Resoring old glass

[benno]

Hi guys,
I am going to pickup up my old man's M3 soonish. The problem is, all of the lenses are really, really hazy. The old man reckons it's fungus, but (most of) it doesn't have that branching, web like pattern that I've seen in other lenses with fungus - it's just a white haze.

Is there anyone out there that can disassemble the lenses (35 w/ goggles, 50, 90) and clean all of the elements without requiring a kidney as a down payment?

I've also heard that it is possible to get the elements polished and recoated (at considerable expense) - does anyone know about this?

I suspect it may not be a financially wise thing to do, but the camera has a lot of sentimental value. My Grandad bought it back in the early 60's as a complete kit and I'd really like to keep it that way.

Thanks!
Benno

 

[MISH]

i have a 90mm f4 that had the white haze that you discribe... I sent it to DAG and was amazed about how well it cleaned up.... the price was a steal 15 years ago when I had it done but don't know what he charges for it now
BTW 15 years later and it still looks good

 

[x-ray]

Expect around $65 per lens for cleaning.

 

[gb hill]

i have a 90mm f4 that had the white haze that you discribe... I sent it to DAG and was amazed about how well it cleaned up.... the price was a steal 15 years ago when I had it done but don't know what he charges for it now
BTW 15 years later and it still looks good

I have a lense that has that white haze in it. I took it apart and tried to clean it (both sides) with no satisifying results. I used alcohol. I'm begining to think the haze is inside the glass somehow. The lense isn't worth sending off so I was wondering if any one knows what the pros use to clean them with?

 

[gb hill]

Hi guys,
I am going to pickup up my old man's M3 soonish. My Grandad bought it back in the early 60's as a complete kit and I'd really like to keep it that way.

Thanks!
Benno

I think x-rays quote of $65.00 per lense is a small price to pay for a camera that has seen the hands of three generations in your family. Your lucky and blessed to have such an item. Good luck with the cla.

cheers
gb

 

[benno]

Thanks everyone, I guess I'll send the whole kit and caboodle off for a CLA when I can afford to. The body probably needed one by now anyway - doubt it's had one before.

So is DAG the go? Sherry Krauter? Youxin Ye?

I think x-rays quote of $65.00 per lense is a small price to pay for a camera that has seen the hands of three generations in your family. Your lucky and blessed to have such an item. Good luck with the cla.

cheers
gb

Thanks! Yes, I can't wait to get her all cleaned up. I really want to get a pic of all three of us together, I think that would be pretty special.