Re-coating a Rolleiflex these days - Where?

[ediz7531]

Hi all,

I'm wondering if anyone knows of any place that does repolish/recoating on a Rolleiflex lens (Xenotar). I know there used to be Focal Point in the US, but sadly they are no more.

 

[Mackinaw]

Kanto Camera, in Japan, can polish/re-coat lenses. Take a look at their website.

Jim B.

 

[Rayt]

What’s wrong with it?

 

[ediz7531]

Thanks! Will take a look at Kanto.
I'm curious about a 2.8E for sale locally, but there is noticeable coating loss on the taking lens.

 

[Rob-F]

Be aware that re-polishing will change the lens formula. It won't be the same. If not too bad, it might be better to leave it alone.

 

[Rayt]

I have a rolleiflex 2.8 Planar with the front element wiped cleaned of coating. Aside from slightly lower contrast negs I don’t see anything catastrophic. If you already have it then use it and don’t try to fix it. If you are considering buying one then don’t do it.

 

[Freakscene]

Be aware that re-polishing will change the lens formula. It won't be the same. If not too bad, it might be better to leave it alone.

If you can feel any scratches with your fingernail, yes, the formula will change. If not, insufficient material will need to be removed in polishing and the formula won't change.

I would get it done while you can. Of 5 major providers of recoating services 10 years ago, to my knowledge only Kanto remains.

Marty

 

[ediz7531]

Thank you all for your solid advice.

It's to some extent an exercise in curiosity. I know it'd be more rational to buy a camera with no defects on the glass, but if it can be repaired, I'd be interested in that avenue. Although, as stated, if it's not severe coating loss, it's something a hood might remedy well enough.

 

[stevierose]

I would suggest you call Paul Ebel at Paul Ebel Lens Services. He is an expert Rollei repairman with many decades of experience and also works on lenses. I don't know if he can fix your lens, but it is worth a call. At the very least he is fun to talk with.

Mr Paul Ebel
Paul Ebel Lens Services
420 21st Street, North
Suite #2
P.O. Box 141
Menomonie, WI 54751-2280
Telephone (651) 335-8759

e-mail: paulebel44@yahoo.com