A Question About Zeiss Ikon 517/16

Mark Deneen , Sep 07, 2010; 09:59 p.m.

I've had a huge hankerin' to see what these 120 format cameras are about. I didn't want to plunge to deep into the checkbook, so I found a nice recently CLA'd Zeiss Ikon 515/16 for $125.00 which I will have in a few days. I want to be prepared to be able to use it, and I am not sure what kind of tripod thread or mount this camera will have? I have a standard modern tripod. Do I need an adapter of some sort?

Responses

Professor K. , Sep 07, 2010; 11:10 p.m.

You won't know until it arrives. It may have an American (smaller) or European (larger) thread. European (camera) to American (tripod) adapters are very inexpensive. However, my experience with Zeiss folders is that they are difficult to attach securely to a tripod; the tripod socket on the camera is slightly raised, so you don't have a flat surface (on the camera) resting on the tripod head.

Mark Deneen , Sep 07, 2010; 11:34 p.m.

Oh rats! My first regret then, eh? :-)

Michael Axel , Sep 08, 2010; 01:23 a.m.

American is 1/4", European is usually 3/8", but the Zeiss' I've owned and currently own, all have the standard smaller 1/4"x20 thread.

John Seaman , Sep 08, 2010; 07:16 a.m.

I'm not sure whether it's correct to describe these thread sizes an American or European - in Europe at least both sizes are widely used. If it's the larger size it may already have the adaptors in the sockets, alternatively they should be easy to get. The camera should sit on the tripod fine, use a remote release to avoid movement. The best thing about these is their small size and portability.

Tony Evans , Sep 08, 2010; 09:05 a.m.

The 1/4 in 3/8 sleeves cost cents!

Notify me of Responses