Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1997/11/17
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Tom,
I used a Focomat IIa for many years, and I was always looking for a 35mm neg
carrier for it, I believe they're in short supply.
I found the illumination disapointing, I never completely managed to achieve
even corner to corner density. I also was disapointed in alignment
facilities for ensuring true parralell positioning of the neg carrier to the
baseboard, I had to resort to making shims placed under the mounting bracket
on the base - not the best solution...
Having said all that I persevered,, though I never got the autofocus working
either... The pins which slot into the column relate to the different
thickness of the 2 Leitz paper easels available (then), as I had neither of
them, I checked focus after every size adjustment just like a normal
enlarger. I did like the concept of using Leica all the way but I didn't
notice the difference after I sold it.
Eventually I got myself a Durst M800, I've since found a cheap V35 which is
good, great natural alignment, built in MG head and the superb Focotar 40mm
f2.8. Keep your eyes open, they turn up cheap from time to time...
My suggestion would be to look for another carrier which you can have
re-engineered to work on it, I think the chances of coming across one are v.
slight.
jem K
----------
From: 'leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us'
To: KIMEJ44; 'leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us'
Subject: Focomat IIA
Date: 15 November 1997 21:58
Just looked at the above complete with revolving lens holder and 5cm f/3.5
Elmar and 95mm f/4.5 Focotar. Unfortunately no neg carrier/holders. I can
buy or trade for a Fuji 645 folder that I have. Haven't seen any neg
carriers at recent camera show. Anyone ever use one of these? I am current
ly using Beseler 23cII with Nikkor lenses. Would be nice (not necessariy
practical) to use Leitz all the way through the creative process. Would I
be giving anything up in terms of quality output? I do B&W only and VC
papers. Can't afford V35.
Mike Leitheiser
"When the trout are lost, smash the state."
Tom McGuane