1.25x or 1.4x magnifier?

[IkarusJohn]

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Hi Paul,

 

I ended up with a 1.25x magnifier as it was the only one available. If I spot a 1.4x, I will probably get one, as the 1.25x gives some improvement, but it's not great. Better than not having it, I guess.

 

Like you, I want this primarily for using my Noctilux and Summilux 75. Interestingly, Olaf's advice in another thread was spot on - the longer throw of both of these lenses made focusing easier. I also find that I rock backwards and forwards slightly to test the focus, and I have had no problems.

 

Certainly, the 1.25x helps. If the 1.4x was available, I'd have got that instead.

 

Cheers

John

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[Paul J]

Thanks John. Think I'm going to try out the 1.4

[01af]

Sorry to dredge up an old post but no real clear cut answer to the question of 1.4× magnifiers.

 

What's wrong with the very first answer?

 

 

I would like one to aid focussing my Noctilux 50 mm and Summilux 75 mm.

For a 75 mm lens you can use the 1.4×—albeit it's not really recommended. For a 50 mm lens you basically cannot. If you want to switch between 50 mm and 75 mm lenses without being forced to also switch eye-piece magnifiers, better just get the 1.25× which is required for 50 mm lenses and recommended for 75 mm lenses.

[Paul J]

 

What's wrong with the very first answer?

 

 

 

For a 75 mm lens you can use the 1.4×—albeit it's not really recommended. For a 50 mm lens you basically cannot. If you want to switch between 50 mm and 75 mm lenses without being forced to also switch eye-piece magnifiers, better just get the 1.25× which is required for 50 mm lenses and recommended for 75 mm lenses.

 

The first answer answered all my questions, thanks. The remaining discussing, however is where the problem is and most of the threads I've searched here have very mixed reviews about the benefits of them. Some people saying it makes the situation worse by reducing brightness and contrast. Some people not noticing the difference using them. Therefore no clear cut answers!

 

I tried the 1.4 out on my 50mm in the Leica Mayfair store. Seemed to work great, although the experience of trying it out was rushed as it always is in a busy shop. Any reasons in particular you say I should not use it for the 50? I have perfect sight but want to increase my chances of perfect focus wide open with the noctilux.

 

I feel like I should have one but not entirely sure.

Edited April 16, 2012 by Paul J

[Paul J]

Jaap, can you please elaborate on the contrast method being the most accurate?

 

I see the difference in contrast between the actual image and the rangefinder patch but I see there is an amount where the contrast is about right but still the two images do not overlap perfectly.

 

I'm imagining the magnifier will help as I feel myself using contrast to get it close but then actual and exact image overlap that makes for fine accuracy.

[kanzlr]

you could also try a Bessa T as secondary body for long lenses.