Leica Goggles on non-Leica lenses

[anta40]

Hi everyone,

Just got a Leica M3, on a relatively cheap price. It's still in a good condition too. Yes, another GAS.
The problem is, I just realize that M3 doesn't support 35mm film. So, you have to use this "Leica Goggles" thing.

Can the goggles be used with non-Leica lenses, like Voigtlander or Zeiss, for example?

 

[Saganich]

The M3 doesn't support non-Leitz 35mm lens because there is 0.95 viewfinder which is optimal for 50mm but not possible to have 35mm frame lines; the lenses will mount on the camera no problem. If you use the entire rangefinder frame it is about 40mm so if your not worried about the outer edge of your frame don't sweat the goggles. I know one person who does this without issue. There is also a nice Leica 40mm lens that is great and undervalued. To answer your question no other lens mfg that I know of made 35mm lens with goggles for the M3. If you want the full 35mm frame you will have to purchase a Leitz 35 with goggles. It is not likely goggles from lets say a broken leitz lens could be used on another lens, but that is certainly a good project for a lens hacker.

 

[John Koehrer]

To focus and VIEW through the viewfinder the full 35mm frame you need the Leica lens.
If you don't mind using a separate finder in the shoe, there's an alternative.