Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1996/10/14
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]<< >Can we convert the Zeiss G-Hologon to fit Leica-M?>> In tests of both the Hologon Camera (15mm f8 permanently mounted in a converted Contarex body) and the G1 Hologon there are a few things that come right to the surface. First of all the performance of both lenses appears to be identical -- I tested the lenses under actual shooting conditions with Tri-X and made 16 X 20 prints using a V35 enlarger. I didn't shoot a test pattern or a brick wall but the same subjects using both lenses with their ND filters attached. They are fabulously sharp lenses. In practical use, the Hologon Camera is huge, the sample I had made oversized images on the negative such that they nearly touched each other...no spacing between. Its a hard camera to use from the simple standpoint that its worth so much money...its all mechanical and a bit like the last version of the Panzer tank. The G1 hologon has all of the features of the earlier version but it has a short focus helicoil...I'm not sure what difference this makes but its there and I use it for whatever its worth. On the G1 (or on an M camera...using imagination here) the 16mm Hologon makes a very tight package, because the AF is turned off with the Hologon, the G1 doesn't do its hesitate-search-hestiate-fire routine...simple press the shutter and bang. The brightline finder is pretty accurate and has a level-bubble in it on a prism to help square the camera. If you are interested, the G1 16mm Hologon is the genuine article, made by Zeiss at the factory in Oberkochen and its behavior is consistent with its heritage. The company in Munich that does the conversions to M-mount has a very good reputation for high quality work...at $1200 per conversion (you buy the lens) it should be. Photography on Bald Mountain in California has also done some conversions I understand...I have no information about their work other than it was about half the price of the German conversion. As I am told, the conversion is very simple as the Contax mount leaves plenty of room for the work to be done. I am also told that the conversion, once done, is irreversable. About the wait. Some dealers have recieved and quickly sold their lenses after long waiting periods. Best bet is to call around...I understand that Tamarkin in Connecticut has one for sale now...if your interested. Best. Mike Hintlian