Focus wheel on Kiev only with standard lens?

Philipp · 12-19-2007

I got my first non-standard lens for my Kiev 4a: the Jupiter 12. The Kiev-manual says: "Non-standard lenses are focused by turning their respective focus barrels, NOT the focus wheel"

So far, so good. But why? I just had to try it: I CAN focus the J12 by using the focus wheel, but I don't DARE to do so because of the manual.

Does anybody know why?

Thanks in advance!
Philipp

wolves3012 · 12-19-2007

I have a Jupiter 12 as well, mine focusses perfectly fine with the wheel. I think there are some lenses that don't, however. Use the wheel and don't worry about it!

Philipp · 12-19-2007

Hello wolves3012,

that sounds great! First, I couldn't get used the the Kiev focus wheel. And now I miss it on my Zorki 1... Although I scale focus a lot with the J12 it is fun to use the focus wheel. Plus it looks cool

Philipp

KoNickon · 12-19-2007

I think you have to be careful about the other lenses putting too much stress on the wheel mechanism, but if the lens turns smoothly, that shouldn't be a problem.

wolves3012 · 12-19-2007

Personal taste...I happen to dislike the wheel and rarely use it. I also find the infinity lock annoying so the Jupiter 12 disabling it is a bonus for me! The lock has only one use to me - for holding the bayonet still when I remove the 50mm!

When you mount the Jupiter 12, be sure it engages properly into the inner bayonet or else the RF will be a long way off from correct working.

wolves3012 · 12-19-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by KoNickon

I think you have to be careful about the other lenses putting too much stress on the wheel mechanism, but if the lens turns smoothly, that shouldn't be a problem.

My J-12 turns very smoothly off the camera but has tighter spots when mounted, so I think you're quite right there.

Philipp · 12-19-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by wolves3012

My J-12 turns very smoothly off the camera but has tighter spots when mounted, so I think you're quite right there.

Same with my J-12. Turns smoother when not mounted.

Dogman · 12-19-2007

I have two J-12 lenses. One is an older chrome model and it turns easily with either the wheel or by hand. The other is a more recent black model that is tight when mounted and can only be reliably focused by hand.

If the wheel can turn the lens easily and that's the way you want to use it, it shouldn't harm the camera.

kiev4 · 12-19-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by KoNickon

I think you have to be careful about the other lenses putting too much stress on the wheel mechanism.

Absolutely correct