Schroedinger's Camera

[Jim_in_Kyiv]

First - apologies to Herr Schroedinger.

I'm visiting family, and in the course of cleaning out the relatives' analog collection, I came across my great-aunt's Retina IIIS and accessories. Three Schneider lenses, hard case, all very pretty. As far as we know, it hasn't been used at all in decades.

By searching APUG, I came across a website (http://homepages.ihug.co.nz/~Srawhiti/index.html) that focuses on the Retina models. The warning signs started flashing: a string inside tends to break with age and can devastate the innards of the camera. Replacing the cable is onerous - the whole front of the camera has to come off.

So I've got a pretty camera with equal chances of being broken (or breaking) and not worthy of repair or running fine for a while - at least until I try it.

I've fairly well made up my mind on what to do, but what's your opinion - do I try it?

 

[df cardwell]

Have it repaired before playing with it. Then, shoot LOTS of pictures with it !

 

[keithwms]

I think Herr Schroedinger would advise taking both options, simultaneously. I think you'd better follow df cardwell's classical logic

 

[Dinesh]

Put a cat in it!

 

[Don Wallace]

I am with df. Get whatever needs to be done to make sure it is running ticketyboo, then go have some fun.

 

[Bob F.]

I am somewhat uncertain as to what to suggest...


However, there is an equally important principle of Natural Law to consider as well that applies here: Murphy's Law. You know it will snap at exactly the wrong time.

Bob.

 

[Lee L]

Perhaps you should ask Wigner's friend about whether or not the camera should be serviced before you try it.



Lee

 

[Tom Hoskinson]

Have it repaired before playing with it. Then, shoot LOTS of pictures with it !

I consulted Bob (My Manx cat). He would like to play with, then eat the string.

I'm with df!

 

[eddym]

I don't know, but whatever you do, don't hurt the poor kitty!!!

 

[Christopher Walrath]

It'll either look pretty in a box or take more than a few great shots. No brainer for me. Drive the car dry of oil and then wonder what the hell the loud banging is.

 

[el wacho]

how do you know if the string is broken? classic schroedinger....