Re: 90 Tele-Elmarit-M Probs

[Stephen <cameras@jetlink.net>]

Charles Dunlap wrote:

> >To:  >INTERNET:Leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us
> >
> >     If a lens fogging problem with 90mm T-E's "was discussed some
> >time ago on LUG", then I missed it.
>
> As I remember it this discussion centered on the use of sperm whale
> oil as
> a lubricant in the lenses. This provided smooth focussing, but it was
> prone
> to volatilizing if the lens was kept hot (used in the tropics, left in
> a
> car in the summer, etc.). This oil vapor would then coat itself on the
>
> internal surfaces.
>
> The oil coating can be cleaned off, and a synthetic lubricant can be
> applied to prevent the problem from occuring again. In the end the
> problem
> was more of an issue for those buying used lenses. People thought that
> it
> was something to be aware of, but it's not as grave a difficulty as
> having
> fungus grow on a lens.
>

Charlie, you are confusing two different discussions. They are separate
problems.  The sperm whale issue is characteristic of Leica lenses of
the 50's and 60's.

Stephen