Classic LTM Lenses on the ZM?

[willie_901]

I would like to try some classic glass on my new ZI M body.

I'm particularly curious about Nikkor and Canon LTM 28, 50 and 85 focal length lenses.

I assume it is wise to avoid third-party adapters and obtain Leitz LTM to M adapters.

I assume some lenses may have odd rear elements that would interfere with the ZI innards. But for 28, 50 and 85 lenses this probably won't be an issue.

If the lenses are RF coupled, I anticipate they are compatible with the LTM-M adapter and the ZI M mount and I will have correct RF coupling.

Has anyone tried using old LTM glass on the new ZI M?

willie

 

[back alley]

i have put a few old canon and a nikkor ltm lenses on the zi, no problems to report.

 

[Solinar]

Why not? That is the beauty of the M-mount. It has been a backward compatible system since day one in 1954.

 

[wlewisiii]

I haven't gotten an Ikon to try it on, but about the only lens I can think of that might cause you grief is a Jupiter 12 (35/2.8 FSU lens).

I'll suggest trying the Canon 50/1.8 LTM lens. Excellent optics that's insanely undervalued on the market these days. Everyone either wants faster or the "name"... that's a plus for folks who simply want good glass to shoot. Only hassle with it is the 40mm filter size; find a 40 -> Series VI adaptor and things are good.

William

 

[Huck Finn]

I assume it is wise to avoid third-party adapters and obtain Leitz LTM to M adapters.

willie

Cosina/Voigtlander adapters work just fine, are well made, & will save you money. There is no need to pay more for the Leica adapter.

 

[RML]

I put my J-8 50/2 with Maruma adapter on my ZI. No problems.

 

[Will]

Cosina/Voigtlander adapters work just fine, are well made, & will save you money. There is no need to pay more for the Leica adapter.

My CV 50/75 work fine.. and that's my second one..

Buy a good one the first time..

 

[Huck Finn]

My CV 50/75 work fine.. and that's my second one..

Buy a good one the first time..

Will, was there a problem with your first one? If so, was it replaced under warranty?

 

[Kyle]

I would avoid non Leitz adapters if you plan to go wider than 50/2 or
90/2.8, in particular with long-throw lenses like Canons or Nikkors. I
have yet to come across a non-Leitz adapter that is not
slightly off with my M3 (CLA'ed by Sherry).

Plus you can buy a good used Leitz adapter for US 40 or so, cheaper than
a new CV adapter.

Roland.

PS: see also http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=23389
PPS: and I am not "Leitz-religious" ...

I agree. Although I'm using a CV adaptor for my Canon 35/2 on my ZI, I looked for over a week for a Leitz 35 adaptor before buying the new one. It seems the only people selling Leica adaptors for more than the cost of a new Voigtlander adaptor are dealers, you can get them here or on ebay for $40-55. At that price I'd rather go with a genuine Leitz product, just because they seem to never have problems.

 

[willie_901]

I want to thank everyone for sharing your experiences. I really appreciate your valuable suggestions and comments.

I've decided on a 85 or 90 to get started.

The hunt begins.

Sincerely,

willie

 

[willie_901]

Update, with photos

Update, with photos

I decided to purchase a Nippon Kogaku Nikkor-P.C, 85/2 and LTM-M adapter from a Telenous.

I thought I'd share the first image (full-frame and a crop) with you.

I am very pleased with this lens. I have a lot to learn about using the 85 mm field of view in my work.

This lens requires a hand-held shutter speed at least 1 stop quicker than I use with the ZM 35/2, so I will switch to ISO800 film.

Thanks to everyone who shared their thoughts; and thanks to Telenous for a first-class transaction.

willie