Slight focus resistance at 1–2m on my Summicron 50 V5 — normal?

[Endzeit]

Hey everyone,

I’ve got a Summicron-M 50mm V5 (serial 399xxxx), and I’ve noticed a point of extra resistance when focusing around 1–2 meters. It’s smooth, silent, and honestly only noticeable if I really pay attention — otherwise it feels fine.

Just wondering if this is normal behavior for the V5, or if it might be a hint for a deeper problem that could get worse over time. I could still return the lens if Im unhappy. Price was ok (much less than new anyway).

Thanks in advance for any thoughts!

 

[Rob-F]

It's hard to think of that as normal behavior for a Leica product, but it is not unkown, either; certainly not for a used lens. I suspect there may be a little dirt in the helicoid. So a cleaning and lube may take care of it.

 

[Richard G]

I sent back a lovely Rollei Sonnar f2.8 40 that was sticking slightly. I regret that now. It could not be made right by a good repairer for some reason. My Summilux 50 v2 years ago would always stick slightly trying to focus vertical. These things seem minor but they eat away at you. Hopefully a light service will fix it. My ZM C Biogon 35 would intermittently stop mid focus altogether. Wayne at Camera Clinic listened to me, and then to the lens, giving it a shake: a screw loose in the helical. All fixed now.

They're mechanical objects a few of which occasionally need service. If it's not playing up from long use, it would be a lot worse: fungus.

 

[Bill Blackwell]

It is not normal. A CLA (around $200 thru DAG) would likely take care of it, but personally (unless you got a really good deal on it), I'd send it back.

There was a time I might have let something like this go, but I've developed very little patience for sellers who don't disclose these things.

 

[Endzeit]

Thanks everyone, it´s back to the dealer.