Lens removing IIIa

[cosmonaut]

Well I got my IIIa and shot the first roll and am thrilled. I also have a Color Skopar 35mm I want to use later on. But the 5cm is on it now. The guy I bought it from said it was CLAed two years ago. I guess they would have removed the lens for that? Is there a hidden secret or technique to removing the lens? I don't want to just use brut force without consulting the Leica Guru's.... Thanks

 

[Sonnar Brian]

Basically, make sure the infinity lock is engaged and unscrew it. The first time I removed the Elmar from my IIIf it took more force than "it should have". Sometimes a little dirt/grime gets into the threads and makes it hard to get off.

No hidden locks, ot anything like that. Now, if you buy a Kodak Signet 80, I know where the magic lens release is.