Leica LTM The best accessory for an old timer

Leica M39 screw mount bodies/lenses
D

David 11084

Established
Local time
10:38 PM
Joined
Jan 19, 2010
Messages
61
Just fitted a 5cm brightline finder to my 1928 1A.....amazing! Now just constrained by the absence of a show for the Fodis rangefinder. I could not believe how much easier it is to frame shots, especially as I often use Neopan 1600 in *** light.
Anyone have a story to tell?
David
 
The SBOOI was the first accessory I bought for my IIIf. Permanently mounted and use it quite often. Love it!
 
Funny... I sold my SBOOI many years ago because I found it detracted from the pocketability of the cameras I used it on (Leica IIIa and Retinas). A briliant finder, in both senses, and I can see why you might want one on a 1 or A (the usage '1A' never appeared in Leica catalogues), but I'm happier with the fitted finders.

Cheers,

R.
 
The SBOOI is excellent and, more important, far better than the built-in finders of the "Barnacks". However, it does only one focal length; and as a result I used a VIOOH on my IIIc and have another of the same for my IIIa.
 
Among my father's LTM accessories was a 50mm finder simply labeled Albada. It surrounds the frame of the lifesize view surrounded by a bright fuzzy outline -- wonderful to use with both eyes open when following action.
 
I use a CV 35 bright line finder on both my Barnack types, my Bessa L and my Canon G5 (no screen glare there). Back-in-the-day, I used a pair of Leitz bright lines on two Leica 1f's that I carried.
 
I appreciate Roger's comment about the pocketability of the Barnack camera being compromised by the SB001 but.........it is so amazing that it is permanently mounted.I was literally blown away when I used it for the first time. Yes, it only covers one focal length but then I only use one lens. Loved the Viagra comment!
David
 
It's a (the?) great compact VF.

But, I agree with Roger on this one. It changes the camera from pocket-able to neck-swinging. The pocket-ability of the III/Elmar combo is pretty unique and one of its most appealing capabilities.

For most of my casual 'walking camera' use, I pause, momentarily debate bringing it, then head out the door without it.

I wouldn't sell it, though. It's occasionally helpful; often on other cameras.

- Charlie
 
The CV viewfinders are great, but unfortunately they are corrected for someone who is slightly nearsighted. My 35mm CV finder has -0.1 correction. I'm farsighted, so in dim light I really can't use it; my eye just doesn't adjust. No diopter lenses are available.
 
Charlie makes an interesting point that I would echo with my Fodis Rangefinder. I always contemplate using it and rarely do. I too wouldn't be without it though and do use it occasionally.
David
 
I always use an accessory finder with my Barnacks. I have them for 50, 35, 28, and 25. two are Leitz, two are CV. They are essential!
 
I really need something like that for my Bessa RF folder. The finder is small and squinty, which I can deal with, but I've had some surprises regarding what I'm actually getting on the negative, which I can really live w/o.
 
The SBOOI finder completely transformed the use of my old VITO B when I used it over 50 years ago. This thread has reminded me that I have it packed away somewhere in its little brown leather case - I'll go on a hunt for it now. Been using an OM so not needed it.

jesse
 
Two random thoughts... I used a 50mm brightline finder
on an SLR in some really "availalable dark" situations.

I also use an original Voightlander Kontur finder that I think
would meet Roger's approval.
This works beautifully for both-eyes-open action shooting.
See pix in my gallery labeled "Bessa L Streetshooter"
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom