Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1997/02/11
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]>> >This exchange has shown that we are both familiar with Zeiss and Leitz. >Let's return to my original question. Would you please compare the >features and design philosophies of Contax and Retina rangefinder cameras >with those of Leica cameras? To get this discussion rolling, Contax >cameras have a vertical running focal plane shutter and Retina's a leaf >shutter. What were the reasons for these design choices when horizontal >focal plane shutters were fairly standard during that time? The leaf >shutter greatly limited Kodak in its offering of interchangeable lenses, >which could have been very profitable accessories. A more versatile camera >could have increased their film sales. > >Glen Robinson >Glen Robinson Glen: If I can stick my nose in between you and Marc, I can perhaps shed some light on this. The Contax used a vertical shutter simply to get around basic Leitz patents. I was always told that the Contax shutter was superbly quiet, even quieter that Leica's, but that it was not as durable. Apparently it had some silk (?) strings, which were prone to failure. As for Kodak's choice of a leaf shutter, I would think it was because of cost. Kodak, after all, only sells cameras so you'll use the film. They are not lens makers - and so have little to gain by giving you interchangeable lenses. If I'm wrong in this, I'm sure *someone* will show me the error of my ways! Cheers! David Young | To every rule Victoria, B.C. CANADA | there is an exception... youngs@IslandNet.com | and vice versa.