Folding Zeiss Contessa - viewfinder prism removal

[Kevcaster]

Hi all
I am cleaning (not full restoration) a folding Contessa. I have the top off and all is in good shape. The prism seems stuck to the casting it rests upon and I wondered if this is correct or if the tape that is wrapped around it has simply bonded to the metal and fixed it in place. I am understandably reluctant to lever too much and hear the crack of shame as i render it useless. The tape looks original, cloth based and crumbling in places.
A nice little camera that I hope to play with. All help welcome.
Kevin

 

[wes loder]

prisms in Contessa

prisms in Contessa

I am not sure that the rangefinder prisms inside the Contessa are meant to be moved at all. The moving part of the rangefinder is out on the arm of the lens where you have counter rotating prisms. No direct experience, so I cannot advice you for certain. WES LODER

 

[ZeissFan]

Yes, it probably is stuck to the tape. Try loosening it by prying gently. If that doesn't work, get a small block of wood and LIGHTLY tap it.

I've owned about 15 of these at one time or another. They are well made cameras. I only have a few left.

 

[Dez]

As Wes mentioned, the RF bits in the body do not move. I wouldn't mess with them unless absolutely necessary. You may have difficulty getting the RF realigned if you disturb them.

Cheers,
Dez