Question - Leica Macro Elmar 90mm goggle adapter on analog M

[zhanteh]

I am hoping someone can help me understand if the Leica close up macro adapter(with goggles) will help in terms focusing when attached to an analog M camera.

My goal is to downsize my gear during travels. I currently use my Leica M6 for all photography needs with the exception of this ongoing photo project that requires close up macro. For that I have a Contax Carl Zeiss 60mm macro on a handy Yashica SLR.

Have been looking for options to consolidate my gear to just use the M system and came across the 90mm Macro Elmar with goggles adapter as an option. I know the adapter will 'unlock' close focus pass 0.7m for the 90mm and the goggle provides magnification but in terms of focusing, does the goggle:

• allow me to accurately focus with split image for close up pass 0.7m?
• or it only magnifies the view and I still have to rely on zone focus / guesstimates?
• or is it something else I completely missed?

Also happy to hear other options for my use case. Thanks in advance.

Picture for reference

 

[Richard G]

Goggles give accurate rangefinder focussing.

 

[zhanteh]

Goggles give accurate rangefinder focussing.

So it allows for rangefinder focusing closer than 0.7m on my M6?

 

[rfaspen]

That's my understanding, but I don't have the macro unit. Are you wondering if it only works on digital bodies? It is a mechanical interface with the rangefinder, so works on film and digital Ms.

 

[Richard G]

It should work on your M6. The M6 TTL is taller. I have used the same concept of the Dual Range 50mm Summicron with close attachment on M2, M6, M9-P and Monochrom M.

 

[zhanteh]

Thanks all, seems like it is a viable option. I might have to start scouring the internet to find a good unit 🙂