Testing a used Zeiss Ikon

[TobiasL]

I just bought a used Zeiss Ikon and wondering if any one know ways to test it to make sure it function properly? I don't have a lens to test with.

 

[TobiasL]

Thanks! I will check it when the camera arrives 🙂 I only have lenses for Canon and Nikon so I guess I'm out of luck testing with a lens.

 

[anerjee]

Here is a list you may want to check

http://www.clubsnap.com/forums/threads/881763-Checklist-when-buying-used-Rangefinder

 

[capito]

Since you're really limited to fiddling around without a lens, you might as well check the frame selector, see if the exposure meter reacts properly, carefully (!) check if the rangefinder patch moves with the rangefinder cam.

I got a cheap russian lens (see sig) with an adapter for the first tests. Focus was way off, but at least I knew that exposure and frame spacing were good.

 

[TobiasL]

Thanks for the all the tips! It's much appreciated. What is a rangefinder patch?

 

[Neare]

It's the small square box in the centre of the viewfinder, it's what you use to focus.

Are you in the process of getting a lens or are you selling it on?

 

[TobiasL]

I haven't found one of the lenses I'm interested in yet. I usually prefer to buy used but Zeiss lenses aren't that common here in Sweden, even stores don't have them.

I'm considering ordering from Robert White in UK but got to sell some of my unused Canon and Nikon equipment then. Found a Biogon 28mm f/2.8 ZM used but not sure I want that when I prefer 50mm and 35mm focals.

 

[jerry-harwood]

28mm Biogon

28mm Biogon

Don't worry about the above- it is an absolutely stellar lens in all respects; I have one and it beats the leica 28 f2.8 hands down. ``even though you say you like the 35/50 lens, you will be completely surprised by the 28 Zeiss. Go for it !🙂

 

[robbeiflex]

The Zeiss has an electronic shutter so at slow speeds there is no extra winding noise.

Here is a list you may want to check

http://www.clubsnap.com/forums/threads/881763-Checklist-when-buying-used-Rangefinder

 

[TobiasL]

Don't worry about the above- it is an absolutely stellar lens in all respects; I have one and it beats the leica 28 f2.8 hands down. ``even though you say you like the 35/50 lens, you will be completely surprised by the 28 Zeiss. Go for it !🙂

I might buy it, it's better than no lens for who knows how long. I have read some about it and seem to have some nice reviews except some complain about flare.

 

[Phantomas]

To check RF alignment , even without a lens, just stick your finger in there and move the RF lever back an forth while looking through the viewfinder

 

[robbeiflex]

To check RF alignment , even without a lens, just stick your finger in there and move the RF lever back an forth while looking through the viewfinder

How did you know? You didn't spend the day at your desk with a new ZI and no lens on it did you? Tee hee. 😉

By the way, I guess this works for checking alignment at infinity but is not so useful for close-focus accuracy. Oh well, that's half the battle I suppose.

 

[TobiasL]

I have got the camera now, ran through some tests and as far as I can tell it's like new. It's a beautiful camera and what a viewfinder experience! I'm not used to such clear viewfinder, will take some time to get used to.

Now I just need to find myself a decent lens...

 

[hellomikmik]

do not stick fingers in the camera, get the lens, shoot some 'test' film (take notes about where you focus at, what's the exposure...) and judge.

- check if the viewfinder piece is not missing, if it is, get a new one - it's the same that fits nikon FM FE series/ otherwise you might get some dust in the viewfinder
- check the strap lugs if there are not getting grind (not sure about my English here), if they are you might consider to replace the metal rings by something softer
- you may check if some screws are not getting loose

ps: if you will get 28 2,8 you should not have so much problems with RF alignment but i would say it's quite common that it goes off after some time. delicate technology.

my ideas.

 

[TobiasL]

I will be doing some test shots once I get a lens, hopefully within a few weeks. I have pretty much decided on getting the Planar 50/2 if I can find one in stock, I doubt I will find one used.

In my opinion the camera seems like new, not even a scratch. I can't see anything wrong with it at all. The previous owner had only shot about 30 rolls of film with it. But I'll do some more tests once I get myself a lens. So far I'm very happy with it 🙂