Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2004/07/04
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Simon, the cassette you've asked about will work in almost any of the Leica TM cameras as long as the base has the correct configuration. When removed, the "Aus - Zu" end of the base on the inside will be seen to have a circular plate with a small "cup" or depression in it. When loaded into the camera, the small knob on the cassette will be engaged by the depression (when the base is set to "Aus") as the base is placed back on the body. The disk will also push the spring on the side of the cassette away from the cassette body and unlock the drum. As the base is locked in place by turning the "handle" to "Zu", the disk turns the drum and opens it wide. Once the film is exposed and rewound, the drum is closed again as the handle is turned to "Aus" and the base removed. The Watson and Prinz66 bulk loaders will both handle the Leica cassettes for reloading. The "trick" is to NOT lock the drum open so it can be closed once the film has been spooled. You also have to attach the film through the opening in the cassette as there's no slit for the film to be passed through before placing a cap on it. If you have an older LTM Leica, the Leitz cassettes are difficult - if not impossible - to beat for bulk film use. The cassettes I have are easily 40 years old of more and will still be in useable condition in 2044 unless someone simply mistreats them. Walker