Bolex P1 question

[reluctantfilmmaker]

I just bought a p1 to shoot with. The condition was pretty good, but when I got the camera, I noticed that the focus ring that you turn to focus, is very tight and does not move too freely. Is this normal on the P series cameras or is this something I should have addressed. I can focus, but it takes a lot of force. My B&H focus moves quite freely so I was a bit taken back at the amount of force needed to focus the P1. Thanks for any insight!

[BAC]

Try warming the lens up with a hair dryer or something and work it back and forth. It's usually hard grease that causes that. Don't get it too hot or turn it with too much force just gently work it back and forth until it feels right. Sometimes when it cools down and the grease hardens again it can get hard to turn again but I have had good luck with this method.

[reluctantfilmmaker]

Try warming the lens up with a hair dryer or something and work it back and forth. It's usually hard grease that causes that. Don't get it too hot or turn it with too much force just gently work it back and forth until it feels right. Sometimes when it cools down and the grease hardens again it can get hard to turn again but I have had good luck with this method.

So the lens ring should turn smoothly and easily?? thanks!

[Tommy]

The focus ring should turn smooth and freely. It does on mine.