Leica CL / Leitz Minolta CL Lens Question

Palaeoboy said:
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Wow, thanks for all the information. I'm glad I posted about that conversation in this thread because it's nice to hear a differing viewpoint. It seems like the general consensus in this thread is that the camera's condition and the amount it's been cared for are more important than the exact build.

Additionally, I loved hearing your personal experience with the 40mm (as well as the experiences of the others who have posted about it). It's encouraging for someone like myself who has become really invested in the 35mm FOV but has not ever used a 40mm lens. Thank you for that.

Lastly, @ferider (if you're still around this thread) or anyone else who knows, you mentioned that RF cam is different for the first two lenses you listed in your post with the images of the three different versions. As someone who is new to rangefinders, what exactly does this mean? Does it mean that the frameline guide in the rangefnder provided by the Summi and Rokkor CL version is different than the one provided by the CLE version?
I think images of the RF cams might help me understand this, but I want to be sure that that's what we're talking about. Thanks!
 
pyeh said:
Paleoboy, I'm a big big fan of CLs and CLEs. Some of my CLs' are needing meter service, in that when I got them the meters were working, but somehow now have suddenly stopped working. I hope these aren't permanent failures.
Is there anyone in Australia that you recommend for servicing CLs?
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Hi,

Well, I dunno about Australia but it might help if I point out that the meter is on a mechanical link and the mechanics are probably dirty etc. Usually meter cells that have been kept in the dark like the CL's or most elderly Westons in their leather cases last a long, long time. My oldest working one is from 1948...

Regards, David
 
AidanA said:
SNIP! ...or anyone else who knows, you mentioned that RF cam is different for the first two lenses you listed in your post with the images of the three different versions. As someone who is new to rangefinders, what exactly does this mean? Does it mean that the frameline guide in the rangefnder provided by the Summi and Rokkor CL version is different than the one provided by the CLE version?
I think images of the RF cams might help me understand this, but I want to be sure that that's what we're talking about. Thanks!
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Hi,

The frame-lines are moved into place as the lens is fitted and the last few degrees before the click move a lever. Look at the font of the camera and the lever is at about 3 o'clock, by the external lever on an M series. The bayonet is cut slightly differently for each frame-line. And, alas, a lot of people modify the screw to M adapters with a file rather than buy a new one. Search for the LTM adapter that doesn't work complaint and you'll probably find lot of info.

As for the RF, look at 12 o'clock behind the lens' mount and you'll see a small lever that is pushed back by the lens. Focusing the lens moves a tube back and forth and that moves the RF cam and that moves the image. Easy to see with the body and lens in your hands.

Some of the RF levers (Leitz) have a roller on the end and some a solid but adjustable part. Look for the difference between FEDs made into Leica fakes and there's masses showing it.

Some lens makers assume a roller will be fitted on the camera and don't conform to the original Leitz lens pattern. this can cause problems.

Hope this makes sense, words are never quite adequate but a making a short film is a little beyond me at present, ditto typing with one finger...

Regards, David
 
Thanks for your note on dirty mechanical meter linkages, David. Perhaps I just need to clean mine a bit. I'll give it a go.
 
When had a CL I was uning it with a 35mm ltm lens with an adapter. I think it wa a 35mm 2.5 nikkor. The camera looked very cool and missing framelines were not a big issue. I was just framing a little wider than the 40mm ftamwlines. However, after a while it started bothering me. If I had to get another one now I will probably take it with the 40mm lems. For the 35mm lens I found my Bessa R2 to be better match.
 
The 40 either summicron or rokkor is a great lens. That focal length is not my favourite. I far prefer the 35mm, but for me, I only have to adjust to the narrower view when shooting close in. I find the same issue with the 28. I'm pretty much a 21/35 guy. Any way you cut it, the Leica CL is a great camera!
 
Thanks for the help everyone!

I took the plunge and got one! Heeding the advice here I didn't restrict my search to just the Minolta version. I ended up getting a Leica CL with the Summicron 40 f/2 lens from Bergen County Photo in New Jersey. They were awesome and answered my questions extensively and happily on Friday and Saturday over the phone. I gave myself Saturday night and all of Sunday to think about it and then I got up early (7am Seattle time) to get it this morning!

Clean and working condition, the shutter speeds are accurate and even the meter works! It came with a hood for the 40/2, but no front cap. The salesman today told me also that focusing the lens produces just a bit more friction than usual but that is the only performance flaw, other than that all is good and well. I figured I'd try it out myself before seeing if I need it cleaned.

Really feeling excited about getting this little guy in the mail. I can't wait to start shooting.

Some minor questions and thoughts:
-Where can I find a front lens cap for this lens?
-Advice on a cheap, good strap?
-I have seen the half Zhou cases, they seem pretty cool. I figured I'd wait until it's in my hands before decided if I want to add anything like that.
-Anything else I should be thinking about (or anything else I will need?)

Woohoo!
 
Congrats !

I have only used the original cap on the Summicron-C + hood, somebody else might chime in if there is something cheaper.

You will need a different strap if you add a Zhou case. Without the case, a simple Nylon flat strap will work, there is a great variety on eBay. My favorite is the original Voigtlander Nylon strap (like 253023571162@ebay), but you can probably go cheaper. I personally never liked a strap on the CL.

Roland.
 
Well done, now all you need is film and a battery. In your shoes I'd do a bit of research into the battery and look on ebay for a lens cap; I think only the original will work with the lens hood in place.

The ERC's I've seen for sale usually include the extra long plain strap, which is needed IMO.

Regards, David
 
My next question is where, if anywhere, can I find the 5.5 series filters for the Summi 40?

I assume this is the correct orange filter, but I can't find any of the others listed anywhere.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Genuine-Vin...971647?hash=item2128f3907f:g:F0sAAOSwgv5ZSZyz

Is there a "go to" spot to buy these?

EDIT: I forgot to mention that I talked to Bergen County Cameras again today and the rep (Paul) said that he was able to find the original case, lens cap, and strap for my CL. Wow, I cannot wait to receive it!
 
Hi,

You seem to be on a lucky run with the CL.

As for filters, they turn up from time to time and, as you've looked at one on ebay, you'll find they will email you daily about them. I found 5 or 6 after looking at your link and dread the next ten years as ebay's system starts working on it... ;-)

The battery choice is for either a Wein cell or else an adapter for a small hearing aid battery. It's best to do a bit of checking around for them. The CL needs a mercury battery at 1.3v, BTW, but I expect you'll read that in the instruction manual.

Regards, David
 
Well done. It's a lovely camera. It's been my main Leica for over a decade, partly because I love the 40mm lens so much.

I hated the original strap, with which the camera hangs sideways - it makes it much more prone to bashing against things and getting dented. So I bought the ZHou case and found it worked really well.
 
Who are the go to repair professionals for this camera (repair of dead light meter / conversion to current battery / replacement of broken film take up spool? i had a less than exemplary experience with Sherry Krauter, so would appreciate other suggestions.
 
jamin-b said:
Who are the go to repair professionals for this camera (repair of dead light meter / conversion to current battery / replacement of broken film take up spool?
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How badly is the takeup spool broken? You might be able to work around a broken tab by just inserting the film at one of the other tabs. Advance the lever partway to bring a good tab up to the top for easy access.
 
No, it's gone... I have used a double stick tape mechanism to get the film winding, but since the meter also stopped I haven't been using this camera as it just became too much of a hassle and i'd like to get it back in proper form.
 
In the past, one of the best experts on the CL in particuler was Peter Grisaffi at CRR LUton , he replaced my light cell, and sorted a transport problem. But he has not returned emails for at least 18 months and now his site mentions he has stopped repairs, after the death of his wife. :(

I would be interested if there's anyone in Europe to be recommended for simple repairs - the VF window class on mine is cracked.
 
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