35 lux with loose aperture ring

[four]

So I just got this lens off the 'bay. It's a 35 lux asph. and the aperture ring is so loose it rattles. I wouldn't say the play in the ring is excessive but... Does anyone think this is bad? Return it?

Thanks.

Eric.

 

[dreamsandart]

The 35 Lux ASPH is notorious for its 'loose' aperture ring. That is, its turns very easy or smooth depending on your viewpoint, but 'rattles'? Sounds like something is wrong, the light touch adjustment of the Lux only has to do with changing the f-stop. Unless you got a super deal think I'd return it.

 

[peter_n]

I returned a new(ish) 50mm Summicron because the aperture ring rattled around in the breeze. Modern Leica lenses are nowhere near the build quality of the older ones and some are really rubbish. Leica should be ashamed of themselves. When I bought my own 35 Lux ASPH I drove to the neighbouring state to pick it up to make sure it was OK. I would return the lens.

 

[pbjbike]

Sherry or DAG can probably fix it for not a lot of money. Might be worth sending it out for a quick fix rather than going the return route/finding another one at a good price, etc.

 

[steve garza]

If it bothers you so much that you'll need to spend money on adjustung it then send it back. You can find another in better condition for about the same price. I assume your lens is black as the Chrome is currently commanding a premium. I purchased one from a well known vendor and it arrived with a slightly loose aperture ring (not too bad), but the focus is pretty sticky which does have an effect on the operation. The vendor offered to have it adjusted, but wouldn't make his offer in writing so I decided to deal with it on my own. I've found a repair shop which estimated $80.00. I couldn't send the lens back right away because I leaving for a trip and besides, I like the chrome finish.

 

[Flyfisher Tom]

Eric,

The 35/lux/asph has a reputation for having a looser aperture ring than other leica lenses. But rattling is something else. I'd either return it, or send it off for a CLA at DAG or Krauter. good luck

 

[stric]

My 35mm ‘lux also ‘developed’ a lose aperture ring. Initially when I bought the lens from the Popflash the ring was so lose that I returned it and exchanged it for a new one. The new one wasn’t exactly ‘tight as a drum’ but it didn’t rattle. However, over time I noticed that it started rattling and I observed the free-play along the optical axis of the lens. The ring still clicks nicely in its groves when turned. This time, however, I contacted Leica technical service department in Germany and they ‘assured’ me that some free-play is ‘normal’ and that it does develop over time on Summilux lenses and that there is nothing wrong with them. I am still not so sure about the whole thing especially after reading numerous reports of the same problem that sometimes resulted in ‘leans-separation’. Since the lens otherwise performs flawlessly, I’ll use it until the warranty period is about to expire and then send it for an adjustment to Popflash.
Honestly even if the lens is supposed to develop some rattle over time I think that it’s unacceptable by modern standards. Too bad, it’s otherwise super nice lens.

 

[Nachkebia]

The one I tested in my local store was also very lose.

 

[Jon Graham]

Eric,

The 35/lux/asph has a reputation for having a looser aperture ring than other leica lenses. But rattling is something else. I'd either return it, or send it off for a CLA at DAG or Krauter. good luck

Advise putting up with it or sending to DAG or Sherry, but don't expect it to come back with no looseness - it is endemic to this lens - especially the chrome one. But you gotta love this lens, loose aperature or not.

 

[Flyfisher Tom]

Advise putting up with it or sending to DAG or Sherry, but don't expect it to come back with no looseness - it is endemic to this lens - especially the chrome one. But you gotta love this lens, loose aperature or not.

I agree.

In terms of overall competence and ability, it is my favorite lens.