How to fix the focus on a folding camera (Part 1)

[@Hartwig08]

Hi Ben, I'm happy to have found your two videos about Agfa Silette II because the distance setting in my camera was no longer correct. Thank you very much for that. I still love this camera despite my extensive analogue equipment, because I inherited the camera from my father. When I got the Camera, there was even film in it, which I finished taking photos of and then developed in my photo lab. It was incredible: in the first images of the film I was a teenager and in the last ones, which I had taken myself, I was seen with my family more than 30 years later! And during this time the camera was lying in a cupboard normally and without cooling. I think that with your instructions I will solve the problem and of course I have also subscribed to your channel. Best regards from Hartwig

[@JimGriffin]

Awesome video! This was a HUGE help getting my focus ring unstuck! I had just bought an excellent condition Isolette II but the focus ring wouldn't move. I didn't know that there were three small set screws on the front piece. Once I took that off, I managed to get the lens unstuck. I cleaned it up and put it back together and it's now working! You saved me from returning it to the seller. Thanks! 👍 😎

[@retrotechmall]

Jim Griffin So glad that you found this helpful. Cheers!

[@AstridMellema]

Thanks! got my Isolette I running again thanks to your video :-)

[@retrotechmall]

Astrid Mellema So glad to hear! Thanks for watching.

[@waynesimon2963]

Nicely done! I had no idea you could correct the focus on these cameras. You learn something every day. Thanks...

[@marcoblondet2795]

Thank you very much for your genial video Ben, very easy to collimate my Isolette lens following your recommendations 🙂👍

[@jamesmoore9511]

Hi: 2 suggestions from my old days 1. Get an egg box (like a dozen eggs come in from the store - plastic) to hold parts and screws. 2. a 3 or 4 prong mini screw holder (it grips little screws like spider legs) to get them started in the hole.

[@retrotechmall]

Thanks for the tips!

[@danem2215]

I have a very similar Isolette that seems to have problems focusing below infinity. Might try this soon

[@sjmcrae]

Hey, that is great! Very clearly explained and some great tips. Thanks!

[@retrotechmall]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Marcel38281]

I got mine unstuck by using a blowdryer on the low setting and putting in in front of the camera with a bit of distance and then left it blowing hot air against the lens for 10 mins. After that I used a bit of force and twisted it and it became unstuck

[@Alex_Gril]

Hi! Thanks for video! Update the link for tool kit please!

[@retrotechmall]

Updated. Thanks! SOONAN 117 in 1 Precision Screwdriver Set, Magnetic Repair Tool Kit for iPhone Series/Xbox Series/PS3/PS4/Nintendo Switch/iPad/Tablet/Laptop/Watch/Cellphone/PC/Camera/Electronic www.amazon.ca/dp/B07V5N4X1T/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_W826M5HYN34W584W6ZN8

[@photocastillo]

very nice video! I bought the same camera on a flee market and I fixed the focus thanks to this video! Just bought a zenza Bronica s2a. Do you have any experience of changing the view finder on one of those?

[@retrotechmall]

So glad to hear :-) If you are referring to the waist level viewfinder, I have disassembled one on a tlr for cleaning before, was not too difficult to do. I have not palyed with that particular camera before. Do check on youtube for tutorials, you might get lucky.

[@smallcnclathes]

Part 2 did not come up for me, can you put a link in the description please?

[@retrotechmall]

Thanks, here is part 2, also added to the discription: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGqUinWDn6aZoqs

[@AndrewBroussardWatercolors]

Hello! Thank you for sharing this. I am unable to remove/unscrew the lens part (im able to get the first part off with the screws) any suggestions or leads?

[@retrotechmall]

Hmm, I would suggest a heat gun to loosen it a bit. However, I'd be very careful around the glass with a heat gun. Good luck!

[@juliettehazeleger5311]

How did you end up doing it I have the same problem

[@AndrewBroussardWatercolors]

I was unsuccessful unfortunately

[@juliettehazeleger5311]

@@AndrewBroussardWatercolors oh no. i have tried heat but it would not budge.

[@AndrewBroussardWatercolors]

I think, from what i remember, it was an old type of green that turned into a blue/green crystalized glue