35 Summilux with Goggles

[Erik van Straten]

the rangefinder is way off vertically. Is there any possible way to fix this myself, or does this require a visit to a technician?

This is really a problem. This means that the prism in the left (round) optical system is loose. This prism is glued in during the production at the factory. That has to be redone now. This is not a job you can do yourself; you'll really need a tech who is capable to do it.

Erik.

 

[jkjod]

I had actually just found a couple of posts here on RFF where you said the exact same thing Erik (I know, I know there this is what the search function is for...). I was kind of afraid of that before I even knew the answer. Is this something that gets fixed, and if so for how much? Or is this always going to be an issue?

Thanks,

Jordan

 

[jkjod]

I already emailed DAG to see if he could give me a quote...

 

[Erik van Straten]

I really don't know how much the repair will cost you, but it is a tricky job: finding the exact place of the prism and fixing it in a way that it doesn't come loose again.

Erik.

 

[jkjod]

Ugh, thanks Erik...that isn't exactly the answer I was hoping for but I would rather know up front when I am still able to return the lens and not get stuck with a lemon. It sure does look at home on the M3...

 

[Mark C]

Or try using it as is. Some people like a slight vertical misalignment for rapidly finding focus. It sounds like yours is much worse, but if the actual focus is okay it might be worth just using it. The 35 is not too demanding of the rangefinder and many people focus it mostly by feel of the tab anyway.

 

[raid]

The goggled Cron costs $1000 less than the M2 model Cron without goggles. I had both.

 

[jkjod]

Well, it went back to the seller...if it was close I think I could of lived with it. It was so far off I was constantly having to wonder if I was close to in focus or not. I have never shot 35 before and really liked the focal length. REALLY liked the bokeh, curious if the new Voigtlander 35 1.7 will be similar at all. Maybe a M2 is in my future 🙂

 

[Mark C]

That 8 element Summicron (I think that is what you had) is a really nice lens. The later 6 element is very different, but I have come to like it every bit as well.

With patience you can still find the 6 element at decent prices if you are willing to give up the goggles. It is a lovely, tiny, jewel of a lens.