Brazile wrote: ↑Wed Dec 08, 2021 7:39 am
Look forward to seeing some test shots!
Robert
Thanks Robert - will post what I get.
Okay, so the lens cleaned up pretty nicely, so far. There was haze/grime/crud on the surfaces of the glass that came off with not much effort. Maybe some light cleaning marks in the front element, but nothing to write home about. There is haze between the front two pieces of glass. I need a rubber stopper to remove the retaining ring on that group - it isn't cut for a spanner. I'll have to get an appropriate sized one, and drill it out to clear the glass. Later problem, the glass isn't that hazy.
The aperture is a weird one. Doesn't work, or at least, works very begrudgingly. But then I took the lens apart. With the barrel disassembled (front group unscrewed from the barrel, rear part of the barrel removed from the flange), the aperture works wonderfully. Start replacing the front glass, still works, get it close to seated, and the aperture freezes up. It's the damnedest thing. It's almost as if the rear section of the barrel is slightly out of round, but if it is, I can't see it. It's robust, so I doubt it would be that easily tweaked. Going to take some ciphering.
Will probable set the aperture to fully open, or just shy of it, and do some test shots with it to see if it's worth worrying about. My guess is it will be. Nice little lens. I have an old lensboard blank of really nice walnut, and one cherry one left. Not sure which this will go onto, but will get it mounted hopefully in short order (jinxing myself, to be sure).
Stay tuned.
[EDIT]
After disassembly and reassembly several times, the completed lens is now working correctly. I must've inadvertently done something right. Not sure how long it will last, but the aperture adjustment is smooth and easy.
Found the two lensboard blanks. Think I'm going to put this on the walnut board, which will need further milling. That'll be fun.
