Cleaning ltm 50 1.2, recommendation?

[aleksanderpolo]

Hi, I have a ltm 50/1.2, but there appears to be some condensation/previous cleaning marks in the rear element. I am wondering if anyone can recommend a cleaning service in the US? Or should I just sell it as is (how much is it worth?) Thanks all.

 

[f16sunshine]

It's a very easy lens to open and clean. Maybe there is a tutorial somewhere with photos. Take a look around the web. Also you can post this in the Brian Sweeney section. He likely has a disassemble pictorial for this lens. Cross your fingers Polo. Many of these are hazed in between the rear pair. It's hard to know for sure until it's open.

 

[SolaresLarrave]

I recall Brian Sweeney writing that this lens is extremely easy to clean... if you're so inclined. Otherwise, you could send it to either Sherry Krauter in NY, or John Van Stelten in CO. Trying to sell the lens as is... would be an adventure on uncertainty: you could or could not sell it (or virtually sell it for a penny).

I don't think the repair would be too expensive. It may run you between $125 & $150 with Sherry... though it's better if you contact both and ask them.

 

[aleksanderpolo]

Thanks, I will contact them as I have zero experience/confidence in cleaning the lens myself.

 

[Waus]

There is this wonderfull tutorial:
http://www.portretteur.nl/index.php...12-rangefinder-lens&catid=37:lenses&Itemid=58

 

[aleksanderpolo]

Thanks for the link to the tutorial. I was contemplating on doing it myself, but found Mr. Ye's contact, he will be doing the cleaning so I don't need to risk damaging this lens with my clumsy hands. 🙂

 

[Sonnar Brian]

The 50/1.2 is fairly easy to access. You do need an optical spanner. The lens module comes out of the helical by removing the retaining ring from the back. It is just inside the RF coupling. The module drops out, and the rear module simply unscrews from the main optics module. I used a hollow rubber cork made for running wiring through an electrical box.

But one time I had one welded in place, and I needed the rear module out of it to make a complete lens out of two.

Broke three cutting disks on the dremel getting it out.