Coding process for Zeiss 15

[Guest leicawanabe]

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Coding the Zeiss 15 has just become very easy and practical.

 

The image titled code3 shows you the necessary tools and the stickers I made with the setup.

 

Use an architect’s template for circles. Make sure to use the 1.5” diameter

 

Use the DYMO Black on White label that is used on a label maker. Make sure you use the label that has the white label and a separate black label tape in the cartridge as well. This is the durable version. The labels that are white with no separate black tape will wear and show black lines the first time you mount the lens. I use the plastic labels because they are thinner than paper labels, more durable AND the ink will not bleed on them when marking them.

 

Take a coded lens and mark the outside of the barrel with a marker where the fifth dot on the lens is.

 

Mount the lens on the camera and Mark the lens mount where the mark on the lens is. See the picture.

 

Now remove the lens and mount the Zeiss. Mark the outside of the lens bayonet with a marker where it lines up with the mark on the camera.

 

See the picture of the lens.

 

Take the circle template and mount it over the lens. CAREFULLY with a marker, mark the outline of the dot you wish to mimic. Make sure to be very precise and keep the same angle!

 

This is the tricky bit. But once done you are in business!

 

You see the jewelers screw driver in the first photo? It has a blade that is 3/32” wide. Just about right. Heat that screwdriver with a flame from your stove. Carefully drive it through the template where the mark is. You will then take your xato knife and meticulously finish carving out the hole. Take your time. This is the longest part of the process but the most important.

 

Take some painters tape and place it around the edge of your new cut out. This is to elevate the template and keep the ink from running when you color in the hole.

 

Now simply pull out some tape from the cartridge. Holding the template firmly over the tape, cut away the circle. The with a fine tip Sharpe pen, fill in the black dot.

 

Peel away the backing and lineup the new dot with the mark on the lens and press it in place.

 

Push the frame lever in towards the lens and power up. If the menu comes up, you are good to go. If it does not, make sure the dot is not too small. If it is too big you will need to cut out another whole in the template. Once you get it right, just trim off the excess from around the lens. You now have a sturdy template which will yield consistent results.

 

As you can see, I have cut out several stickers ready to use. They are very durable and should hold up well.

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