alfonsomartinez

Howdy!! I bought me a new "used" classic camera...the fully manual Kodak Retina IIIc (Type 21). I performed dry-run shutter and aperture tests and for a 67-year old camera, it performs, sounds and looks great. The real test will be when I run some test film through it this weekend (hopefully). I cleaned the 35mm and 80mm lenses--amazingly, they look great for being so old and they were well-cared for previously. The filter kit was a pleasant surprise as well--they looked great too. It should be fun using this l'il gem. I probably should have it CLA'ed for good measure to ensure its longevity. Apart from the international Retina master, Mr. Sherwood in New Zealand, is there another person or camera shop in the USA that could perform great CLA work on it? I live in Texas...but I will not mind shipping it anywhere in the Lower-48.

The risk I was referencing to is from an electronics perspective. For example, if the native electronics is rated for range of voltages that includes 1.5V, the electronics will not "burn up" with the higher voltage or degrade over time from high voltage abuse. The user's manual clearly states 1.35V battery should be used for it's constant level of voltage. I cannot locate any other information about the electronics of the Canon FTb and its specifications. I do not have access to the service manual...so I do know what it states about the meter's electronics specification. So my risk is cautionary--would hate to blow/overload a resistor or capacitor in the camera that destroys the meter's functionality.

I read a web site that provided excellent info about replacements (source: PX625, PX13 or MR9. Replacements for these discontinued Mercury cells.), where I chose to use WeinCELL MRB625 batteries in my Canon FTb cameras. They stated that alkaline batteries do not provide a steady 1.35V...instead it slowly decreases it voltage throughout its lifetime. I imagine the FTb camera could handle the voltage variation--but rather not risk it long term.

IMO...the Canon A-1 hands down! Although the T-90 is a great camera too--I prefer the A-1 [but that is just me]. I also like shooting with the Canon FTb and the EOS 1 for more fun!! Usually I take the A-1 and EOS 1 most times; however, it depends on my mood and what I want to do with my cameras.

My very first 35mm SLR was the Canon T-50...loved it for it was easy and quick in many occasions. Then I graduated to the Canon A-1 soon after...which I still use today.

Love my Canon A-1s, which I still use at every opportunity too. Looks like it is shooting well!