Argus C3 Lens To Leica M Body (Techart Pro LM-EA7) Adapter

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The Argus C3 135-film rangefinder camera, manufactured in Ann Arbor, Michigan from 1939 to 1966, holds a significant place in American history. Approximately two million units of "The Brick" were produced, with many surviving to this day. One notable aspect is the camera's use of screw-thread-mount lenses, which are small and meticulously crafted. Some lenses were designed by Bausch & Lomb, while others came from Enna Werk in Germany or Japan. Although these optics may not be exceptional, they are functional and have a certain charm. Commercial adapters for modern mirrorless cameras are available but can be expensive. However, some adapters offer adjustable flange-to-film distances due to inconsistencies. There is good reason to 3D print this camera: it is relatively easy to do so. Moreover, no other C3-lens-to-Leica-M-body adapters have been seen. With such an adapter, these small lenses can be used with the Techart Pro LM-EA7 adapter. This allows them to focus closer and autofocus. While the LM-EA7 can only autofocus within 4.5mm of correct focus movement, it still works well in conjunction with manual focus: users shift the autofocus range by adjusting manual focus. The last four photos were taken using the LM-EA7 autofocus with the lenses displayed - in the order they are shown in the first image: 35mm, 50mm, and then two shots with the 100mm. All sample images were shot wide open, resulting in images that are not sharp to the corners but still satisfactory. These lenses do not compare optically to modern lenses, but their old-timey character is pleasant in moderation.