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Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 2 Days Ago  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
Yes, retrofocus wide angles were challenging to design. I have t "fat" 35 f/2, and was amazed how it dwarfed the Leica M 35 f2 that I used from 1969 on. Leica, of course, didn't take the SLR seriously even after launching their first Leicaflex in 1964-5, and their first 35 for it was f/2.8. Leica still considered their Leica M RF as the true "professional" line, and in fact they had a 35 f/1.4 in 1961. It was slightly updated in 1967, and stayed in production until 1995, and was counted as a professional lens. Now the Leica SLRs are long extinct, but their film (and digital) M series rangefinders are still going.
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 03-09-2024, 07:57 AM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
Yes - I have a V35 with both color & B&W modules in a recess built for it in my current darkroom. It does a nice job with the 40mm lens designed for it. For B&W I still get better prints with the Omega B22 XL I've used since 1967 as I like condenser contrast better than diffusion. But the B22 XL doesn't fit the space so have to get it out and set up on the bathtub. The V35 is easier for color - but I haven't done that in years.
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 02-22-2024, 07:17 AM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
We have a winner!
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 02-17-2024, 08:49 AM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
Before electronics well done chrome and mechanical details defined quality. What camera is this?
Attachment 627174
Attachment 627175
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 02-17-2024, 06:44 AM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
Yes it is. While I was too busy to restore my ‘62 Beetle i found out about legally imported ones from Mexico. This one was a 2073 model! That’s a US registered 73 chassis (which determines the VIN) restored in Mexico with body and all other parts from a new 2000 Mexican Beetle. Imported as a remanufactured ‘73. Enjoyed it so much the next year got a 2001 for my wife.
But age and life caught up with us, so we sold both. Sure was fun while it lasted.
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 02-16-2024, 01:21 PM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
My first SLR was a Honeywell Pentax H1a bought in 1965 for $149. (In college I couldn't afford the H3v or Spotmatic.) For a few years I used it without a meter for everything: sports, snapshots, portraits, etc. Then I moved on to fancier equipment, but always thought the H1a fit my hands better than anything else.
After retiring in 2009 I started picking up the cameras I remembered from the 1950s-1980s, as they were incredibly cheap at the time. This H1a was exactly like my old one. I had Eric do a full CLA (he sent a picture of it completely dis-assembled on his bench), and it works like new. Yet I finally found digital cameras that I could use just like film (Leica M9, M10) so stopped using the H1a. I did use it for a picture of my last VW Beetle (on new Ektachrome) before I sold the car.
I've finally gone back to using the H1a, and it still feels better than any other SLR I've tried. Need to process a film from it tonight.
Attachment 627090
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 02-08-2024, 07:24 AM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
I agree - the MR / MR4 meters are best for M2,3,4 cameras for the coupling to the shutter speed. They do develop problems with age, and I've had to go through a few and repair corroded circuits to keep them working. They have a 90mm FOV, so easy to tell what the metering area is.
The Voigtlander VC Meter II is my favorite for ltm Leicas and other old cameras. It works very well and looks at home on them.
Attachment 626400
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 02-07-2024, 06:39 AM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
Agreed! Especially since the RF coupling only works with 50mm lenses, and there is enough variation in actual focal length of "50mm" lenses that the RF ay not be very accurate on this adapter. There have been other adapters to Leica that had RF coupling for Contax lenses, but this was the first I'd seen for Pentax, and since I've used both Leica and Pentax since the 1960s I was curious about how well it worked. For the cheap price it works better than I expected. It can also be used with other focal lengths on a Leica M10 or 11 with an EVF (Viso 020) attachment - but Leica users get Leica for rangefinder use.
This would have been more popular in the days when there were almost no options for Leica M lenses except from Leitz, but these days there are many more reasonably priced options available.
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 02-06-2024, 10:23 AM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
I followed you a few years later - 1965 Pentax H1a w/55 f2.0 and 135 preset Tamron. Shot football & other sports, My Leica owning friend was amazed at the quality of that 55 f2 Super Takumar, both mechanically and optically.
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 01-25-2024, 02:57 PM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
While my Pentax MX body is smaller than the Leica M4 I bought in 1968, the tiny rangefinder lenses make for a more compact travel kit. Here's my M4 (still going strong) with my smallest 21mm, 28mm, 35mm, 50mm (Collapsed into camera) and 90mm lenses. Rangefinder cameras are at their best with lenses 90 and under, although I also have a 135mm that works well with it too. I even have a mirror housing (Visoflex III) and 200mm that I've used for sports, but for 135 & longer and SLR is a lot handier. I've carried a Leica M camera and an SLR (Leica or Pentax) together for their strengths for over 50 years.
Attachment 625297
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 01-25-2024, 06:49 AM  
Not ONE mention of Pentax in this article?
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 31
Views: 1,489
I think you just described on-line forums...
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 01-24-2024, 03:55 PM  
Pentax LX Shutter Ping Noise
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 32
Views: 1,427
The LX shutter sound is annoying, especially on a camera touted as top of the line. I got mine in (I think) the 1980s, and the sound was the only thing that disappointed me, compared to my MX, and especially compared to my Leicaflex SL. In the 1960s I went from an H1a to Canon SLRs (FT & FP) and the FP ping drove me to Leicaflex. Wonderful sound and build.
And as Silent Street noted, the 6x7 sound gets your attention - but still sounds solid.
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 01-24-2024, 12:48 PM  
Not ONE mention of Pentax in this article?
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 31
Views: 1,489
Speaking of dinosaurs - I've been shooting rangefinder cameras since the 1960s - along with SLRs (Leica and Pentax) - until I finally found digital cameras I liked. I tried to like a K5, but hate autofocus and the tiny dim VF that does poorly for judging sharpness (compared to an MX or any Pentax SLR). Leica finally made digital RF models that I can use exactly like their film models. Never found a dSLR that was as comfortable for my dinosaur habits. However, a base Sony A7 (once set up as I like it) became my digital LX for all my old film SLR lenses. I could judge sharpness well in the VF without any focus aids, and it was bright even in dim light. I gave my K5 away...
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 01-21-2024, 07:34 AM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
Something unusual: Adapting lenses to work on Leica M Rangefinders isn't just a matter of adapting the flange, but in order to use rangefinder focusing the adapter needs to mate with the RF cam and move it appropriately to focus. I found a new one that does that, but only for 50mm lenses. In order to work, you leave the Pentax lens focused at infinity, and the adapter has its own focus helical with cam appropriate for a 50mm lens. So I tried it with a few Pentax 50 lenses. Here's my SMC 1.2. Focus accuracy with the f1.2 is generally OK, but wide open some errors can be seen. Works much better on my lower 50s, but then I'm better off using a Summicron 50.
Attachment 625162
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 11-26-2023, 05:01 PM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
I agree, but a member of the Leica forum has serious issues with his right thumb, and so is delighted with the Leicavit. Yes, the Leica M3 of 1954 was the first thumb-lever wind Leica in production. They had prototyped the idea on earlier models, but never reached production. I have some 1950s Japanese clones of the Leica III that did add a thumb wind in production, but the shift to SLRs was already in full swing.
Canon thought their version of the Leicavit was so good they built it into the base of their later rangefinder cameras, and also into their first SLR (Canonflex - 1959). But they soon realized it was a mistake and went back to thumb wind models.
In the 1930s Leica also made a wind-up spring motor advance that would fit their rangefinders by replacing the baseplate. Hard to find one working these days.
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 11-24-2023, 08:15 AM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
That Leitz 200 mounted on a Visoflex II and M2 were used by a friend of mine for sports photos at Michigan Tech in the mid 1960s:
Attachment 619351
I have a Visoflex III that I've used with my M4 for macro work since the 1970s. I've also used it with the Leitz 200 on my M9 digital - but the lens works better on a Sony A7 with adapter.
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 11-23-2023, 09:13 AM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
By 1935 Leica had been making 35mm film cameras for 10 years. In 1930 they made lenses interchangeable, in 1932 they added a build-in rangefinder claiming it focused "automatically" - as the lens focus on the film adjusted as you aligned the rangefinder images. In 1935 they introduced the model IIIa, with 1/1000 top shutter speed. Yet film wind was still by the knob, so rapid sequence shots were a struggle. So in 1935 they introduced the SCNOO rapid wind accessory. When loading film you just replaced the normal camera baseplate with the SCNOO that had a trigger winding mechanism. Your left-hand forefinger pulled the trigger over, winding the shutter and advancing the film. In 1950 they introduced the SYOOM (also called Leicavit) that had a longer straight trigger, and fit the slightly larger IIIc, IIIf, and IIIg cameras. They later made a version of the Leicavit for Leica M models, and made it until 2003.
The Canon Rapid winder for their RF models was similar to the Leicavit, and in the 1950s they made it integral with several models. But here's the one that started it all:
Attachment 619244
I sent this one to a Leica tech for repair in 2019 - and just got it back this month,
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 08-12-2023, 05:01 AM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
BTW - Nice M4 & 90 Elmarit! Looks like a 1970 build. Mine is a 1967 build that I bought in 1968, with a 90 TeleElmarit ("FAT" model) as my first M lens.
Attachment 610865
Yes, the R4 was a nice "right-sized" SLR. I bought one to use instead of my Pentax MX as the R4 had selectable metering patterns, and I still liked a spot meter. But the R series hasn't held up well over the years - I have 3 or 4 with electronics problems, while my MX cameras keep working (with the usual light seal replacements). The Leica tech who has done my repairs for years will no longer service Leica R cameras, as he can't guarantee they won't develop further problems. Leica also completely abandoned the R camera line, and sold off all stock of parts - so hard to get them repaired anywhere now. Meanwhile my Leica RF cameras just keep on going - even the one from 1929 still works fine (OK it didn't have an RF in 1929, but Leica upgraded it in 1932 to add one.)
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 08-11-2023, 03:58 PM  
Gear P0rn - post it if you got it.
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9,455
Views: 1,217,431
I've used Leica rangefinders since the 1960s, starting with a new M4 while in college (after a couple years with a Pentax H1a), and skipped the M5 when it came out due to the comments in magazines (before Internet) about the size. Then picked up a used CL in the '70s and used it as my favorite travel camera with its 40 & 90 compact lenses. Great for bicycle touring, tucked in a handlebar bag. I first heard of the CL project a few years before it came out from a Leica rep. Besides the size and weight I loved the spot meter. In '85 I added an M6 which I still use a lot, but it is really more a center-weighted meter. I finally added an M5 and agree is is an exceptional camera - had years of development to refine it. Again I love its very selective spot meter, but prefer the simple LED arrow readout of the M6 for speed an simplicity. They're all great cameras for lenses up to 90mm where very close focusing isn't needed - which is most photos.
But I always had an SLR as a companion for long lenses and closeup work. Used a Leicaflex SL for a few years until the size and cost of lenses became too much - them Pentax came out with the MX (and later LX) and I switched to those. Still have and use all these cameras.
Forum: Film SLRs and Compact Film Cameras 07-13-2023, 08:16 AM  
What was your first film camera?
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 72
Views: 2,409
Kodak Baby Brownie. My sister and I were each given one in 1949. Fixed lens and shutter speed, size 127 roll film - Verichrome Pan as it had enough exposure latitude for simple box cameras.
I found some Japanese 127 film a few years ago and shot and processed a roll. It still works!
Attachment 608546
Forum: Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Other Camera Brands 02-01-2023, 10:38 AM  
Got Squirrel Shots? (In memorial of Rupert)
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 3,136
Views: 321,544
My inside "computer" jokes often involve slide rules. (I still have mine from college) - Now you know how old I am...
Forum: Pentax News and Rumors 12-21-2022, 12:06 PM  
Pentax announcement: Considering developing new film camera
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 692
Views: 46,187
Leica had a big advantage with their user base, as Leica users are used to manual focus and mechanical rangefinders, so adding a new Leica M6 film needs no new skills. I've used Leica M cameras since 1968, and the Leica M9 was the first digital I enjoyed using as I could use it exactly like my old film Leicas. I haven't bought a new M6, as mine from 1985 continues to work fine. There are still a number of private Leica techs who can keep all the old models in top shape, but the backlog for them is months long.

I've helped younger family members get on film with Pentax MX and ME, depending on how they adapt to manual settings and focus. I think modern versions of these would find quick market.
Forum: Pentax News and Rumors 12-20-2022, 05:04 PM  
Pentax announcement: Considering developing new film camera
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 692
Views: 46,187
I bought a new Pentax H1a in 1965 and loved the "feel" of the body shape and smooth controls on the lens, and even the bargain 50 f2 lens did amazing 20x30 enlargements. Eventually moved to Leica as my main camera, and I've used their M rangefinders ever since. However, the MX pulled me back to Pentax for everyday use: still one of the nicest handling cameras ever. When the M lenses moved to more plastic internals the feel of controls and weaker durability I went back to Leica even for SLRs.
I would love an all-mechanical Pentax again, if the size of an MX or even an H3. But all mechanical would need the old lens linkages, and Pentax would need a robust lens market to make enough income. I guess that's where a fixed-lens compact makes sense as an introduction.
Cosina made some of the most recent film cameras - most branded for other companies - so they would have recent expertise to sub-contract. But Cosina now it so focused on higher-end lenses they may not be interested.
Forum: Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Other Camera Brands 07-10-2022, 01:47 PM  
Got Squirrel Shots? (In memorial of Rupert)
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 3,136
Views: 321,544
It's 106F here in Texas this afternoon, so the squirrels are gone searching for air-conditioning. But these youngsters found some shade by the bird feeder outside our kitchen window where in place of them.
Attachment 578329
Leica M10, 135 TeleElmar from late 1960s
Forum: Troubleshooting and Beginner Help 04-17-2022, 06:44 AM  
newbie with Pentax 67 - diopter issue
Posted By TomB_tx
Replies: 9
Views: 1,387
I had the same problem with a 67 meter prism, and found a previous owner had a diopter installed in the eyepiece. I replaced it with a plain glass and all was well.
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