A Focus Question about My M2

[wilonstott]

Alright--here's the deal. I've noticed that some of my shots with my nokton 50/1.5 have been a bit blurry at close focus. So I measured the rangefinder, and it isn't lining up at 3 ft or 4 ft (I have to get closer to the subject to get the rangefinder to line up--5-6 inches)--I'm not sure whether to measure from the end of the lens or the rangefinder (neither focused correctly). My question is this: Should I send it to Mr. Ye, or can I do this myself? The vertical alignment seems to be fine. Can someone please give me some feedback on this--its driving me crazy. Am I a screwdriver turn away from sanity, or is it more involved?

Thanks,
Wil

 

[Melvin]

The rangefinder should be calibrated at infinity. Focus on a building or some other landmark a few miles away, the camera should focus on them at the infinity setting. The M rangefinder is linear, if it's on at infinity it will be on close up.

If it's off you can adjust it yourself, there are instructions online. I found I had to file down my screwdriver to get it to fit though, the slot is really thin.

 

[KoNickon]

These cameras have more than one rangefinder adjustment -- infinity is just one of them. I saw an explanation recently of the different elements here: http://www.jumboprawn.net/jesse/cams/gear-profiles/leica-m2-overhaul/leica-m2-overhaul.html

But very importantly, you need to be checking focus from the object to the film plane. I don't think the M2 (or any of the M cameras) has an indicator showing exactly where that is.

Send it to Youxin Ye and he'll put it right quickly and for not a lot of money.

 

[ChrisN]

Wil - can your email stand a 767kb attachment? I can send you a pdf file with an excellent article about adjusting the rangefinder. PM me with your email address.