Elmar-M 50mm f3.5 focussing

[Klassika]

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Hello,

 

I recently acquired a Elmar-M 50mm f3.5 from 1954. It's rather stiff while focussing, but it does the job. When I focus the whole front turns, is this normal? Because I also have a Summitar 5cm1:2 and a Summicron 5cm 1:2 and with these lensen the front doesn't turn while focussing.My second question is do I have to do something about the stiffness or will this improve when using the lens often?

 

Thanks in advance.

 

Léon.

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[earleygallery]

Yes the whole lens turns, it's a very simple design.

 

Stiffness is probably due to dried lubricants. It may improve with some use but you could also try smearing a little (I mean little) vaseline on the helicoid, or ideally have it taken apart, cleaned and lubricated.

[tobey bilek]

Also try a a wee bit of Ronsonal lighter fluid to clean the threads of old dried lub and use some wheel bearing grease from your car to relube as this is high temp grease that will not spread around. Use trace amounts. I have done this in an emergency and it worked well for years.

 

 

Or send to DAG Camera Repair or Golden Touch Camera Repair.