Pentacon Six Frequently-Asked Questions

The Pentacon Six System
by TRA

Frequently-Asked Questions

I welcome questions from people who want to know more about the Pentacon Six system, and have been delighted to correspond with people from many countries since this website was first set up in 2002. I will always do my best to help. However, I must point out that this website is run as a hobby. I cannot guarantee to respond “within the next few hours” – as requested by one enquirer wanting advice on whether to bid in an eBay auction!

I also appreciate suggestions, and enjoy praise!

I hope that most of your questions will be answered by this website.

I am now adding the replies that I have given to some of the questions e-mailed to me. I hope that you will find them helpful.

Here are the links:

Why should I change up from 35mm to Medium Format?
Why should I choose a square format system?
How can I make panoramic photographs with my Pentacon Six?
How do I load my Pentacon Six?
How do I avoid uneven spacing?
What battery do I need for the metering prism?
How do I use the Pentacon Six and Kiev 60 metering prisms?
How do I do open-aperture metering with the Exakta 66 prism?
How do I do stop-down metering with the Exakta 66 prism? (scroll down)
How can I get my Pentacon Six modified to have mirror lock up?
I’ve just finished my first film. How do I re-wind it?
How do I change the lenses on my Pentacon Six?
What does the film type dial on top of the shutter speed dial do?
I want a 20mm lens for my Pentacon Six. Where can I get one?
How do I set the aperture on my Pentacon/Meyer-Optik pre-set lens?
How do I control focus with the Pentacon Six?
I have a chance to buy a lens marked “aus Jena”. Is it a genuine Carl Zeiss lens?
Is it worth paying extra to get a multi-coated lens?
What lens hood or shade should I use for my lens?
Where can I get a Rollei screen for my Pentacon Six / Exakta 66?
What size filters does the 65mm Flektogon take?
Where can I buy a Pentacon Six / an Exakta 66?
How can I make a flash bracket adapter for my Pentacon Six / Exakta 66?
Where can I get an operating manual for my Pentacon Six?
Where can I get a repair manual for my Pentacon Six and metering prism?
What is “flocking” and do I need it?
Where can I get the body of my Pentacon Six re-covered?
Is there a way to find out the exact manufacturing date via the serial number?
Should I buy a Pentacon Six or an Exakta 66?
Should I buy a Pentacon Six or a Kiev 60?
Should I buy a Pentacon Six or a Kiev 88CM?
Should I buy a Pentacon Six or a Norita?
Should I buy a Pentacon Six or a Pentax 6×7?
Where can I get my Pentacon Six serviced or repaired?
Is it possible to modify Pentacon Six lenses for use on a Pentax 6×7?
Is it possible to modify Pentax 6×7 lenses for use on a Pentacon Six?
Wouldn’t it be better to use a digital camera?
What scanner should I use for my Pentacon Six images?

There are also a number of myths about the Pentacon Six. See details of some of them here.

If your question is not answered, you are welcome to Contact me

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