CANON 35 2.8 RF with oil

[littlemax]

I have just received an 35 2.8 CANON RF lens today from HK. (I have taken a couple of pictures and it really seems good 🙄 )

Though the lens was described as in very good condition. No Haze, no fungus. Got it for around 200 $ which seems to be what it goes for these days.

Though on thing: when I opened the parcel, the aperture ring was really stiff. I saw a little bit of grease when closing down. But now I am home and as the temperature's higher grease has spread just all over the blades.

My question : I know this is not that much an issue on rf lense but do you think more oil is likely to add up ? or is it just some preexisting oil that had frozen ? In this case the seller would have mentionned it .... Can grease break during a flight ?

 

[gustavoAvila]

The lens is fifty plus years old and the internal lubricants have broken down, it needs to be cleaned and re-lubed. (This should not cost more than a hundred dollars.)

It comes down to your intentions (for this lens):

1) If you are looking for a cheap "user", send it back.

(After cleaning, you will be out $300; which is three-quarters of the cost of a new Voigtlander 35mm Color Skopar.)

2) If you want to experience the unique rendition that this classic lens offers (and can eat the $300), send it to a reputable repair person and have it serviced.

 

[Mackinaw]

Or maybe just ignore the oil on the blades. i bought a chrome Canon 35/2.8 lens back in the late 70's that had oil on the aperture blades. It was always my intention to have it cleaned. Here it is, 35+ years later, there's still oil on the blades and the lens works fine. No haze on the inner elements has developed either. In this case, doing nothing has worked out fine.

Jim B.

 

[littlemax]

I think I will keep it ..
The sole 35 2.8 on Ebay is mentionning oil as well. Will be the Grail quest to find a perfect 50 yo lens I guess .. 😱