Leica III with flash

[farlymac]

This and another thread got me hankering to try out my newly CLA'd IIIf with a Braun 370 BVC. I had tested it before the CLA to make sure the sync worked, but because a shutter curtain needed replacing I had not done a film test. Well, got the camera out Saturday to rig up the flash, and no pop! I tried another flash, and still no action. I checked the PC cords on both flashes and they worked fine, so I'll have to assume the gent who worked on my camera somehow disconnected the sync. I'm beginning to think that camera is cursed.


PF

 

[charjohncarter]

^^^You would think a synch would be simple on any camera. But I've had failures with some flash units on some cameras. I can't figure it out. Have you tried a very low speed on the IIIf with your flash?

 

[Scrambler]

It is going to be hard to do fill flash with a III. Mine for some reason works at 1/50 (red dial IIIf), but in the attic of my mind I remember with the dial on 20 to use 1/25. I still don't see any difference with dial 20 and 1/50. You will have to use painfully slow speed film to use the flash out of doors.

This is what I used until I graduated to Paul Duff remotes from the sometimes reliable Cactus.

Untitled by John Carter, on Flickr

I use a later (though not current) Cactus system. I still find it amazing that a modern wireless link can run an old flash system, and trigger off an even older camera. I haven't quite had the guts to do it, but it should cope with a bulb flash as well.

 

[David Murphy]

I'm learning from this interesting thread. I need to get my non-synced Barnack's synced now!

Here's a tip: Electronic contact cleaner is highly effective at restoring almost any electrical contacts that are showing conductivity issues. It's relatively inexpensive and can be purchased in spray-on or brush on forms. Most auto parts stores sell it, as well as electronic equipment suppliers and a range of online sources.

 

[David Hughes]

Hasn't anyone mentioned reforming the condenser(s) yet? It affects the performance, usually...



Regards,David

 

[Ko.Fe.]

IIIf is the answer. Working and tested. If seller is not speculant, but user, ask to test with flash. It is more about finding cord and flash, than testing.
With IIIF watch for cracks on the plastic VF-RF frame on the back. If it fails, RF, VF lenses get lost and here in no replacement anymore.

 

[farlymac]

^^^You would think a synch would be simple on any camera. But I've had failures with some flash units on some cameras. I can't figure it out. Have you tried a very low speed on the IIIf with your flash?

It worked before I sent it off for repair, now it doesn't. Sounds pretty obvious to me where the problem is. Now I need to send it off to a competent repair person.

PF