Minox ML focusing problem/mystery

[SimonK]

I've been using a Minox GT for about a year (cf my GT or ML thread) and decided it was time to move onwards and upwards to the sunlit uplands of Programme mode and LED displays. So I found a nice condition ML with everything apparently working as it should.

Ran a roll of film through it and 75% of the photos were out of focus. So tried again, this time paying attention to the focus and that the front was fully opened - same result. In fact I set up some measured distances and found that with focusing ring set at 90cms (closest focus) the image was in focus at about 25cms.

There is nothing obviously wrong - the focusing ring is lining up with the index mark, the sliding lens mechanism is not worn or sloppy. I've googled the problem and only had one hit (apparently due to a worn lens mechanism) so this ain't a frequent problem. Any insights would be welcome.

 

[batterytypehah!]

I've only ever had a Kiev 35 (Minox copy) but this sounds like your focus ring is not aligned properly. Can easily happen because of that ultra-short throw from near to infinity.

On a mechanical camera, this is a 2 minute fix: Loosen focus ring (usually three tiny screws). Put shutter on B with the back open and ground glass ("invisible" tape works, too) over the film gate. Sight something distant and bring it in focus. Align focus ring with infinity mark without moving the lens and tighten screws.

You may want to check for near focus with a measuring tape, the same way. Sometimes you have to live with inaccuracies at one end or the other.

Now, on the Minox, I suppose you could tape something almost opaque over the meter cell to fool the shutter. It should stay open long enough for adjusting the focus.

 

[SimonK]

I'm sure you're right about the problem; I can't find a way however, to block the shutter open long enough to faff about with focusing against a ground glass.

 

[Platon]

Loose the battery cover, shoot the camera i the darkness, let the battery fall out when the shutter is open. The shutter stays open as long the battery is not in the camera.

 

[batterytypehah!]

Brilliant! You da man!

It so happens that my dad back in Germany picked up a 35 GL for me at a flea market over the weekend. 😀 Should be in my hands around mid-May.

 

[Spavinaw]

Fixed My ML

Fixed My ML

Loose the battery cover, shoot the camera i the darkness, let the battery fall out when the shutter is open. The shutter stays open as long the battery is not in the camera.

Thank you, thank you, thank you--a million times thank you! I have had a Minox 35 ML for years that did not focus correctly. I had considered running a test roll and loosening the focusing ring and moving it slightly between shots. Then determining which exposure was in focus and trying to get the focusing ring back in that same position. Seemed like too much work and way too complicated, so I never got around to it. Now, thanks to you, I have an ML that is in perfect focus. Yeah, we're having fun!😀

 

[batterytypehah!]

Another shout-out for Platon's tip above!

My 35 GL arrived and had the exact same problem on the first roll of film. On closer inspection, it turned out that the lens was frozen and the focus ring was moving on its own. I think we can elevate this one to a known typical issue now 😀

Thanks to Platon, into the changing bag it went and the rest as above. (I found I needed to dial the film speed all the way down to help the shutter stay open.)

On reassembly, the focus ring and the clear cover for the meter cells parted ways (non-violently). It just fell out and I'm not sure what was supposed to hold it in. No traces of glue or holding tabs that I can see. Ideas?

I put it back together without the clear glass for now, but would prefer to fix this properly.

 

[batterytypehah!]

Thanks and no offense, but the day I need professional help with small repairs like this, I will need... professional help! 😛

Tiny dab of Elmer's or silicone will do if nobody has a better idea.

 

[Platon]

batterytypehah, i agree, if you can't fix a Minox 35 throw it away and buy another.

From the beginning there is a tight fit betweem the plastic cover and the focus ring but under the years the fit tends to be "sloppy". I have glued several windows. Use a soft glue like silicone you mention.

This is a very "minimalistic" and simpel camera with primitive electronics. But it have a good to great lens.

God, i wish this was a japanese camera.