Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/03/30
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]In a message dated 98-03-30 19:50:24 EST, you write: << As did mine. I bought my 21/2.8 ASPH in person at Tamarkin New York and I had the opportunity to look through a number of older metal finders as well as the newer plastic finders. The plastic finders, while having an ill-conceived design, are much brighter to look through. Looking over the plastic Leica 21 finder, I knew exactly how I would fix it if it broke. I therefore purchased a used one for $185. When I got home from NY, same day as buying the lens and finder, and only the second time I put the finder on the camera (and gently, too) the foot broke right off. It was easy to repair myself and has been fine ever since. First I carefully glued the foot back exactly in place with a cyanoacrylate cement, sometimes known as "Crazy Glue", or "Zap-a-Gap". After this set, I mixed a two part epoxy cement, available at any hardware store, and using a toothpick as an applicator, I created a small fillet of epoxy everywhere the foot met the base and where the hardened epoxy would not interfere with sliding the finder onto the camera. This did not interfere with the little lock mechanism although mine fits so snugly that the lock is superflous. In fact, I used a jewelers file to remove a bit of material to make it just a bit easier to slide in. I know this is long, but although the finder should be made differently by Leica it is easy fix yourself better than new. Mike Gardner >> I have the same plastic viewfinder. Leica would never have put their name on this ten years ago. Why are they doing it today? Fortunately I haven't had a problem.....yet! I have a feeling that it has something to do with profit, shareholders and compromises. I for one do not want Leica compromises and I have a feeling that this is a vision into the future......I hope not. Bob Bedwell