Spotmatic Problem

[richiedcruz]

Recently, I decided to put my long unused Pentax Spotmatic (a relic from my sister's art school days) back into action and had it CLA'ed.

When I started putting film through it, I noticed that the focus would change after I wound the shutter. And when I got my first few rolls of slide film back, the framing was tilted.

I remember that my sister noticed the same thing after she dropped the camera-and still she didn't want to bother with any kind of strap 🙄 I hoped that the CLA would take care of it. And, now, I am wondering whether this is a terminal problem or something that can be taken care of by tracking down a parts camera?

Thanks,
Richie

 

[Mark Wood]

Only a guess but it sounds like the mirror is moving from its correct position during wind-on. The "Classic Camera Repair Forum" might be able to cast some light on it.

 

[jmtok]

Unlikely to be the mirror. Maybe the prism is loose.

 

[vicmortelmans]

Or the focusing screen (seems most likely to me).

Or maybe the focusing screen is fixed, but the rest of the camera is loose (oops, getting philosophical)

Groeten,

Vic

 

[Berk Sirman]

Sounds like the focusing screen and/or prism, and/or the lens that goes between the screen and the prism. The focusing screen can only be reached from the top on spotmatic so you will have to pop up the top cover in either case. It is a very easy repair after you have taken off the top of the camera. Of course you may have to re-set the focusing screen adjustment screws, which is done through the front bottom.

If you have recently had the camera serviced take it back and they should do it for free.

If you decide to do it yourself, become a member of the spotmatic group on yahoo and ask this question there. You will get more detailed answers.

Berk

 

[richiedcruz]

Thanks everyone. I just had it serviced, and I should be able to take it back for an adjustment.

Richie