Focussing in vertical position with ZI

[depe]

I recently bought a second hand ZI with 50 ZM plannar. Everithing is fine, but when I shoot in vertical position the focus in one direction is harder and produce some vibrations (in the other direction is fine). And I am worried about it. I don't know if I have a problem with the camera or if it is usual.
This is mi first rangefinder.
Any comment is welcome 😉

 

[bobby_novatron]

I have a ZI, and ZM 50/2 Planar. Both are wonderful photographic instruments.

Like you, I have noticed that the camera seems to respond differently if I am trying to focus vertically. I have tried to compensate by focusing while holding the camera normally (horizontally) then composing while holding the camera in a vertical position. This seems to work OK.

I do not know what you mean by 'produce some vibrations' -- the focusing should not feel any different whether you are holding the camera vertically or horizontally.

Good luck with your photos! You have an excellent lens + camera combination.

 

[depe]

The feeling of the focus is different, in the way that is not soft like in the horizontal position, and seems like something obstruct the ring when moves, but only when focussing in one direction.

May be I should send it to revise. 🙁

 

[thegman]

So you're saying the focus ring becomes stiffer if you hold the camera vertically? That sounds very odd, are you sure it's not just because you're unused to hold the camera/lens that way? If it's not that, I'd consider maybe talking to Zeiss. I've found them to be very helpful.

 

[StaaleS]

I don't have a Zeiss, but on Leicas and Bessas I have given up on vertical focusing. I always seem to have a finger or something in the way of the rangefinder window 🙂 So, for me it's focus-and-rotate.

 

[mfogiel]

On my ZI the focusing feels perfectly the same, no mater what camera orientation or direction in which you turn the lens. I think you should try another lens to make sure this phenomenon is camera related, and in that case try to contact Zeiss for fixing it.

 

[abumac]

It should feel the same.

 

[monopix]

It's pretty difficult to imagine what would cause a difference in either the camera or the lens just by turning it vertically. I would suggest this is a handling issue rather than anything real. Try mounting the camera on a tripod and turn the focussing ring from the front (that is, don't try and hold the camera as you would if you were hand holding it). Then turn the camera vertically on the tripod and try again. Is there still a difference?

You could also try just the lens on its own off the camera and/or try gently pressing on the cam follower in the camera with the lens off to see if you can detect a difference.

Also, if you're convinced it's a real problem, does it happen regardless of which way you turn the camera to the vertical?

 

[MCTuomey]

I wouldn't be surprised if the planar needed a trip to zeiss for focus ring adjustment and relubing. Mine did, due to inconsistent damping. Afterwards, focus ring "feel" has been perfect, in any direction and at any point in the throw.

 

[Harry S.]

Yes this^

Zeiss Wobble. Its more pronounced when the camera is vertical so Ive found.

 

[depe]

Thanks for the replies, I'll try to perform another tests tonight, and I'll also try to test the body with another lens (wich may be difficult because I only own the plannar).
By the way, how much can cost send the lens to zeiss to repair?