Re: [Leica] acetone to clean lenses

["Jeff S" <segawa@netone.com>]

- -----Original Message-----
From: Robert G. Stevens <robsteve@istar.ca>
>Contrary to most opinions, acetone is used to clean lenses by professional
>repair persons.  I have used it myself ( I am not a professional) on older
>leica lenses, and it does not affect coatings.  It will however dissolve
>any of the flat black paint it comes into contack with, and probably other
>paints too.  It is suggested to be used carefully, or for cleaning lens
>element when the lens is stripped apart.

I sometimes use it to remove the remains of crumbled foam rubber, and to
clean (gently!) reflex mirrors. Before applying, I'd caution folks to ensure
that the applicator itself isn't going to melt from this solvent, lest it
leave behind a real nasty bit of goo. Some synthetic fabrics will melt. I
haven't tried it on optics, and because both the Lenspen and ROR+(Leica!)
microfiber cloth seem to work well for me, really don't see any reason to.
Much pleased with ROR myself, and I think lots has to do with the spray
bottle, which makes application to the cloth real easy. When it's empty, why
not try refilling with Kodak fluid and see if it works about the same?