R4M + Leitz 21mm Super Angulon = A Match?

[Fragomeni]

Hi all,

Sorry if this has been answered before, if so I can't find anything specifically speaking to this. Anyway, I have a Leitz Super-Angulon 21mm f3.4 that I very much enjoy but which I'm not entirely comfortable using on my M4 and I've begun to consider picking up a R4M for the 21 framelines. I have two primary problems with the 21 Super Angulon paired with the M4; the lack of 21mm framelines (I have no interest in using an external finder) and that the close focus of the lens exceeds the camera's rangefinder capabilities meaning that very close focusing is a guess or measure scenario. I've shot the 21 on the M4 using the whole viewfinder as the frame and while it kind of works I'd still prefer framelines and I would very much like to be able to focus and shoot the lens at it's closest focus distance using the rangefinder (the 21 Super Angulon is one of the closest focusing lenses available).

Just a quick note before I continue. My question is specific to whether or not the 21 Super Angulon and the R4M are a good match. I am not interested in hearing about external viewfinders or anything outside of the specific question.

I would like to hear accounts from those who have used this particular pairing. Also, I have one important question that I'm hoping someone can answer. Can anyone tell me if the R4M can focus the 21 Super Angulon to its closest focus distance without exceeding the camera's rangefinder limitations? If it does not focus to the closest focus of the lens, at what close distance does the rangefinder of the R4M focus stop?

Thanks for the help!

 

[maddoc]

I don`t know about the R4M but have heard (no conformation from me) that the Super-Angulon-M cannot be used with a Zeiss Ikon because the rear element of the lens protrudes to much and would hit the shutter housing when trying to mount it. Since the Bessa line shares much of the design with the Ikon there could be a problem. Best would be to ask Tom A directly, he should know about this ...

 

[kosta_g]

well I know for a fact that the super angulon 21/3.4 doesn't fit on a zeiss ikon... not sure on r4m though...sorry!
someone else will have to vouch for that combo!

I believe the closest rangefinder coupled focus on the r4m is 0.7m

according to stephen gandy's site on the r4m:
"Rangefinder Close focus .7 meter"
see here

 

[mfogiel]

It will not work. You need a Leica body .

 

[Fragomeni]

Hmm, so it sounds like it's not a good match. Thats probably why I couldn't find much info on it. Thats a shame but I guess it saves me some money. The 0.7m limit on the rangefinder wouldn't help me with close focus anyway.

Thanks for the help!