Haze in Lenses

[rjschell]

It may frighten some, but I have successfully removed internal haze caused by volatilized lubricants by gently polishing with a jeweler's cloth wrapped around a Q-tip. The haze was impervious to a wide range of solvents. The affected surfaces are the rear of the front group and the front of the rear group (which are on both sides of the diaphragm and/or shutter). My 50mm f/2 Retina-Zenon was the most afflicted patient. My 50mm f/2 Summitar had only slight hazing.
Note: Many lenses "look" clear until you shine a flashlight through them.

 

[Overkill-F1]

I haven't heard of a jeweler's cloth. Does it have some sort of polishing compound impregnated into the cloth? I have an issue with my Retina IIa that may benefit with a gentle polish. Regular lens cleaning didn't work.
...Terry

 

[Highway 61]

Any polishing paste will do it (and the "jeweler's cloth" is indeed impregnated with a polishing compound) in case of hardened haze not wanting to just go away with isopropylic alcohol.

BUT this will also remove the coatings.

A matter of choice.