Shutter repair shop, possibly in SF/ Bay Area?

[Marco Annaratone]

Hi folks,

I just bought on Ebay a monster Schneider Symmar-S 360mm and the shutter needs CLA. I am not thrilled to ship this beast all over the Country so I was wondering if you know a shutter repairperson around San Francisco you can recommend. It would be great if I could just take it in, as opposed to ship it.

Alternatively, can you recommend someone besides the usual SK Grimes? My search has only turned out relatively old posts.

Thanks a bunch

[CXC]

In San Francisco, I have had good service from Advanced Camera, or possibly Advance Camera, on Columbus near Jackson. Won't be cheap, but estimates are free.

[James E Galvin]

I have had good service from East Bay Camera Exchange, on Broadway at about 20th in Oakland.

[Carol Flutot]

Hi Marco,

I'm in Los Angeles and I would be happy to CLA your shutter, you can
find me at http://www.flutotscamerarepair.com

[Kevin Crisp]

Marco: Unscrew the lens elements from what I assume is a copal 3 shutter, I don't think that lens uses any spacers but look for them, pack the shutter so that nothing can poke in the hole and damage the shutter bladers or aperture leaves and ship it. With the glass attached (won't help the repair technician one bit) it is an incredible heavy lens. This way you also eliminate potential damage to the glass in shipment. And Carol would be happy to fix it and will do a great job, in my experience.

[Marco Annaratone]

Thanks for the answers so far!

Kevin, I thought about shipping just the shutter but I am unable to unscrew the front part of the lens. It is stuck solid. Is there some magic I am not aware of?

The lens---and I assume the shutter (Copal 3 silver ring)---are from 1977.

[Kevin Crisp]

Well, when they're stuck I just turn harder. I guess that isn't very helpful. My approach to all mechanical challenges is more or less along the same lines.

[Steve Feldman]

Marco,

Another vote for Carol. Real craftsmanship.

Kevin - Brute force and ignorance works for me.

[Scott Davis]

Marco-

if you have a rubber jar-lid gripper, try using that. Also, go look for a set of filter wrenches - you can find them at most decent camera stores. I think BKA makes them. You could use one to grip the front element, and twist the shutter with your other hand. If nothing else, it will give you more leverage.

[Kevin Crisp]

The main harm is bending the little levers or ears that stick out on the copal 3, be careful where you put the hand you're not turning with. The flat rubber jar openers do help.