contrast enhanced rangefinder window/lens

[Wayne]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

Did Leica ever offer rangefinder contrast enhancement as part of Barnack model production,i.e. install yellow or orange lenses in the camera rangefinder during production?

[TomB_tx]

There was an accessory clip on orange lens for the rangefinder window. You see them on eBay now and then.

[Advertisement]

The Leica Q3 is available for pre-order at B&H Photo Video and Adorama

[Wayne]

Thanks, I have seen, and own, one of those. I was just curious if that has always been the only option, or if Leica every actually experimented with enhancing the contrast in the camera rangefinder.

[jerzy]

Some of early II have green/yellow right, front window

[willeica]

My first Leica II from 1932 had a very definite yellow tint on the rangefinder window but that seems to be less obvious since I sent it in for a CLA. It is now, however, much easier to focus with. My other 2 early Model IIs from 1932 also have yellow rangefinder windows but less obvious than the first one which I bought ; one of them is easier to focus with than the other. I have a black orange ORAKO from about 1935 and a post war chrome orange OKARO; both slip on filters. They do improve contrast but also darken the image a lot.  My own view is that a well maintained rangefinder window is all you need and it is not surprising that Leica dropped the in-built yellow filter.

 

William

[TomB_tx]

Youxin Ye replaced the beam splitter on one of my IIIf bodies with a multi coated unit. It is now the brightest and easiest to focus of my Barnacks. 

[Susie]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

I'd second Tom's comment.  When I had my 111f serviced a couple of years ago, Peter replaced the beam splitter and the result was truly a transformation.

 

Susie

[willeica]

Youxin Ye replaced the beam splitter on one of my IIIf bodies with a multi coated unit. It is now the brightest and easiest to focus of my Barnacks. 

 

I reckon that is what I got, as the difference was like night and day after the CLA. Yellowy mist was replaced with absolute clarity.

 

William

[lleo]

Good to know. My camera is very good but, wearing glasses, I'd have to try the multi coated beam splitter.

Edited April 5, 2016 by lleo

[David8]

The price of the Orako (if you can find it) is ridiculous! Perhaps the best interim solution is using developed film and cut a small circle and put it in the window nearest the rewind knob. For long term best change the beam splitter which will turn your rangefinder image from night to day, rivaling that of your M Leica. New beam splitters are available from nobby sparrow on eBay for $15.00 and provide great contrast. 

[romualdo]

Gus Lazzari (TLC Camera Repair) placed this contrast enhancing "ring" inside the rangefinder window (closest to rewind knob) - really does make a difference

Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here…

Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members!