Vivitar 35ES problem

[GregB]

Hi everyone. This is my first post so please be nice!

I've just bought a Vivitar 35ES from a camera fair, but on returning home I've realised that it has a problem. The meter responds to chenges in light levels, but it seems to read way too low. If I point it at a bright light bulb with the ASA set to 800 and the shutter speed set to 1/8, the aperture reads f11. This is way off right? I've checked the battery voltage with a multimeter and it reads about 1.5v. I thought I'd see what people thought before putting a roll of film through it. Does anyone have any suggestions? Is it worth having it repaired, and if so is there anyone I can send it to in the UK? It's a real shame because it's in great condition otherwise. My first visit to a camera fair too
Cheers,

Greg

[JoeFriday]

I just checked my 35ES, which I always use C41 b&w film in, and it has the same reading.. I've had some of my best shots taken with that camera, so I know my meter is good.. but the latitude of C41 film might be compensating.. either way, if you're planning to use C41 film, don't worry about it at all.. get out there and enjoy a truly excellent camera

[cbass]

It's grey and cloudy here today and using window light I set my Vivitar 35ES to ASA 800 and 1/8 shutter speed. Like Brett's, my camera's meter also indicated an aperture of f/11. Your camera is probably OK, Greg. f/11 and 1/8 @ 800 ASA seems about right to me.

I use a 1.5v silver cell battery and shoot print film only. The Vivitar 35ES is a sweet camera. It's my favorite tool for available light.

PS - Welcome to the fourm.

[GregB]

Thanks guys! I'll put a roll through it and see what happens.