Brent wrote:
How do I know if the meter is not working properly?


1) Compare it to another at various light levels framing the exact same,
evenly illuminated, subject. Keep in mind that no two meters will ever
agree perfectly, but if they're within +/- 1/2 a stop of each other,
that's pretty good.
Also, keep in mind the battery being used: If the difference between the
Photomic and the reference you're using is constant, that's ok too.

2) Fiddle with the diaphragm & shutter speed dials: The meter needle
should move smoothly & regularly. If not, turn the diaphram through its
range a few dozen times and check again.

Make sure your lens is "indexed" properly and the battery is ok (press
top meter button down to check).


Often the variable resistor and/or the on/off button contact inside the
Photomic are dirty. This results in a "jumpy" meter needle and
non-linear results at different light levels.
This is a fairly easy fix for the dedicated fiddler, and there was a guy
with a web page offering Photomic overhauls for $90 as well as a good
how-to descrition.

The worst case scenario is that the CdS cells have lost sensitivity and
need to be replaced (though that's rarely the case). While new original
parts are no longer available, any good repairperson should be able to
get hold of parts one way or another (millions of these cameras were made).

Chris