Quality camera technicians are hard to find these days, so I thought I would share my recent experience.
The F-1 (second incarnation) I had bought recently had a few problems: the counter did not work and slower shutter speeds were sticky. Otherwise it was fine and I enjoyed taking pictures with it, but I decided to give it a proper CLA and servicing. I wanted to find a repair technician in Canada, but as it turns out, it is next to impossible. I searched various forums, including APUG, for tips on the topic and I finally found Carl at the Allied Camera. Carl is based in Minnesota ans he's been in business since 1973.
Carl fixed the counter and the shutter and CLA-ed the camera. He also re-calibrated the meter for 1.5V batteries. He claims the Wein Cells are fine for voltage, but they are prone to leaking.
As the shutter problems persisted I contacted Carl - he warranties his services - and sent the F-1 back to him. He paid for the return shipping.
I am VERY satisfied with the results and I found Carl's prices quite reasonable for the amount of work he had to do. I would like to recommend him to other APUG members. I now have an F-1 in excellent shape and I am hoping to use it for years to come.
Here are Carl's details for you, please note he closes his business for winter:
http://alliedcamera.com/index.html
The F-1 (second incarnation) I had bought recently had a few problems: the counter did not work and slower shutter speeds were sticky. Otherwise it was fine and I enjoyed taking pictures with it, but I decided to give it a proper CLA and servicing. I wanted to find a repair technician in Canada, but as it turns out, it is next to impossible. I searched various forums, including APUG, for tips on the topic and I finally found Carl at the Allied Camera. Carl is based in Minnesota ans he's been in business since 1973.
Carl fixed the counter and the shutter and CLA-ed the camera. He also re-calibrated the meter for 1.5V batteries. He claims the Wein Cells are fine for voltage, but they are prone to leaking.
As the shutter problems persisted I contacted Carl - he warranties his services - and sent the F-1 back to him. He paid for the return shipping.
I am VERY satisfied with the results and I found Carl's prices quite reasonable for the amount of work he had to do. I would like to recommend him to other APUG members. I now have an F-1 in excellent shape and I am hoping to use it for years to come.
Here are Carl's details for you, please note he closes his business for winter:
http://alliedcamera.com/index.html
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