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Message |
    
Olroy2044
Tinkerer
Username: Olroy2044
Post Number: 3
Registered: 11-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, May 12, 2008 - 03:38 pm: | 
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I was just given a Vitessa, and the chrome is blistering on the corners, probably from being stored in the leather case for so many years. How can I stop this from progressing? Also, does anyone know what kind of coating (if any) the f2 Ultron lens has?
[IMG]http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc136/olroy2044/Vitessa/Vitessa-1.jpg[/IMG]
Thanks in advance. Roy |
Glenn
Tinkerer
Username: Glenn
Post Number: 345
Registered: 07-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, May 13, 2008 - 11:54 am: |
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I chemically passivate areas of chrome plating exhibiting this problem. However I am not going to give details; the process is not one for kitchen sink DIY and can cause more damage, if not done properly. Your best course of action is to carefully clean the chrome with a mild detergent. Leave to dry and then wipe over with naphtha/lighter fluid. Then apply a good quality wax polish and work well into the surface. You should apply 2/3 coats of wax initially and then occasionally during use of the camera. Your objective is to seal the surface and stop sweat/moisture penetrating intro the brass base metal.
I use a polish called 'Renaissance Wax' which is used by many museums in the UK, to protect all manner of metal, leather and even paper items. ie firearms, leather bindings, armour etc. This product does not finger mark or leave a 'sticky' finish. You may find a good quality automotive wax chrome protector works just as well. Look for a shop/store that deals with the 'Classic Car' fraternity. |
Olroy2044
Tinkerer
Username: Olroy2044
Post Number: 4
Registered: 11-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, May 13, 2008 - 12:26 pm: |
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Glenn--Thanks for the info! Should I remove the loose, and flaking pieces? Roy |
Olroy2044
Tinkerer
Username: Olroy2044
Post Number: 5
Registered: 11-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, May 13, 2008 - 12:43 pm: |
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The reason I'm asking about the coating is that there is a small spot of fungus (about 3mm wide) on the inner surface of the rear element. I would like to remove it, but I'm afraid of doing more damage. Obviously, I don't want it to spread! Thanks Roy |
Glenn
Tinkerer
Username: Glenn
Post Number: 347
Registered: 07-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, May 13, 2008 - 06:47 pm: |
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If there are loose/flaking pieces, remove them carefully. In similar instance, I used a modeling knife blade to cut back the lifted areas. You may find that a suitable (colour) silver model paint can hide the damaged areas. I have a number of the old Humbrol paints in various silver shades/finishes that have filled in some larger areas of disfiguration.
Not sure about the coating on that particular lens. All I can say is that I have cleaned lenses of the same period from Voigtlander using the usual care, with no adverse effects. I always clean with microfibre cloths. |
Olroy2044
Tinkerer
Username: Olroy2044
Post Number: 6
Registered: 11-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, May 14, 2008 - 10:31 am: |
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Thanks, Glenn. I know what I'm doing after work today! :-) Roy |
