Removing Leica Lens Focus Tab

[AndreasG]

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Sorry, I don' have any own experience how to remove the lens tabs. You may ask Leica locally or Wetzlar, in the latter case it won't come cheap. Or contact Leica repair shops in the US.

[Anbaric]

I like the tabs, but if I had this sort of query, I would start by emailing info@leica-camera.com (who are usually very helpful) though I don't know if you'll have any luck in this case - Leica may just regard the tab as an integral part of the lens, not to be removed at the whim of the customer. Otherwise, you could talk to an independent technician who could presumably remove it (and put it back again without damage if necessary).

[RobW0]

I find my finger now looking for the tab.

[TeeBee]

12 hours ago, Anbaric said:

I like the tabs, but if I had this sort of query, I would start by emailing info@leica-camera.com (who are usually very helpful) though I don't know if you'll have any luck in this case - Leica may just regard the tab as an integral part of the lens, not to be removed at the whim of the customer.

Thanks, yes, I spoke to the Leica store before posting here. The store couldn't be of much help as they have never had anyone ask for this. I believe that is quite obvious, as many Leica users prefer to have the tabs in place. I wanted to buy the lenses without the tabs. I will send a mail to Wetzlar and keep everyone posted on the outcome. 🙂 

[yukosteel]

Speaking of 11891 Lux 50mm ASPH, tab can be removed by unscrewing two bolts from the inner side of focus ring shell, it may be similar design on other Lux 50mm lenses. There is no real practical need to cover the bolt holes due to there is an internal ring wall behind them, though for aesthetic few bolts screwed outside will make better overall look.

It's highly recommended to perform tab removal by Leica (if they offer such service) or by trained technician experienced with Leica lenses. It's involving unscrewing numerous bolts of front area, that can be accidentally damaged if slightly different shaped screwdriver is used, leading to stripping the bolt head and making lens difficult to open without bolt drilling. Leica bolts have special markings on each head, and you can't purchase bolt replacement elsewhere. For experienced person removing tab from Lux 50mm ASPH would take probably 10min performing it accurately.

 

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[TeeBee]

I received some feedback from Leica. Leica can remove the focus tab for A$265, and I was informed the service will take 2-3 weeks. I need to send the Lens to Leica Australia (or the nearest Leica service centre) to get this done. It is also possible to perform the tab removal at the time of purchase. 

If I'd known this beforehand, I would not have purchased the Zeiss 50mm f/1.5 ZM. I love its classic rendering/character for the Classic Sonnar. I believe the 50mm 1.5ZM and the Leica Summilux 50mm f/1.4 can coexist in my bag. 🙂