Zeiss Super Ikonta 531/2

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docc

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I'm trying to restore my Dad's camera. I was quite hard on it using it for the school paper 'back in the day.' It needs a rear viewfider lens and the mask which overlies it. I suppose there must have been a small frame for the two screws.

I've tried the searches and such, but can anyone help me find these parts or a reputable repair facility in the States?
 
Thanks, Bob. I've put this off for a long time, but am glad to find an enclave of enthusiasts for the old boxes. Seems like there were quite a few of the Super Ikonta made (not sure about the 531/2) so I'm hoping there may be one or two being parted out.
 
Unfortunately, no response the last couple days from the above links. Is there any hope? I hate to see the old Zeiss as a junker.
 
I have 3 old 531/2s which have the "Albada" finder. These cameras are very good with the exception of the finders. Indeed the finder is the weak part. These finders did not age well, and even the best are not good.

To continue the search for the proper parts is a good idea. It may take some time as these cameras are rather scarce, and unfortunately parts can be very expensive.

But if I may I'd like to offer an interim suggestion. The Russian Moskva 2 and 4 are very similar to your 531/2 (also known as the Super Ikonta C) The finders in most cases are interchangeable! I would suggest using parts from one of these cameras, as they are very inexpensive ($65.00 US) and easily availble.
 
I'll begin to search for those patrs. If I can find the proper parts I can always add them later.

Any ideas on sources for the Russian parts?

EDIT: Here I was thinking mine is a Super Ikonta"2." The eyepiece has an overlay with white marks to frame the view with the film mask either in or out. Are the Moskvas built this way?
 
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docc said:
I'll begin to search for those patrs. If I can find the proper parts I can always add them later.
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docc said:
Any ideas on sources for the Russian parts?

EDIT: Here I was thinking mine is a Super Ikonta"2." The eyepiece has an overlay with white marks to frame the view with the film mask either in or out. Are the Moskvas built this way?
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Ebay, I suppose is the best in terms of cost and variety. This is where I got mine. Search: "(moskva,mosckva,moscou,moscow) camera" You will likely have to purchase from the former Soviet Union, but I've had no trouble.
Your Super Ikonta has the "Albada finder" which seems to be mostly problematical. The rest of the camera is great.
The Moskva finder will be a copy of the earlier, pre Albada finder. It fits with a little work. It will look almost identical. Almost.
The Moskva finder, you will find is a bit of an improvement over the Albada finder.

Oh, and yes, I should have said that you will have to buy the whole camera, but at 60 or so dollars plus shipping it isn't bad.
 
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Yes, I saw those complete cameras. And noticed the single window style eyepiece.

What do you mean about it being an 'improvemant?' And as far as fitting: a little jeweler's file or what?
 
docc said:
Yes, I saw those complete cameras. And noticed the single window style eyepiece.

What do you mean about it being an 'improvemant?' And as far as fitting: a little jeweler's file or what?
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The front lens in the Albada finder is made in two pieces. One piece has been partially silvered to reflect the white grid in the rear finder but "clear" enough to view through. I haven't seen one that hasn't become somewhat opague and difficult to view with. (Having said this, you must realize that I haven't seen yours. You may have a good one. Not likely, but entirely possible!)

The finder from the Moskva is more like the early (all black) Super Ikontas, just two simple lenses. In truth, they are entirely useable finders
The Moskva finder should fit the holes in the Ikonta body, if not adjust, or drill holes in the Moskva finder. ------of course, it must be said that you do nothing to the Ikonta body, other than fit the Moskva finder to it--------.
Now, I have done this myself and had success but if you are unsure of working on something like this you may want to do a bit of outsourcing. I do not do work for others I'm afraid.
I wish you the best of luck with this project. I'll try to help if I can.
 
I see the silvering now that you mention it. The rear lens has been gone from the viewfinder for 35 years (8th grade!) so it is hard to judge the opacity.

Rather than just robbing the rear lens and frame I would be changing the entire viewfinder/rangefinder unit? I cannot otherwise see how the folding viewfinder is attached.

I did have success last night freeing the stuck shutter. I could not get the inner lens of the front element out, yet the shutter gradually closed in the process and now appears functional. I know I will have to refocus it finally. Unfortunately, the marked focus ring must also be on that Jr.High playground. From pictures it appears the ring from the Moskva may fit the Tessar. (?)
 
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Rather than just robbing the rear lens and frame I would be changing the entire viewfinder/rangefinder unit? I cannot otherwise see how the folding viewfinder is attached.

Yes they are almost identical. The Moskva hasn't the same nice finish as the Ikonta but right now who cares.

I did have success last night freeing the stuck shutter. I could not get the inner lens of the front element out, yet the shutter gradually closed in the process and now appears functional.

The inner lens element can be difficult to remove without a proper tool that grips the inner lens assembly. If you crush, distort or in anyway damage this the focusing element will not work smoothly or not at all. Micro tools has the wrenches.

I know I will have to refocus it finally. Unfortunately, the marked focus ring must also be on that Jr.High playground. From pictures it appears the ring from the Moskva may fit the Tessar. (?)[/quote]

At this point I realize that you wish to really get inside the camera. If this is a camera that is precious to you I would strongly suggest Jurgen at Certo 6. The camera is worth a lot of money when completely functional ie. $300 to $700 or more, depending on condition. It may need a bellows, the shutter may need a good CLA, the lenses may need cleaning etc. If the lens is a "Opton" Tessar the inner glass elements are coated and exquisitley fragile. There are things that could happen to your beautiful old camera that could really destroy it.

When properly repaired and adjusted this will be a camera to use and really enjoy as I do mine. Your camera is a heirloom as well. Please use caution.
 
That is good and well thought out advice. I am waiting to hear rom Jurgen He must be quite busy returning from vacation.

I am excited about taking photos with it again. It was my first camers and a constant companion in those days.

Looks like I'll be lurking and searching rangefinder.com for some time to come!

Thanks once more for your patient responses.
 
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