john_s
Well-known
I have just adjusted the rangefinder on my R3M using the instructions at
http://www.arransalerno.com/blog/bessa-rangefinder-calibration/
and also some info I found. The latter instructions included the useful tip to remove the hotshoe cover by putting Scotch tape on it and then jerking it towards the back of the camera. It came off at the second attempt, and seems preferable to prying it with a screwdriver.
My rangefinder patch had been above the main viewfinder image, not by much but enough to not allow focus to snap into place, especially in poor light. I was surprised to find that the right hand screw which does this adjustment was quite loose. I made the small adjustment without any trouble. I think I'll put a tiny bit of nail varnish on it when I'm sure that everything is just right.
Also, the rangefinder image does not line up exactly when the lens is at its infinity stop. Not by much but still annoying. The second screw from the right is supposed to adjust this but I couldn't get it to move. I didn't want to force it too hard. It's hard to see this screw and I don't know if it normally has some adhesive on it. I bought the body new, so presumably it hasn't been adjusted since it left the factory. Has anyone a suggestion about loosening this screw? If I can't get it to move I'll leave it alone. The error is rather small.
http://www.arransalerno.com/blog/bessa-rangefinder-calibration/
and also some info I found. The latter instructions included the useful tip to remove the hotshoe cover by putting Scotch tape on it and then jerking it towards the back of the camera. It came off at the second attempt, and seems preferable to prying it with a screwdriver.
My rangefinder patch had been above the main viewfinder image, not by much but enough to not allow focus to snap into place, especially in poor light. I was surprised to find that the right hand screw which does this adjustment was quite loose. I made the small adjustment without any trouble. I think I'll put a tiny bit of nail varnish on it when I'm sure that everything is just right.
Also, the rangefinder image does not line up exactly when the lens is at its infinity stop. Not by much but still annoying. The second screw from the right is supposed to adjust this but I couldn't get it to move. I didn't want to force it too hard. It's hard to see this screw and I don't know if it normally has some adhesive on it. I bought the body new, so presumably it hasn't been adjusted since it left the factory. Has anyone a suggestion about loosening this screw? If I can't get it to move I'll leave it alone. The error is rather small.