Need some assistance

[Mobius]

In my first post, I stated a virtually new IIIF in box. There is no signs of wear whatsoever. I have been shooting a few pics with less than a comfort level I like. Mostly in focusing this gem. If I look at the light in my dining room, I can clearly see the "ghost" image of the rangefinder. However, outside, even when doing vertical lines like trees, etc. I have extreme difficulty in seeing the images for focusing other than the primary image.



I have read a lot regarding the beam splitter issue of loosing it's silver coating. Other than age of the camera, I don't see any evidence of mechanical issues. My question will age affect this? Or, should I give myself more time to get accustomed to the camera?


On another note, I simply love this camera and the feel of it in my hands.

 

[davidnewtonguitars]

How long have you had the camera? Do you wear glasses while shooting?
I would think it would be harder to see the rangefinder patch in the lower interior light than outside.

 

[Mobius]

I have had the camera less than a week. I wear contacts. During the shooting outside was brightly lit.

 

[lynnb]

It should be contrasty and easy to identify the double image in bright light, as long as you're looking at something that has a contrast edge. Have you adjusted the diopter lever?

 

[Peter Jennings]

Are you sure you are not accidentally blocking the rf window with your right hand while holding the camera?

 

[lynnb]

If you need to replace the beamsplitter mirror, try Nobbysparrow. There are instructions on the web, or you can get a service tech to do it for you.

 

[iphoenix]

Have you tried a yellow or orange "gell" in the rangefinder window?
One substantially improved ease of focus on my IIIF.
Just cut it to fit and it's cheaper than getting the original Leitz equivalent (and I think equally effective).
David

 

[xayraa33]

A weak and faded or dirty or fungus afflicted beam splitter mirror will give you what you are getting, IE: Ok to focus in contrasty lower light and hard to focus in uniform harsh bright light.

I tried the orange filter on the RF window route, but the real solution is a cleaned RF optical system and a fresh beam splitter mirror replacement.

 

[Mobius]

Thank you all the replies. I will try the gel filter to see if that helps. I am pretty sure my hand wasn't in front of the right rf window, but I am a 300 pound gorilla with large meat hooks.

 

[rfaspen]

I can only repeat what has been said, but in a "combined" way.

I think an orange filter (Leica sold one called ORAKO or OKARO) will improve your focusing. It tends to help regardless.

Then, I suspect you'll want to have the RF system cleaned. I would not recommend doing it yourself, even if there are instructions on the web. Its not something I would recommend unless you already have good experience opening cameras and making repairs/adjustments. Personally, I'm reluctant to attempt cleaning my RF system and I've been inside 100s of cameras by now. Many of the first victims suffered the ultimate fate. Probably not what you want for this little jewel.

The often-mentioned CLA is really a good idea if you like the camera (and why wouldn't you?) Make sure you have your camera CLA'd by someone who is competent! Ask here for recommendations -- RFF is the ultimate source for this kind of information. You don't want to send your camera to a hack. It happens too often. Very sad.

In summary, I would use a filter on the RF window and improve the focusing on your camera. It won't necessarily be dramatic, but will help. Then, I would prepare to have the camera CLA'd by a competent person. Make sure to specifically mention the need for attention to the RF system when you submit the camera. When it comes back, it should be an even greater joy to use, and will function reliably longer than you are alive (assuming no groundbreaking advances in medicine allowing us to live into our 200's or beyond).

 

[xayraa33]

Thank you all the replies. I will try the gel filter to see if that helps. I am pretty sure my hand wasn't in front of the right rf window, but I am a 300 pound gorilla with large meat hooks.

You can use the clear area of developed colour negative film to cut out a circular patch to make an ad-hoc orange filter.

Just place it under the chrome ring of the RF that is closest to the film rewind knob, by unscrewing it, placing the circular film piece and screwing the ring back on.