Re: [Leica] RF framelines

[Bud Cook <budcook@ibm.net>]

I don't have a problem with gaps in the frames.  I have a problem with frames that have
no corners.  If they can do it with the M3, why not with the later cameras?  Those
cornerless frames make it hard to determine if some extraneous detail is sneaking into a
corner of the exposure.

Bud

Emanuel Lowi wrote:

> A bit esoteric, but here goes - for  Bud Cook and Alex:
> I don't think there is any traditional reason why Leica RF framelines are partial.
> The issue is mechanical.
> With the M RF design, if the lines were cut to show in the VF all the way around, the
> inner bit of metal might simply fall out of the frame mask assembly - so you need
> some uncut portions to hold the thing together.
> If memory serves, both the M3 and the M6 versions at 50mm have uncut segments at four
> places. These appear in your viewfinder as sections without the frameline showing
> (because light can't shine through), although the M3 is cut in the corners so you see
> the lines there. With other lenses mounted Leicas show a slightly different pattern:
> eight blank segments at 90mm on the M3, for example. M3s, 4s and 6s all have slightly
> different frameline patterns and many of us have our preferences.
> At the factory level, I suppose the options are endless: you could have a dotted line
> or dots and dashes showing all the way around the frame (the Samuel Morse
> Commemorative M6!) but, aftermarket, I doubt even the most skilled technician would
> want to monkey around with that part of the frame mask assembly. It's all very thin
> material, so we just have to take what we have been given.
>
> Emanuel Lowi