Canon F-1... To CLA or not to CLA?

canetsbe · 07-12-2012

Hey guys,

My dad just passed down his F-1 (second version) to me with either the intention of me keeping it or selling it for him. Since I'm a sucker for classic cameras like everyone else here, self-induced GAS has occurred and I've decided I'm going to start using the FD system again. The F-1 is in fairly dire need of a CLA. He bought it new in 1978 but probably only shot 100-200 rolls through it the entire time he's owned it (he also gave me his A-1 which he used far more often and is practically beaten into the ground). As you can imagine, the F-1 is in excellent cosmetic shape still except for a dent in the finder prism and a driver's license engraving in the film reminder slot.

My local repair shop quoted me $148 for a complete overhaul, but I'm seeing these cameras listed on KEH for about $159 in EX shape.... I'm conflicted as to what to do. I shoot mainly Leica so I'm really loving the feel of this camera's build and ergonomics and could definitely see myself shooting it a lot. I'm not a stranger to the FD system, one of my first cameras was a second-hand New F-1, and the lenses are pretty good. I guess what I'm asking is, what would you do in this case? Keep it and CLA, or sell it and buy a different one? The sentimental value factor is definitely in play, but from a logical standpoint, I can't decide.

hipsterdufus · 07-12-2012

CLA it and and enjoy your dad's old camera. Too many people are junking good cameras these days. $148 for a CLA, plus knowing that you kept your dad's camera seems well worth it in my opinion.

canetsbe · 07-12-2012

Thanks for the input, I think that's what I'll do. It's true that I also know it was never abused, and sat in a camera bag for the last 10-15 years. Seems worth it to me!

Sam Kanga · 07-12-2012

Hi Canetsbe

If he only ran a couple of hundred rolls through it, is there something else wrong with it - i.e. it might not need a CLA. As you know the F-1 was built like a tank (I think it was built from old tanks). Is there a concern other than shutter accuracy?

If you are concerned about the shutter accuracy, what I do is run colour transparency film through as a test roll - i.e. same static scene, vary the shutter speed a few stops + & - of what you determine correct exposure to be and send off to a reputable lab. In them old days I would do this with Kodachrome as the processing was fairly consistent.

I have 2 old Nikon F's from the early '70s - still right on!

Thx
Sam

Brad Bireley · 07-12-2012

I'd send it here...only $45.00 for a cla!
http://www.garryscamera.com/
I've used them many times.

canetsbe · 07-12-2012

Thx for your concern Sam. To clarify, I just meant that over the last 10-15 years the camera has barely been used; the light seals have gone, shutter speed selector dial is a little stiff, the mirror sometimes makes a slightly strange sound when shutter fires. Nothing is really wrong with the camera, just needs a little TLC to get it running smooth again. 35-year-old lubricants need a refresher.

canetsbe · 07-12-2012

Wow that's cheap. What's their turnaround time? I may just send the F-1 AND A-1 together.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brad Bireley

I'd send it here...only $45.00 for a cla!
http://www.garryscamera.com/
I've used them many times.

DNG · 07-12-2012

I live in Central Indiana, and "CameraRepairs" dot com. in Avon, Indiana is who I use.
Bob has been in repairing cameras for over 40 years. (expect Leica)..
He is very reasonable and has a 3-6 week turn around.

He has worked on many of my film cameras and lenses. He also does all major brands of Digital also.
Not sure on an Overhaul Price, which what it may need, (includes most repairs also) A CLA does not include repairs, typically, just, re-lub, Shutter re-calibration, and other adjustments to bring it back to specks.

His link is here

CameraRepairs dot Com

Sam Kanga · 07-12-2012

Hi Canetsbe,

Thanks
- yup, I guess you should have it CLA'd. Great camera!
I remember an old Pop Photo or Modern Photo article from the '70s of an F-1 that survived a fire. They had a photo of it - it looked burnt, but worked.

Sam

Brad Bireley · 07-12-2012

Quote:

Originally Posted by canetsbe

Wow that's cheap. What's their turnaround time? I may just send the F-1 AND A-1 together.

Last time I sent my A-1 in I had it back in a week!

loquax ludens · 07-12-2012

I would suggest Ken Oikawa for your CLA. He fixed up my new F-1, and he was very fast and affordable. I believe you'll find his phone number if you google or search this forum.

canetsbe · 07-12-2012

Thanks for all the input. I think I'm just going to take it to Kurt's in San Diego- Less hassle than having to ship/call/email/coordinate and I've used them before and they're great, but not cheap. They offer a 1-year warranty on your camera after it's been serviced which is the best I've found and is definitely worth something.

loquax ludens · 07-12-2012

OK, but you should really do a search for Ken Oikawa before you decide. You'll find nothing but praise.

sparrow6224 · 07-12-2012

I would not send an F1 to Garry's. People have had mixed experiences with that particular operation, more so than with any other reputable camera tech's photographers discuss online. His/Their real specialty used to be Minoltas but I'd be leery with a camera as valuable as an F1.

ChrisPlatt · 07-12-2012

The $159 body from KEH hasn't been CLA'ed either.

Chris

t.s.k. · 07-12-2012

To get the most of your F-1, I would highly suggest to have the tech modify the voltage to accept 1.55v silver oxide and recalibrate the meter while it's in for service. Last time I checked, Ken Oikawa charged a little north of $150 for the CLA and voltage mod. Bob Watkins (Precision Camera Works) is also a good option -- he started in camera repair while working for Canon in the 70s and his prices are comparable. Either can service an F-1 in their sleep

Mackinaw · 07-12-2012

Another vote for Ken Oikawa. Ken is a retired Canon repair tech who specializes in FD and FL Canon's. He also has a supply of NOS parts. Absolutely top-notch.

And yes, it will pay to have your Dad's old F-1 CLA'd. They don't make cameras like this anymore.

Jim B.

canetsbe · 07-12-2012

Well as it turns out, I didn't take in the F-1 yet. Still good to hear about all the options out there. I think I am going to give Ken a call tomorrow. The voltage mod is a good idea, the meter seems to be a stop or two off with modern batteries.

Still, I may send the A-1 to Garry's, as I will likely sell it. All it really needs (as far as I know) is the mirror squeal to be fixed and foam replacement.

agphotography · 07-12-2012

Btw if you're in SoCal, ken is located just north of me in Sun City, you could probably hand deliver it to him.

I was going to have my EF body restored by him, we spoke on the phone about it, but I ultimately traded away my FD kit before I had a chance to send it to him.

I think it would be absolutely worth restoring your fathers camera when you have it in hand. It'll last you forever.

rxmd · 07-12-2012

Quote:

Originally Posted by canetsbe

Still, I may send the A-1 to Garry's, as I will likely sell it. All it really needs (as far as I know) is the mirror squeal to be fixed and foam replacement.

You can do that yourself for like $10 in parts.

canetsbe · 07-13-2012

I'm not too far from you actually, I'm in SD. But the drive to Sun City is a bit far and not worth it in gas compared to what postage would cost. Plus it'll probably get there in a day anyhow.

I called Ken this morning and he told me to send it on over. I guess he'll just work his magic and call me for diagnosis / payment? He was very brief on the phone.

Quote:

Originally Posted by agphotography

Btw if you're in SoCal, ken is located just north of me in Sun City, you could probably hand deliver it to him.

I was going to have my EF body restored by him, we spoke on the phone about it, but I ultimately traded away my FD kit before I had a chance to send it to him.

I think it would be absolutely worth restoring your fathers camera when you have it in hand. It'll last you forever.

loquax ludens · 07-13-2012

Yes, he is generally brief. He'll call you. I think he called me with an price the day he got my camera.

canetsbe · 07-13-2012

I just wrote a note explaining what i want done and provided my contact info so i'll expect to hear from him early next week.

canetsbe · 07-28-2012

The F-1 just arrived back from Ken today, and it's really in nice shape. Mirror is quicker and quieter, everything is a bit smoother. And he adjusted it to take modern batteries. I can see this camera quickly becoming a favorite! I would highly recommend Ken for your F-1 CLA.

loquax ludens · 07-28-2012

That's good news. The F1 is a great camera, and Ken always does a super job keeping them running for us.