of my black Leica Standard with the Elmar 5cm/3.5 and the Leitz viewfinder. It is a tiny light camera with great sleek lines. I am amazed how small the camera is.

raid

03-02-2006, 19:48

Raid, I can't see the top of your camera due to the lens shade. Does it have a rangefinder? If it does and has a Standard serial number, it would have been converted by the factory into a Model II. My father's IIIa was a Standard that was factory converted but retained the same serial number followed by an asterisk.

I agree with Rich; it looks like a real beauty!

Walker

Walker,
The camera has no viewfinder or rangefinder.

reagan

03-02-2006, 20:13

Very nice, Raid... and interesting. Two acces. shoes... one for VF and one for RF attachments I suppose? maybe? (Can't think of anything else that would fit that close together.) Is the Elmar near the same age and possible original equipment? Okay, enough questions ~ sorry. Ya did good. :)

raid

03-02-2006, 20:19

Hi, It just so happened that I got curious about using an old Elmar lens and a gentleman on PN had one for sale there, so I bought it. This was followed by an out-of-the-blue pm to me by another gentleman who read here in this website about the possibility that I let my mintish Canon VI-L go, and he sent me a pm offering a trade of some sort. We have until the end of this month to decide whether we both want to finalize the trade or reverse it. Unless I am mistaken, the Elmar also comes from the late 30's or so. Your guess that the two accessory shoes could have been meant for a rangefinder and a viewfinder makes a lot of sense. I have a rangefinder (German) somewhere ...

doubs43

03-02-2006, 21:34

Raid, the two shoes are interesting as already noted. I tried to make out the serial number which I THINK may be in the 1609xx range which my book identifies as a model I Standard. What the difference between a "I Standard" and a "Standard" is, I don't know and the book doesn't say. If my serial number guess is correct, it was made in 1935. Normally they were made with one shoe and a 5cm finder. Yours has been either modified or possibly special ordered like that.

Does your rewind knob pull up for easier rewinding? It looks like it does, judging from the size of the knob. The Standard rewind did.

Regardless, it's a very nice camera and should do very well. Thanks for the extra pictures.

Walker

raid

03-02-2006, 21:40

doubs43

03-02-2006, 21:54

Walker, The rewind knob comes out for easier rewinding, as you said, and you have the correct serial number. The owner of this camera did not say anything about the camera being custom made, but he told me that the black version is rare to find compared to the chrome version of the Standard.

According to my reference book, the first 5,0000 Standard models were made in black. They ran from serial number 101,001 ~ 106,000 and were from the date beginning 21.10.32 (21 Oct, 1932). I'm not certain how many Standard models were made but after the first run, the majority were made in chrome so black in your serial number range is not common.

The Standard was almost the same as the Leica I, Model C except for the pull-up rewind knob which it shared with the Model II that was the first model with a rangefinder.

Sold as only the body, the black Standard was coded ALVOO and with with the Elmar lens it was coded AROOG. Chrome models were coded ALVOO CHROM and AROOG CHROM.

Walker

Brian Sweeney

03-03-2006, 02:30

I only have one classic Leica screw mount camera.

It's spolied rotten.

Brian Sweeney

03-03-2006, 02:38

Above, Summitar (coated), Canon 50/1.8, J-3, Collapsible Nikkor 5cm/2, Elmar

Except for the Elmar, all of the lenses can be seen in the bottom portion of the main viewfinder. None of them are "bad", can barely be seen. The Canon 50/1.5 blocked less of the VF than any of the first four shown here.

More lenses on this IIIf, scroll down about 1/2 way.

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10098&highlight=nikkor+canon+leica+iiif+summarit

And a close-up of the Nikkor and Summicron.

rover

03-03-2006, 03:06

I think I may work on my problem today. I received a rebate check from some Christmas stuff I bought.

Brian Sweeney

03-03-2006, 03:20

Well at least you have some 50's to use on it.

The Canon 50/1.5 is perfect on the IIIc or IIIf.

My IIIf is actually a IIIc that was factory converted. This is the camera that I got in the brown paper "Grab-Bag" at a pro camera store for $50.

raid

03-03-2006, 07:26

One day (but not during March, 2006 !) I will try to buy a clean Canon 50/1.5 to check it out against my other 10-12 different 50mm lenses.

Brian Sweeney

03-03-2006, 15:50

One for sale right now, Kim Coxon here at RFF.

You will never get a deal like that again!

rover

03-03-2006, 16:02

Where????????????

rover

03-03-2006, 16:04

Oh, the 50/1.5. I was thinking IIIc or IIIf

Honu-Hugger

03-03-2006, 20:14

Gordon Coale

03-03-2006, 20:26

It's worth having it in multiple places.

doubs43

03-03-2006, 20:31

Alright, I've been ghosting around RFF forever but still may not know the rules; this shot is also on "Camera and Coffee." Is it OK to post it again? I'm just so damned excited after years of being a "Contax outsider" to finally have a LTM machine. However, if this is against the rules delete it and I'll take a new shot tomorrow :D.

No problem posting it again and that's a really nice looking outfit. I would point out, though, that it's "Camera & Coffee" and NOT "Camera & Cocktail"!! :D

Walker

Honu-Hugger

03-03-2006, 20:34

No problem posting it again and that's a really nice looking outfit. I would point out, though, that it's "Camera & Coffee" and NOT "Camera & Cocktail"!! :D

Walker
Oh my God, you must have thought there was gin in that glass (:D).

reagan

03-03-2006, 21:03

HH, them big yeller beans sure make weak lookin' coffee... :rolleyes: but the gear looks great! (Nice lighting too, BTW.)

reagan

03-03-2006, 21:11

I only have one classic Leica screw mount camera.Sweeney, that's got to be one of the cleanest Barnacks onboard here. Looks great!

Brian Sweeney

03-04-2006, 04:54

> Sweeney, that's got to be one of the cleanest Barnacks onboard here. Looks great!

This is how it came back from Essex. Before it went up, the RF image was unusable, had one shutter speed, and the chrome was "dingy". I was going to CLA it and sell it. It came back like this, crystal clear viewfinder, perfect split image, and working great. Needless to say I could not sell it!

rover

03-04-2006, 06:56

I think I may work on my problem today. I received a rebate check from some Christmas stuff I bought.

My found money is still in hand, I was out bid... :(

There is another cutie closing tomorrow though, so I will give it another shot.

Gordon Coale

03-04-2006, 09:18

Yesterday my 35mm rangefinder kit was completed (bodywise) with the arrival of a Zorki 3M (http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showpost.php?p=244129&postcount=2836). On the right is my Grandfather's Leica IIIc. The 35mm Jupiter 12 has been living on it and won't leave. When it's cousin who has been taking steroids, the Zorki, became available I couldn't resist. It's going to be the body for my 50mm lenses with that big viewfinder. When I first looked throught the viewfinder I thought there must be some mistake. This has a telephoto viewfinder. I've been shooting the J12 long enough that 50mm looks like a telephoto now. I have the I-50 and Summitar, which still needs a CLA. I have a late Jupiter 8 on it now but darkavenger is sending me a Zorki 4 (http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=19098) with a tabbed J8 that will move to the 3M. (The Zorki 4 will be a birthday present for my son.) The Red FED 2 has an 85mm Jupiter 9. It's very stiff but Kim Coxon's repair manuals (http://www.pentax-manuals.com/repairs.htm) have encouraged me to try and lube it myself. (Pray for me.) I have one of my new single point split ring neck straps (http://www.electricedge.com/gordy_s_straps/store/neck-split-ring/index.htm) on the FED that lets it hang vertically. The Leica lives in my right coat pocket and the Zorki in my left.

Honu-Hugger

03-04-2006, 09:24

A lovely trio Gordon, and nice that you still have your Grandfather's camera. Where did you have the covering done on your FED 2? It looks great!

Gordon Coale

03-04-2006, 09:34

Honu-Hugger -- It's Red Croc Emboss from Aki Asahi (http://www.aki-asahi.com/store/). I traded Fedzilla-Bob for it with one of my early wrist straps (natural leather with white thread) and when he said he would buy one if I could make it black with black thread I did and gordy's camera straps (http://www.electricedge.com/gordy_s_straps/) was born.

reagan

03-04-2006, 11:11

Great group Gordy. Lookin' good. Meter looks at home on the 3M and a nice set of lenses. The Jupiter.8 will fit right in.

flashover

03-04-2006, 15:03

Ok I feel complete now. I have my Summitar f=5cm mounted on y IIIc topped off with my Leica 35-135 viewfinder.

back alley

03-04-2006, 15:58

nice outdoor shot john.
the finder looks as big as the lens.

Honu-Hugger

03-04-2006, 20:04

Canon 7 with 50/0.95...it will be interesting to compare this lens with the 58/1.2 NOCT Nikkor.

Paulbe

03-05-2006, 12:56

Doug---you have a Noct-Nikkor?
If so would you please post a side-by-side shot with the 0.95?
Maybe on another thread.
Haven't seen a Noct in some time...
thanks!
Paul

Honu-Hugger

03-05-2006, 13:22

Doug---you have a Noct-Nikkor?
If so would you please post a side-by-side shot with the 0.95?
Maybe on another thread.
Haven't seen a Noct in some time...
thanks!
Paul
I was going to mount this on an Alpa Model 8 just to keep this RF related (SLR with RF focusing) but at the last minute I remembered that you can not use the Alpa/Nikon adapter on the Model 7 and 8 cameras -- a pin will lodge in the body mount and you can not remove the adapter. So here is the NOCT on one of my favorite under-rated Nikons, the Nikkormat FT3.

raid

03-05-2006, 16:25

Paulbe

03-05-2006, 17:00

Thanks Doug! Your cameras are certainly well-endowed!
Paul

Honu-Hugger

03-05-2006, 17:40

Thanks Doug! Your cameras are certainly well-endowed!
Paul
If the emphasis is on girth rather than length the Canon 0.95 could be a contender in Joe's "Threesome" thread...:D (although I'm not sure what to pair it with).

jkelly

03-05-2006, 19:11

I like Leica porn as much as the next fella. Here is my IIIa (1935), with 50/f2 uncoated Summar (1935), 50/f3.5 uncoated Elmar (1936), SBOOI finder and Leica M strap.

FrankS

03-06-2006, 14:57

Here's my IIIa with Komura finder, and jsut arrived Summaron f3.5 from Kyle.

scigeek

03-07-2006, 01:29

Hi.

It's good to find a legitimate reason to take and post an image of my 1940 111c.... :D

Honu-Hugger

03-07-2006, 08:47

Three very nice cameras and great shots!

lkgroup

03-07-2006, 13:25

Here's my IIIC cleaned and sold by Youxin Yee with a 35mm Canon finder that I got from Laptop.

The lens is a Voightlander Skopar 35mm 2.5.

Leo

einolu

03-07-2006, 15:36

Here is my Zorki 1 that I recently fixed up. I replaced the rf mirror, cleaned the camera a little and put on a leather cover. I like the camera a lot, its been on many trips with me, so I felt like it could use an update. It works great now!

laptoprob

03-08-2006, 13:46

Impressive, Nicolas! Lucky man to have such a beauty being passed on to.
Like your avatar too, BTW.

Rob.

Edit: where are my manners? Welcome to the forum!

reagan

03-08-2006, 20:12

lkgroup
einolu
NicolasD
Lookin' good ya'll! Great gear!

Someone please close this thread... I'm trying to resist GAS... :rolleyes:

Rich Silfver

03-08-2006, 20:20

Nicolas, that is a gorgeous kit...

laptoprob

03-17-2006, 07:11

I just dressed my IIf in a tight red leather dress but I am not sure. I liked the skin on my M2 better, it was more varied in colour. Both are Aki's wine red snake.
So I will play with het in red and see if love grows. The black beauty spot in place of the slow speed dial causes a voice in my head repeating: black - black - black is the traditional way, keep it like that.
Still, I'm not sure.

What do you think?

doubs43

03-17-2006, 08:30

Here's my IIIC cleaned and sold by Youxin Yee with a 35mm Canon finder that I got from Laptop. Leo

Leo, your picture shows a IIIf black dial Leica. Maybe it was converted to IIIf from a IIIc?

Walker

laptoprob

03-17-2006, 08:44

Walker, Leo's III looks more red dial than mine, it must be cleaner. Not like any black dial I know...
Nice to see the finder again, Leo!

lkgroup

03-17-2006, 08:58

You know Walker, when I got it from Youxin he said it had been convered from a IIIc to a IIIf and I never really new what was convereted so i called it a IIIc. How can you tell, what is different between the two models?

Rob, the finder matches really well on this camera. I use the 35mm lens a lot and when I use a 50 I just leave the finder on the camera. The only time it comes off is when I transfer it to use on one of my Kiev's.

leo

edodo

03-17-2006, 11:07

:bang:
It has a radioactive cron and a mint SBOOI.

doubs43

03-17-2006, 11:34

You know Walker, when I got it from Youxin he said it had been convered from a IIIc to a IIIf and I never really new what was convereted so i called it a IIIc. How can you tell, what is different between the two models? leo

Hi Leo,

The IIIf will have the flash connection on the back and the sync delay dial around the base of the shutter speed dial with the numbers from 0~20. The color of the sync delay numbers will be either black or red which will determine if it's a Black Dial or Red Dial. Unless the factory somehow made a mistake, the Black Dial will always have the old shutter speeds of 1/30, 1/40, 1/60 while the Red Dial will be 1/25, 1/50 & 1/75. Not only do the numbers in your picture appear to be black (to me) but your shutter speed dial on the front clearly says 1/30.

The IIIc and the IIIf Black Dial share a common shutter I believe while the Red Dial not only changed the shutter speed sequence but also has a "lighter" and improved shutter. In my opinion, there's little to choose between them and the Black Dial works just as well as the Red Dial.

Walker

doubs43

03-17-2006, 11:37

Here is my first leica screwmount but also my first vintage prewar camera! Charles.

Charles, I can't tell from the picture if your Leica is a III, IIIa or IIIb but whichever it is, it's a beauty!!

Walker

VictorM.

03-17-2006, 11:37

You know Walker, when I got it from Youxin he said it had been convered from a IIIc to a IIIf and I never really new what was convereted so i called it a IIIc. How can you tell, what is different between the two models?

Rob, the finder matches really well on this camera. I use the 35mm lens a lot and when I use a 50 I just leave the finder on the camera. The only time it comes off is when I transfer it to use on one of my Kiev's.

leo

The most obvious difference is the larger shutter speed dial on the IIIf. Then there's the synch ring under that, along with the PC outlet on the rear of the camera.

rover

03-17-2006, 11:58

I am going home, it should be there waiting for me. My Elmar is ready, I just need to screw it in. All I need is to load some TriX and head out of my door. It is a beautiful day out too. No reason to stay at work today, or, too many reasons to leave early.

FrankS

03-17-2006, 12:04

Ralph, you've joined the Barnack club?

edodo

03-17-2006, 14:34

Charles, I can't tell from the picture if your Leica is a III, IIIa or IIIb but whichever it is, it's a beauty!!

Walker

Hello Walker, it is a IIIa from 1936 according to the serial. It is in a surprisingly good condish for its age and especially all the screws are shiny and nowhere is brassy! I know I have a quite nice specimen, but I plan to paint the main body in darkgrey hammertone or black hammertone during my DIY CLA :D

rover

03-17-2006, 14:45

Ralph, you've joined the Barnack club?

It appears that way, see post #11, I am demo'ing Richard Black's IIIc. (I should just send a check tonight, there is no way I am not going to buy it.)

So, is is sooo small. In physical terms it is really not appreciably smaller than the Canon IV, but the smooth rounded ends and slightly shorter stature makes it seem tiny in comparison.

It is just as smooth as Richard described. Not perfect cosmetically, but very nice.

I screwed the Elmar on her, it is a very nice pair.

I have to order a Gordy wrist strap tonight, then the set will be complete right?

Rich Silfver

03-17-2006, 15:29

I screwed the Elmar on her, it is a very nice pair.

Ah, that should be on a t-shirt ;)

doubs43

03-17-2006, 15:50

Rich........ you're BAAAAAD!! :D

Walker

doubs43

03-17-2006, 15:59

Hello Walker, it is a IIIa from 1936 according to the serial. It is in a surprisingly good condish for its age and especially all the screws are shiny and nowhere is brassy! I know I have a quite nice specimen, but I plan to paint the main body in darkgrey hammertone or black hammertone during my DIY CLA :D

The IIIa is a really nice model and they surprise me with the prices they sometimes bring. A 1938 body sold for $160 last evening. I wish it weren't so close to tax time or I'd have been REALLY tempted!! However, I managed to snag one in rather sorry external condition last week - complete with a 50mm f/1.9 Serenar - for $110. I wanted it for parts to repair my late father's IIIa. It has a very contrasty rangefinder and the shutter is so smooth I've decided to keep it as it is and only replace the vulcanite that is practically falling off. I plan to post pictures of it sometime as I believe it may have been a WW2 US military camera at one time.

I'm pretty certain that you'll lower the value of your own IIIa if you paint it but that is your decision. Just keep in mind that they don't make the IIIa anymore so every one that is altered makes the remaining originals more valuable. I will say that the IIIa in hammertone gray or black will be one sharp camera!!

Walker

rover

03-17-2006, 16:43

Yup Rich, that is about exactly what I was thinking too. Good to see you in the gutter right next to me.

Brian Sweeney

03-17-2006, 17:23

> Brian: Did Essex also clean up the chrome?

Just saw this.

Yes, Essex cleaned up the chrome. It was "dingy" going in, I figured I'd get it in working condition and sell it. Came back looking like new. That was almost 15 years ago. It looks and works great.

Rich Silfver

03-31-2006, 21:14

Brian, so in theory Essex would be able to remove top plate scratches, etc on say a Leica M3 from, oh purely hypothetically speaking, someone had been using an MR meter on it.

Buze

04-06-2006, 01:25

Oh dear, my ISP just fixed a "routing hole" that prevented me from reaching this forum. I now wish they had not ! :D

I'm into Barnacks too, and I have a Leica IIIc + Summitar in the post (from Germany). I decided to get a "real one" after having so much fun with the russian clones.

Anyway, I'll "contribute" some porn in the form of my Zorki 3 with it's Jupiter 8... I just serviced and repolished the lens, thus the enphasis of the image on the phalic par of the camera :D
Can't wait to get the Leica !

JimG

04-08-2006, 21:25

I went to the camera show today in San Jose looking for a user Leica II. We got there late but I found what I was looking for at the 2'nd to last table (ser. #10098xx). Someone had it upgraded with a newer flash connection on the back behind the speed setting dial. The curtain looked pretty good there at the show but checking it at home I can see slight cracks in it. So if anyone can suggest someone who does curtain replacement please let me know. It even came with a Summar 5cm f2.

Gordon Coale

04-08-2006, 21:37

JimG -- Oleg (http://www.okvintagecamera.com/). He did a CLA and replaced shutter curtains on my Leica IIIc for $60. He quotes more on his site but usually comes in for less. Excellent!

JimG

04-08-2006, 22:01

JimG -- Oleg (http://www.okvintagecamera.com/). He did a CLA and replaced shutter curtains on my Leica IIIc for $60. He quotes more on his site but usually comes in for less. Excellent!

Gordon, How long did it take to get it back? Olegs in Russia right? I thought about him first since he comes so well recomended. JimG

Gordon Coale

04-08-2006, 22:04

It's about a month. He fixes it pretty quickly once he gets it but it's about two weeks out and two weeks back give or take a week or two. My IIIc came back way smoother then when it left.

je2a3

04-09-2006, 21:28

Hi JimG,

Nice acquistion, congratulations! I'd also endorse Oleg for curtain replacement on that unit.

Good luck and hope you enjoy using the camera soon!

Joseph

reagan

04-09-2006, 22:01

Buze ~ very nice Zorki.3 - looks well cared for. And a nice photo too.
JimG ~ congrats on a good find. Just what you were lookin' for, heh? Enjoy!

Bill Snell

04-10-2006, 03:29

111a (1936) with British glass and a seriously heavy Canon IV SB

remrf

04-10-2006, 20:46

My 1936 IIIa and my Dad's 1930's Vibroplex telegraph key. It's got nothing to do with the camera other than they are of a similar vintage and are both very precise mechanical designs. And I think they look kind of cool together.

My father used this key before the 2nd World War when he was a buck sargeant in the Army. Because he had a first class FCC radio-telegraph license and was very electronically savy he was sent to a special officer's prepatory school in New England just before the war where they commisioned him as a 2nd lt. in the Signal Corps and he landed in Italy as Eisenhower's Signals Officer. He was in Korea when I was born. He retired a Lt Col. in 1959. He died in 2000. He was an avid photographer and gave me my first camera ( A Yashica 44 TLR) in 1965.

Gordon Coale

04-10-2006, 20:57

That's some telegraph key!

remrf

04-10-2006, 21:03

That's some telegraph key!

For the uninitiated it's called a "bug" and before digital keys it was probably the fastest key to be had. It takes some getting used to however if one has only used a standard key. It moves sideways. Not up and down. One direction is dots and the other dashes. It is spring loaded so it will repeat on the dot side by holding the key to that side for the required number of dots. It is beyond my skill level which is pretty basic.

Correction. I think it will repeat in both directions. It's been years since I played with it.

physiognomy

04-14-2006, 10:58

I posted this in the Camera & Coffee thread, but I wanted to include it here as well for those that might be interested & missed it... Ok, it's not a Leica, but it is definitely as close as I'm going to get for quite a while! I recently bought this great camera from RFF member Dexdog... It was a really good deal! I currently only have fsu lenses in ltm, but hope to pick up a nikkor 50/2 or a collapsible leitz when I have saved some $$$

Peter

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/photopost/data/5349/Tower_Coffee.jpg

je2a3

04-14-2006, 11:12

Congrats! Nice to know I'm in good company since I recently got one also sporting an FSU collapsible. High quality workmanship, smoother operation than the FSUs.

Joseph

reagan

04-16-2006, 22:01

Tomorrow's shooter. If the rain quits, I'm taking the re-skinned Leica.III with Elmar.9cm out to test drive the Leitz finder.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c138/CVBLZ4/GoK/leica.jpg

je2a3

04-17-2006, 06:51

Tomorrow's shooter. If the rain quits, I'm taking the re-skinned Leica.III with Elmar.9cm out to test drive the Leitz finder.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c138/CVBLZ4/GoK/leica.jpg

Nice one there, reagan!

Joseph

Will

04-17-2006, 07:20

Reagan,

Looking Good!

I need to try a screwmount!

Will

kmack

04-17-2006, 07:32

Regan: Shiny, shiny pretty pretty....

Careful, the Zorkie's may be getting jealous.

reagan

04-17-2006, 19:04

Regan: Shiny, shiny pretty pretty.... Careful, the Zorkie's may be getting jealous.Shiny pic... it's my stupid Kodak Digicam, a freebie hand-me-down from my sister. It's got this horrendous, glaring, http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/images/icons/icon3.gif glow http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/images/icons/icon3.gif in every shot that I can't get rid of. joe calls my camera shots "romantic." ha! Anyway, like I said, the digi is a freebie so hey, glow away!

Thanks guys!

back alley

04-17-2006, 20:26

you could make a fortune with that digi-glow camera...

wlewisiii

04-17-2006, 20:52

Shiny pic... it's my stupid Kodak Digicam, a freebie hand-me-down from my sister. It's got this horrendous, glaring, glow

Heh. I know what you mean. My Digi is a cheap POS that I got because my step-mother believed it totally broken. It's a Kodak DC3400 and most of my shots have that same (#($&#(*&$ glow. Gotta get something better without actually spending any real money... :eek: :D

William

physiognomy

04-17-2006, 21:29

William,

If you are unhappy with your 'glowy' digi shots & don't want to spend much $$$ take a look at ebay... Some 4-5mp cameras have dropped to very low prices now (even new). The shot of my Tower was taken with a $75 barely used Rollei dt4000... I did get a good price, but this sort of deal seems to be available often.

Peter

egpj

04-20-2006, 07:32

I just got home and have been playing with my IIf. This is so beautiful and I am so glad I busted oout the dollars. I have been out shooting with it in between developing rolls from my last trip. I love using it and can't wait to finish off the roll and see how the photo's are.

raid

04-20-2006, 07:59

I will [hopefully] soon be able to post some photos of the Leica IIIc that is on its way to me. My Canon IVsb turned out to be fine; I did not correctly load the film and caused some jamming.

JimG

04-20-2006, 08:09

Glenn your IIIf looks almost new! Hope it's in as condition inside as well. Sadly my new to me Leica II had to go to to Essex for new curtains and CLA this weekend. Jim

egpj

04-20-2006, 18:55

It is a IIf and it is in very good condition. The lens does show cleaning marks though but all shutter speeds appear to be working just fine as advertised. I bought it here on the forum from a member. I love this camera and since I got back it is the only one I have used shooting about 15 frames so far. I can't wait to finish the roll off and see how we did. That little camera fits in my L2 Alice between the 2 MPs... I was just meant to have this little gem.

Jerevan

04-29-2006, 13:51

As my own little IIIf now finally has made it back from CLA, I guess it's time to post a picture of it. While it's been away, I have managed to get my hands on some filters ( yellow, green, red, blue and UV in 18,5 mm sizes) and a cable release (a Leitz one to my surprise). Hopefully, somewhere here's the camera in a somewhat fuzzy glory. (If I got it right...) :D

JimG

06-08-2006, 16:39

Done!! .....I think.

Rich Silfver

06-08-2006, 19:19

je2a3

06-08-2006, 19:51

Done!! .....I think.

Nice to finally see your LII, congrats!

Joseph

JimG

06-08-2006, 20:42

Thank's Joseph. Actually I still want to get a 1/2 case for my II from Luigi. I'm still hoping someday one of my fellow members here will want to sell their's.

Jerevan

06-09-2006, 03:20

Are those Leica 18.5mm filters?
[drool]
Yep, they are 18.5 mm filters, but not Leica ones. They are Kenko filters, inscribed "21.5 mm" which is the outside diameter. After using them (I only use the Y2) I have to say that it's still iffy to change apertures. It's not like I change apertures on a whim, to put it nicely. Good thing is I can't poke the finger onto the lens any longer. :) It would work nicely with a VALOO hood as the one you have.

EcoLeica

06-11-2006, 04:48

Ok i hope this reply works. Heres my setup. Leica IIIc 394377 with 50mm Summar. One of the finest cameras ive used (though i havent used a lot) and is a joy to take pictures with. Not bad for the $15 i paid for it

Marc-A.

06-11-2006, 06:28

I'm glad to introduce my beloved Leica III (with Elmar red scale) :)
Marc

c.poulton

06-11-2006, 06:43

My recently aquired IIIf with Leitz 5cm f2 Summitar. I liked this camera so much I bought a 5cm f2 Summicron and a second IIIf! (It was a fantastic price though...) Serious GAS attack that day! :) :) :)

photodog

06-11-2006, 07:31

Here's my latest shooter, a Canon VT which I got last year and a 35mm Acall lens acquired last month. The Acall is a forerunner of Komura. The latest photos in my gallery were made with this.

Rich Silfver

06-11-2006, 10:39

Eco, you paid 15 dollars for the Leica? Nice.. :)

OdDbaLL

06-11-2006, 12:15

1937 Leica IIIa / 3.5cm Elmar / VIDEO finder and...
an unopened roll of Agfa Isopan Rapid dated 06-1959 in mint condition :D

peterm1

06-11-2006, 14:54

I bought this Leica 111a a few years back, wearing a nice little coated Elmar 50mm f3.5 dated to around 1936. Obviously the Elmar had been back to the factory as they were not coated prewar. Even more obviously the camera had been back too. If you look closely you will see that it has the 111f flash sync dial coaxial with the shutter speed dial. It was upgraded, sometime in the 1950s I imagine using the Leica service to provide flash sync. Given this and the lovely condition of the camera it was obviously owned by someone who was as potty about it as me.

Here it is wearing an equally nice Summarit 50mm. I have a lot of fun with these lenses plus another Summitar 50mm, a Canon 50mm f1.8, an Elmar 90mm f4, a Summaron 35mm f 3.5 and a Hecktor 135mm f4.5. One day I hope to add a Summar to the family.

I am in hogs heaven with this kit.

back alley

06-11-2006, 15:03

that camera looks new!
very nice indeed.

...as potty about it as me... ???

joe

peterm1

06-11-2006, 17:34

OK back ally....I give in, I have checked out your site and you are more potty than me :^)

Very nice shots.

The 111a is indeed very clean. I don't know about it being as new but it would not be far off. Mind you, it did not come especially cheap but as these prewar Barnack cameras are my foavourite LTM cameras I was willing to get it while the getting was good.