Planar 50/2 lens focus ring 'play'

[robinje]

I bought a brand new Zeiss Planar T 50/2 ZM lens to add to my Icon. I just got it yesterday... YAY! But... there's a 'slight' amount of 'free play' in the focus ring movement. I mean it is very slight, but I can feel it when I move the focus ring back and forth. It is so minute that I cannot see the free play with my eyes, but I can feel it with my hand on the focus ring. It is not always perceptible, but is noticable much of the time. This does not exist with my Biogon 35/2. Is this a normal artifact, or do I have a defective lens that need adjustment? The lens does focus properly at infinity, close up, and all distances in between. It's just the slight bit of play that is a concern. Hmmm... what to do? Live with it and move on, proceed with returning the lens for a replacement, or seek warranty repair?

 

[kipkeston]

It's totally normal. Actually I should say common.

 

[jonmanjiro]

Not uncommon. It clearly annoys you so I recommend sending it for repair under warranty. Regreasing the focus helicoid should fix it.

 

[Avotius]

My planar is almost toast after a couple years of use. The focus ring clicks back and forth, when focusing it is very rough and makes squeaking noises as if there is no grease in the helicoid, and the inner lens cell rattles around in the focusing mount.

Not exactly promising. I have been thinking about swapping up to a Leica lens, the two leicas I have are both 40+ years old and yet no issues...something to think about.

 

[robinje]

I have until this coming Monday to decide whether to return the lens for a refund. If I return it, I may buy the 50/1.5 Sonnar as a replacement. I'll fool around with the Planar over the weekend and decide if the focus ring play is a big enough issue to return the lens or not.