Kodak Signet 35

I recently got a Kodak Signet 35, dated to 1953 by the lens serial number.

 

The shutter, and viewfinder/rangefinder windows, needed cleaning.

(I've not posted details about these, as the necessary guidance is given in the links below; thanks to each of them.)

 

The pivot screw of the (double-exposure-)RELEASE lever needed to be tightened correctly into position. I haven't yet found a picture of this part on-line, so here it is.

 

The only additional point to mention is that I had to cut fine slots in the rear lens element mount for the lens wrench.

 

After cleaning and lubricating the shutter (with watch oil), the speeds measured were:-

1/34 1/50 1/97 1/200 [ Averages of 4 runs, standard deviations were small ]

which I think are pretty good for a shutter of that age.

The 1/200 will go nicely with 200 ASA film for the 'Sunny 16' mental adjustments ;-) .

 

This is a solid little camera, and I really like the ergonomics. It sits comfortably in my hands at eye level. The focus lever, shutter arming lever, and release tab, all fall nicely under the fingers.

Shooting the with it in early March, I confirmed that it's comfortable to use whilst wearing gloves.

 

It's quite heavy for its size, and with the well-positioned and smooth shutter release, it's possible to release the shutter with minimal camera shake.

 

The film transport is smooth, and it doesn't stress the film sprocket holes as it doesn't have to arm the shutter.

 

 

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Links to service information:-

 

pheugo.com/cameras/index.php?page=signet35

 

pheugo.com/cameras/index.php?page=downloads

 

retinarescue.com/signet35framecounter.html

 

elekm.net/pages/cameras/repair_signet_rf.htm

 

Done