Early Summicron 50mm yellow tint

[edkonz]

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I did some research on the cause of the tint. Some references claim it is due to radioactive lens elements that could be harmful, others say no.

 

Does anyone have difinitive information?

 

Thanks

[andybarton]

There was a discussion on this topic a few years ago on the old forum. (Oh look! Started by me )

 

PhotoNotes.org Dictionary - Radioactive glass

 

Pentax lenses also used similar glass. The radioactive oxides improved the refractive index of the glass.

 

Users had to keep them in lead-lined cases and only handle them with rubber gloves. Consequently, most of them are in perfect condition. (Only kidding)

 

I am sure that they are perfectly safe to handle and use.

[tobey bilek]

I almost boought a Mint+++ coll Summicron in screw mount until I looked thru it. Yellow/brown color. I have a later collapsible that is fine. LaK9 Lanthanium glass was the culprit.

 

Been told exposure to light for a week will correct the problem. I did not want to keep it that long and then return it, so I returned it right away.

 

Black and white pics were fine. Did not try color.

 

There is not enough radiation to worry about for use on a camera. Just don`t sleep with it long term.