A frustrating problem for me using my 15mm Voigtlander LTM lens was the inability to use filters with it. I sent the lens to a master machinest to have front and REAR filter adapters made. I had the Voigtlander 77mm filter adapter for the CV 12mm lens modified for use with the 15mm lens.

I got my CV 15mm lens back from the shop last week and I'm pleased to report that I've got the filter problem licked.

1. The shop made me a thin PVC ring that fits snugly over the front end of the 15mm lens. The 77mm filter adapter from the CV 12mm lens now slips on and tightens down nicely. I need to run some test film through to check for vignetting but I think it will be ok.

2. The rear filter adapter for 30.5mm works very well with my Leica If body. The adapter does bind however on the RF cam of my IIIf. It should be a simple matter to modify it to clear the RF cam inside the lens mount. Since I bought the Leica If body specifically to use with the CV 15mm lens I'll leave it as is.

Some people have expressed concerned about rear filters and the optical path being changed. I'll run some tests and let you know what I find. Right now my If is loaded with Velvia slide film; when it's gone I'll load some B&W.

-- Tony Oresteen (aoresteen@lsqgroup.com), December 12, 2001

Answers

A clarification. The rear filter adapter permits the use of 30.5mm size filters. The filters screw OVER the rear barrel of the lens. Why 30.5mm? 'Cause B&H stocks them and B&W makes yellow, red, and IR filters in 30.5mm.

-- Tony Oresteen (aoresteen@lsqgroup.com), December 12, 2001.

Tony

How do you like the lens? Do you use it much? How is the vignetting?

-- Robin Smith (smith_robin@hotmail.com), December 12, 2001.

I've only shot a couple of rolls with it so far. I really like it! It is easy to handle, the viewfinder is ok, and there is some light drop off in the corners wid open. By f/8 it's fine. Since I primarily shoot B&W I like the darker corners.

Vignetting with the front filter adapter is unknow at this time; I have Velvia in it so it will be at least 3 weeks before I get the film back.

-- Tony Oresteen (aoresteen@lsqgroup.com), December 13, 2001.