Taking apart a Macro-Takumar 100mm F4?

[Micki-CH]

[calvin83]

[Gardener]

That little rainbow pattern is most likely separation. Very, very common in this lens. There nothing you can do about it - it may sound heartless, cynical or whatever, but if you could handle this repair you would not be asking.

[visualopsins]

Welcome Micki-CH

Can we see a photo of the problem please?

[jamaeolus]

This is what separation generally looks like:

the sharp lines and edges on the inside edge of the problem area are not typical but note the rainbow and a kinda milky bubble, usually to the side of the lens. In the earlier days of lens manufacture a product called Canada Balsam was used to cement lens elements together. Over time this can give way. As indicated above this is not a low level or even medium level repair. The lens must be completely dismantled and element removed the separated with heat or solvent then (a critical step) re-centered as you are re-cementing them. Not for the faint of heart and only worthwhile on the more expensive lenses. Septon at around 200USD each is likely not there. As to your takumar (if indeed that is the problem) you would be best served by first just trying the lens. Many times these lenses can be used and only get a small degradation in contrast and increased flair. If it doesn't meet your needs you can always buy another as the come up frequently on the bay for around 80-100 USD.


The septon is notorious for this problem.