Back from service ... Kodak Retina IIc

Godfrey

Godfrey

somewhat colored
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Dec 15, 2011
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I'm happy to report that the nice folks at Advanced Camera in Portland came in right on schedule with the full CLA service on the Kodak Retina IIc that I sent them in mid-August. The camera now looks, feels, smells, and operates as if it were practically brand new. This was the first of the small lot of Kodak Retina IIc and IIIc RF cameras from that era that I acquired this year, and one of the prettiest of the lot in terms of cosmetic condition. Now that it's been gone through, it's the best operating of them too.

It's been loaded with a roll of 36 exposure film. The adventure begins... :)

G
 
I am also a IIc owner...mine has a sticky shutter so I don't take it out often (it will work OK with a bit of pre-exercise).
I've always liked the way the Schneider Xenon lenses draw. The Retina IIa was in fact my first introduction to rangefinders years ago. The lenses lend a special, sort of etched and dynamic effect to images (B/W in particular)--something I've yet to see in any Leica (or any other brand of screw or M-mount lens.) And for color, well they are a match made in heaven with Kodachrome
 
Thanks! I'm quite taken with these cameras ... I have two more going in for a service, one at a time.

Given what I see in this service, I have nothing but praise for the folks at Advanced Camera. The viewfinder is now crystal clear, the shutter sounds and works beautifully smoothly, and all up with shipping both ways from San Jose in California, the service bill was under $190 ... Quite reasonable and well worth it!

G
 
I have a IIa that was gifted to me by a RFF member...everything appears to be functioning properly but the focusing is off and the lens could use a good cleaning. Advanced Camera serviced one if my Pentax MXs and I have actually been to their store in Portland. My only concern right now is cost...this is a camera that I don't need to use BUT would like to. If you don't mind could you share what the CLA cost...???

I see you posted what I was asking for while I was still writing my question...
 
The Kodak Retina IIc that i acquired back in Summer has returned from its full CLA service at Advanced Camera in Portland. They did a wonderful job, it's like a new camera! So I had to go out for a walk with it ... actually, a few walks! Finally got through a 36 shot roll of XP2 Super.


Ginko Leaves - Santa Clara 2021
Kodak Retina IIc
Ilford XP2 Super in HC-110 1:61


Looking at the entire roll of photos, the Schneider 50mm f/2.8 lens on this camera seems every bit as good as the f/2 version on the Retina IIIc, or even my Leica Summicron-M 50mm f/2! The Retina IIc is handy, protects its lens when folded for carrying, and is a joy to shoot with. Truly a delightful camera.


Enjoy!

G
 
I have a Retina IB - an unusual model that LOOKS like the IIIC (Big C) but lacks a rangefinder - it has the 50mm f2.8. I bought it for $20 -listed as "not working" - I loaded it and shot a test roll with no issues whatsoever! Several rolls since then....

I agree that these Schneider/Rodensak lenses can yield rather astounding results - sharp, contrasty, definitely different than the Leicas and Canons of the era - sort of Zeiss like?
I don't miss a rangefinder on that camera - although it is sort of weird (the viewfinder is the brightline, nice version shared with the IIIC)
 
Glad to hear you're happy with the work. I'm looking at the IIa they did for me last spring and eight weeks after back surgery, I should be able to take it with me fairly soon.
 
cassel said:
I have a Retina IB - an unusual model that LOOKS like the IIIC (Big C) but lacks a rangefinder - it has the 50mm f2.8. I bought it for $20 -listed as "not working" - I loaded it and shot a test roll with no issues whatsoever! Several rolls since then....

I agree that these Schneider/Rodensak lenses can yield rather astounding results - sharp, contrasty, definitely different than the Leicas and Canons of the era - sort of Zeiss like?
I don't miss a rangefinder on that camera - although it is sort of weird (the viewfinder is the brightline, nice version shared with the IIIC)
Click to expand...

I own a Retina 1b. Third owner. Love mine. Schneider Retina-Xenar 50 mm/f2.8. Shoot landscapes and street photography. Love shooting it. Scale focusing no problem at f5.6 and smaller. Your viewfinder is nicer on your later 1B. Many people forget about the film release button, a Retina quirk of this era. Mine replaced a Voigtlander Vito II I loved when it's shutter failed.
 
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