Dual cable release evolution

[alan mcfall]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

Prior to the introduction of the 200 telyt lens with its necessary mirror reflex box (PLOOT), the plate film cameras for microscopes could be operated with the CALLOS. Evidently with the PLOOT introduction a more compact integral unit was envisioned. The first telyts with PLOOT (1935) had an included double cable release without a separate code, these had an elliptical shaped body with two standard single release cables enclosed, and operated by a single plunger. This early release had a circular 27mm top plate and a large 15mm push button, at least 3 variations are noted, dark un-chromed metal with dual lock screws at the bottom to lock either the reflex mirror or the camera shutter or both, a bright finish version with a single lock screw at the bottom to lock just the mirror, and  a version with one bottom lock and another lock at the top that held both cables simultaneously. These early "large top" releases, I find collectable and were certainly used  into the war years. They did not have company logo engraving but do have "germany" on the release collar. They were used on the Leica Rifle.

The next version was more compact and had the condenser logo on the side, the top was now 21.5mm and the push button, 12mm. Later, a black paint version with the Leitz logo rather than the condenser was available. After the M camera in 1954, the release collar ends were available with the small screw-in mounts. And a late version, was circular and built by Prontor.  On the left, CALOS, then 3 versions of the early large release, chrome later release, black and finally the circular.  Cable coverings varied from black woven cloth to coiled chrome metal. Code works or part numbers were applicable to the later models.

Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here…

Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members!