Leica LTM Need help using Summaron

[juggler]

Hi!

I recently acquired a Summaron 35mm/3.5. I tried it on my Bessa R.

When I want to change the aperture, the focus ring also moves. I had to hold the focus ring still to change the aperture. The aperture ring is quite smooth to turn already on its own. Good thing though, when I move the focus, the aperture does not move.

Is this "normal" behaviour? Should the aperture ring move independently of the focus ring? Earlier on, I was using a Jupiter 8 and Industar 61 and the aperture rings do move affect the focus.

Or is there a technique in setting the aperture and focus? One way is to preset, I suppose.

Any tips appreciated. Thanks!

 

[FrankS]

Hi Koah,
I have a Summaron too. It is not the easiest lens to adjust aperture because the scale rotates with focus. I set the lens to infinity (locked), set the aperture, then focus. It's not as convenient as 2 separate and independent controls, but the results from the lens are very nice. The 50mm f2.8 Elmar (original) works the same way, as do some FSU lenses.

 

[sestosan]

Summaron

Summaron

What I normaly do, adjust the aperture first and then fine focusing.
Enjoy !
Sal

 

[richard_l]

When focussing any lens with a rangefinder, I like to start from infinity (so that there's only one way to turn the focus ring). Therefore I just set infinity lock, then aperture, and finally focus.

Richard

 

[colyn]

The Summaron's aperture is noted for being a bit stiff so you'll need to set aperture then focus.

 

[juggler]

Thank you all for the input. I get the idea. I shall practise those techniques.

The Summaron looks fun. Now I can see more in the viewfinder.
Will share some results if I can get my hands on a scanner.

Cheers!