Leica M6 rangefinder misalignment

[bessasebastian]

Received a used Leica M6 today in nice condition except for the rangefinder which seems to be offset vertically. The patch and the finder image DO match horizontally though.

As far as I know the vertical offset wont affect focusing (correct me if Im wrong).

Do you know what Leica asks for adjustment? Can this be done locally in an authorized store or do I have to send it in?

 

[Treb]

Vertical RF patch offset will not affect focus. Vertical RF patch alignment will need a special tool from Leica which is outrageously expensive. Behind the red dot there's an access hole for the vertical alignment "screw". Find a Leica tech with the tool.

 

[john_s]

Although vertical misalignment does not prevent correct focusing, it does make it more difficult to judge the spot when there is true co-incidence of the rangefinder images, especially in low light. My M6TTL arrived with this fault (slightly) and it drove me mad until I had it fixed.

 

[Lance]

I have been wondering how you know there is a problem with the finder. Is it very obvious? If I understand Bessasebastians problem, the focus patch looks "out of focus" on the Y-axis but normal on the X. Is that right?

 

[jwinst]

I have been wondering how you know there is a problem with the finder. Is it very obvious? If I understand Bessasebastians problem, the focus patch looks "out of focus" on the Y-axis but normal on the X. Is that right?

Exactly. My M6 is off by a hair as well, but does not really affect my shooting at all. Its usually most pronounced at infinity. If you focus on an airplane at altitude, or stars or something it is pretty easy to see.