Leica LTM Collapsible lens question

[Pfreddee]

I own a Leica IIIf, which has a Canon Serenar f1.9,attached, and it is collapsible. There was some question doubt whether or not it was a good idea to collapse it, or leave it extended. My repair person wasn't sure about my particular camera and the lens, so he recommended leaving it extended. What are some other opinions and experiences?

Thank you to all who apply.

With best regards.

Pfreddee(Stephen)

 

[splitimageview]

Yes. Collapse it or leave it extended.

 

[raydm6]

I have two IIIFs with a Collapsible Summitar and Summicron. I leave it extended while shooting and collapse it only while storing or not using for an extended period of time.

I’m not aware of any issues from collapsing the lens and perhaps introducing fatigue to the mechanism. They were designed for this so I never give it a thought or worry.

I would worry more that I forgot to extend it and shoot with it collapsed. I haven’t done that but I have heard of people who did.

 

[Sonnar Brian]

It will collapse correctly into a Leica IIIf and the Canon cameras up through the Canon IV. The Canon 7 and Canon P it might hit the light Baffles.

The lens uses a cloth material for the barrel to collapse. If this wears, makes collapsing difficult or will jam up. After 70 years- will probably be worn. If it feels rough when collapsing, might be the problem.

 

[farlymac]

The one thing I avoid is mounting or removing a lens while it is collapsed. Other than that, I only collapse the lens when putting the camera back in the bag so it's easier to get it in and out.

PF

 

[Doug A]

I often carry an LTM Leica on a strap over my right shoulder, under an unbuttoned shirt. It's really only practical with a 50mm lens collapsed (or a tiny 35mm Nikkor). I've been doing this for years with my 50/2.8 Elmar and Summicron with no issues.

 

[Malcolm M]

Keep it extended. Then you won't make a **** up of pulling it out and locking it into position.

 

[peterm1]

I have a Leitz Summitar and not being sure about the wisdom of allowing it to collapse inside a digital camera where there are potentially various bits and pieces that it might clash with I decided to leave it extended (after all collapsing it was supposed to be for when the lens/camera combo is placed in a coat pocket or something of that sort. Something I never do) So I did what many others have done - I just placed a length of clear tape around the shaft of the lens so it cannot accidentally collapse. The lock on my Summitar is quite loose and it has a tendency to unlock itself regularly. And if I wish to reverse it - simple, just remove the tape.