Servicing an old lens... worth it?

[jpheneger]

Everything about this camera says it was hidden away until recently. There are almost no signs of wear and tear. It's almost too pretty to shoot with! Haha!

Sent from my SM-G973U using Tapatalk

[John Kasaian]

"Carol in Whittier"? Not much to go on... can I get a bit more detail please?

Carol at Flutot's Camera Repair in Whittier
http://flutotscamerarepair.com/
Beware there may be a waiting list---she does great work!

[Jim Noel]

Not sure how I'd tell the difference between US 4 and f/4. There isn't much information on the lens. The issue this camera has (the only issue) is the shutter does not close once opened (any setting). I am hoping that it just needs an adjustment, or maybe new springs, but not sure where/if it can be serviced.

Just in front of the first number either "f" or "US" will tell you which it is. The lens is a triple convertible, and if my ancient brain is correct, it uses the US system. With both front and rear elements in place the top row of numbers are the correct aperture. That camera is a beauty!

[Jim Noel]

after seeing the photo of the shutter, the lens uses the "f" system. It is a rapid rectilinear triple convertible.

[Tin Can]

Here's a Packard conversion done long ago

I think this camera is a couple years older than yours

However I put in a much newer lens with a bad shutter, but I can also use an old lens like yours, I have 3 similar to yours all broken with excellent glass, just got another broken brass shutter, very dirty, but glass is fine. I would much rather not CLA every lens and don't

One Packard can shoot many lenses! I have done a few modern Packard conversions, but this was the easiest to show right now

Your camera can easily mount an internal Packard

This also has working vintage sync

Konana 5X7 by TIN CAN COLLEGE, on Flickr

Korona 5X7 Packard by TIN CAN COLLEGE, on Flickr

[Chauncey Walden]

Jim, that "F" is the focal length. The aperture numbers are US.