No rangefinder Zorki 1, similar to Leica Standard model

[davidnewtonguitars]

I am interested in shooting with a camera similar to a Leica Standard model, converted from a Zorki 1.
I am pretty handy and think I can build it myself, but am unsure about certain parts such as a finder and a speed indicator "bump".
Does anyone have any advice?

 

[newspaperguy]

L std from FSU

L std from FSU

Someone on this list had Oleg build such a conversion.

Don't recall if the project was successful.. or even completed. :bang:

You might try searching the archives, or you could try checking with the builder - http://okvintagecamera.com/

 

[someonenameddavid]

Why not use a Bessa-L .... or an Argus B if you are looking low tech. If you are in the U.S. I suggest looking at www.shopgoodwill.Com for old stuff.

 

[Rob-F]

I am wondering if the cost of making a Leica out of a Zorki might be no cheaper than a Leica standard, at around $800. You know, by the time you round up the finder and maybe pay a machinist to do a few thing? Hidden costs might add up.

 

[Dralowid]

This conversion (or one from a Fed) comes up for sale from time to time but as others have said, the original is not that expensive particularly if it has some non 100% original parts.

http://www.reddotcameras.co.uk/screw-bodies/4835-leica-standard-model-e-body.html

 

[davidnewtonguitars]

Oh, I like to do detail work and want to try my hand at it. Here is a Standard at a pretty good price, so something has to be wrong with it.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/141939793773?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

 

[mpaniagua]

How about this one?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/LEICA-STAND...932780?hash=item235f8d052c:g:hD0AAOSwSdZWfFBg

Probably made from a Zorki 1?

 

[B-9]

It's not all that difficult,

You will have to find the speed escapement cover from a standard (DAG had one last I looked) and it will likely require a new mounting hole in your top plate.

You'll need to fill a few holes where the RF assembly attaches and the cam arm drops into the crate.

if your motivated, go for it!

Any cheap FED/Zorki body you buy from the FSU will likely require new curtains as well as a good internal cleaning, adding to the complexity of your conversion. Although there is a ton of info online regarding this process, you may investigate if this is something you would be comfortable doing.

 

[Dralowid]

...and a viewfinder from a 35mm folding Balda/Baldinette etc

 

[tunalegs]

I've seen a conversion, and I think there is no reason to do it, honestly. You end up with a worse camera.

 

[davidnewtonguitars]

Here is the outcome of my efforts so far, I am ready to test my distance guessing and aiming skill.

 

[nasmformyzombie]

^^^

I take it the hammer is for striking the shutter release button? 😉

 

[davidnewtonguitars]

"I take it the hammer is for striking the shutter release button?"

It's a metaphor.

 

[johnf04]

Where's the sickle?