[vrolok]

I wonder whether I can improve the viewfinder experience in my Pentax (P)Z-1p by installing an "Intenscreen" focussing screen w/ split-image focus aid. I have found an unsold Intenscreen in a shop nearby, and actual price is very, very tempting (just a tad fraction of what it used to be). I have no experience with these products, so I'd appreciate your help.

The screen I look I for is one w/ split image, see:
Pentax 35mm Beattie Intenscreens
Designed for Z-1.

I assume that the screens in Z-1 and Z-1p are interchangeable, same size. Perhaps, a tad brighter in the Z-1p for what I read. I guess then that the one from Beattie will be ok in my Z-1p though it will yield a wee less gain of brightness.

How about the split-image? Will it interfere with the autofocus?

Cheers

[wkraus]

How about the split-image? Will it interfere with the autofocus?

No. The autofocus is totally independent of the finder image. However, it will probably interfere with spot metering.

[Giklab]

No. The autofocus is totally independent of the finder image. However, it will probably interfere with spot metering.

Fixed

[vrolok]

Ok thanks. Will give it a try and report back...

[manntax]

Ok thanks. Will give it a try and report back...

I wouldn't do it if I were you - You can buy a MZ-M for just few dollars and the screen from there will be a perfect fit for your Z1p. I know because I am using one. Shimming was not even required .

AF is matching the MF perfectly since then and I know that from extensive testing. If exposure differs I am yet to notice than in real life photos.

I hope I was quick enough to save you this high $$ spent on just a focusing screen

[vrolok]

Thank you manntax! Havent bought it yet. However, I am not sure that getting a MZ-M will be any cheaper. I can buy the Intenscreen for ca. 30 $, comes with tweezers too (dont have them). On the other hand, cant find a (cheaper) MZ-M in ebay, here in Europe, right now. Anyhow, will see.

Yesterday I shot a roll with my Z1p, using mainly the K50mm F1.2, most shots a 1.2 ! Developed and digitalized the roll today and, yeah, I better do something with the screen...

Cheers

[manntax]

Thank you manntax! Havent bought it yet. However, I am not sure that getting a MZ-M will be any cheaper. I can buy the Intenscreen for ca. 30 $, comes with tweezers too (dont have them). On the other hand, cant find a (cheaper) MZ-M in ebay, here in Europe, right now. Anyhow, will see.

Hmm strange for me the prices on link provided are just outrageous in range of hundreds ! Anyway Either case for $30 you wont find MZM cheaper I guess so go for it and report back how these screens are

Yesterday I shot a roll with my Z1p, using mainly the K50mm F1.2, most shots a 1.2 ! Developed and digitalized the roll today

samples..samples please !! this just cries for samples ;P

let's see Z1p in action

[vrolok]

Hmm strange for me the prices on link provided are just outrageous in range of hundreds ! Anyway Either case for $30 you wont find MZM cheaper I guess so go for it and report back how these screens are

samples..samples please !! this just cries for samples ;P

let's see Z1p in action

Yeah, that prices are twice as much as the cost of a used Z-1p !!!
I have two Z-1p cameras. I will experiment with one and will get the Intenscreen.

Yesterday night, rock concert in quite a dark environment. Was using Ilford PAN400 pushed at 1600. Not that many keepers but here's one I just posted in my flickr:



Cheers

---------- Post added 11-29-15 at 05:07 PM ----------

Another one:



Cheers

[fwcetus]

Yesterday night, rock concert in quite a dark environment. Was using Ilford PAN400 pushed at 1600. Not that many keepers but here's one I just posted in my flickr: [...] Another one:

Two really nice pix -- and I am "re-reminded" once again that you don't have to gets lotsa keepers to make a shooting effort entirely worthwhile.

[manntax]

Amazing shots, especially like the first one- so well executed !! Please let us know how is that new screen - really curious if the difference is worth the price..

[stevebrot]

The screen I look I for is one w/ split image, see:
Pentax 35mm Beattie Intenscreens
Designed for Z-1.

I was a bit disturbed to find the link above is now 404 and that the Beattie home page has a message that they are no longer in business.

RIP, Beattie ???


Steve

[fwcetus]

I was a bit disturbed to find the link above is now 404 and that the Beattie home page has a message that they are no longer in business.
RIP, Beattie ???
Steve

So it seems -- I recently (maybe just 4 or 5 days ago) posted a working URL to a Beattie Intenscreen page ( Beattie Intenscreen Information ) in another thread, and today the page redirects to an error page ( Camerascreens Page Not Found ) with the message, "Sorry that Page no Longer Exists - Unfortunately, we have to report that the manufacturers of the Intenscreen have decided to discontinue manufacturing this product. - We would like to thank all of the customers that supported Camerascreens over the years.".

Hmmm... First Katzeye and now Intenscreen...

[manntax]

wouldn't be worried too much... the economy and markets doesn't like vacuum - one man's misfortune is another man's opportunity ( not that I like these realities, but here we are)

[fwcetus]

wouldn't be worried too much... the economy and markets doesn't like vacuum - one man's misfortune is another man's opportunity

True, but Katzeye must've been around for a decade or so, and Intenscreen for a couple of decades or more, and currently the vacuum will likely be filled with more "eBay specials" (which likely helped close down the name brands in the first place)...

(not that I like these realities, but here we are)

Indeed.

[vrolok]

I will get tomorrow my Intenscreen. Looking forward to play with it.

---------- Post added 12-01-15 at 08:13 PM ----------

So looks like the one I get is one of the very last ones!
Cheers