It was only recently that I read about Selenium cell deterioration, specifically relating to the professional Weston Euromaster meters. There are a few experts who can replace the cells and recalibrate the Weston meters. It not cheap in the U.K. at $US 230+ but after doing the repair a Weston will probably last another 40-50yrs! Of course a refurbished meter costs about the same as the repairs, so it’s more about gear continuity in a family.
I’m looking at getting my 1970s Weston refurbished to use with my father’s Voigtlander 6x6 fold out clockwork camera that he bought when based in Singapore in the early 1950s.
I’ll need to use some leather conditioner on the bellows of that camera. In its superb brown leather case it looks immaculate.
Dad is 91. He bought the camera when he was 19. It would be great to take his portrait on it. I guess I could use my DSLR to ensure accurate metering.
Restoring old tech is a lot of fun! I wouldn’t be able to run this blog if I didn’t know at least a little bit about doing this kind of work. Honestly, I’m amazed at how long some of our tools can last. We really ought to repair more and buy less.
Andrew Crossley Sep 7, ‘25
Dmitri Sep 7, ‘25