Contrast lenses for M10

[wolan]

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Hi,

do you know alternatives to this product to improve the focus experience? For which focal lengths are they recommended?

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aornOZbQauE

 

Thanks

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[UliWer]

I confess I didn't try any of these "contrast" lenses on an M rangefinder, just the old Okaro/Orako on a screwmount. You could argue that contrast could be an issue with the rather dark screwmount rangefinder, but I think bothering about contrast misses the point for an M. If there is a problem with the rangefinder, it is not contrast, but precision. Either precision of the camera's mechanism (if it is not corresponding properly to the focus of the lens) or more often precision of your sight. The "contrast" lenses make the viewfinder darker, which does not add to precision but stands in it's way. Magnification can help, but only if the brightness of the viewfinder is not reduced.

[jaapv]

Coloured filters for the ocular have been peddled since the M3.  On Barnacks with their separate rangefinder they can be  modestly effective. I tried one or two in the past on various M cameras but IMO they are snake oil for the sophisticated M rangefinder.
They appear to increase contrast, but in reality they reduce overall viewfinder brightness, which is counterproductive in low light.. The best way to increase the ease of focusing is using the correct diopter.

 

4 hours ago, UliWer said:

Magnification can help, but only if the brightness of the viewfinder is not reduced.

Which magnification always does, by definition.
On top of that it will, in some cases, magnify the problem as well. I have bought, used and discarded a number of different magnifiers, but they always ended up in the back of a drawer after a few weeks.
The only conceivable use is with a 135 lens, which is slightly beyond the focusing optimum for an M rangefinder, especially to magnify the rather small frame. Nevertheless an experienced user will have no trouble focusing without one, rather the opposite. They are not meant to aid an incorrect ocular strength or failing focusing technique.

[jakontil]

I use both the contrast lens and magnifier on my M bodies

 

the contrast lens quite helpful when shooting outdoor on a bright sunny day like in beach, while the magnifier useful when shooting close up portraits