Hehe, thank you, Alan.
I did asked Dan before he suggested posting here for help and now both Dan and I got the file one more time… till we loose it again
)
Google Gemini AI is very helpful. They also gave me this instruction for its use:
The
Kodak Focusing Target (specifically the one used for the
Kodak Medalist) is a specialized calibration tool designed to adjust the split-image rangefinder for precise focus, particularly at close distances. Unlike a standard infinity target (like a distant building or the moon), this target is meant to be used at a specific measured distance to ensure the mechanical cam and the lens are perfectly synchronized.
Physical Appearance
The target is characterized by its high-contrast geometric design, typically consisting of:
- Two Large Triangles: One upright and one inverted, often meeting at their points or arranged to create a distinct vertical break.
- A "Split" Alignment: Because the Kodak Medalist and similar rangefinders use a split-field system (where the top half of the image moves independently of the bottom), the target is designed so that the vertical edges of the triangles only form a straight, continuous line when the focus is perfect.
- High Contrast: It is usually printed in sharp black and white to make the "break" in the line as obvious as possible to the technician.
How It Is Used
The target is primarily used for
close-focus adjustment (typically at
15 feet, as specified in the Kodak service manual, though some technicians use 10 feet for modern precision).
- Placement: The target is placed at a precisely measured distance from the film plane.
- Visual Alignment: The technician looks through the rangefinder eyepiece. If the camera is out of adjustment, the vertical lines of the triangles will appear "broken" or offset.
- Mechanical Adjustment: While viewing the target, the technician adjusts the rangefinder cam follower or the internal adjustment screws until the two halves of the target align to form a single, unbroken geometric shape.
- Verification: Once the rangefinder aligns on the target, a ground glass is often placed at the film plane to verify that the lens is also throwing a sharp image at that exact distance.
Why It Is Unique
While you can focus a rangefinder on any vertical line (like a door frame), the Kodak target was engineered to eliminate "guesswork." The triangular shapes provide a
vernier-like precision; because the diagonal edges of the triangles move toward each other, even a microscopic misalignment is immediately visible to the eye.
Note: If you are looking for a copy to print, members of film photography forums like Photrio often share PDF versions of the original Medalist target, as the physical originals are now rare collector's items.
