2 replies to this topic

[Musicman]

About ten months ago I put two brand new Wein 1.35 volt batteries in my Nikon FTN and one brand new Wein 1.35 volt battery in my Nikkormat FTN. For background purposes about 1.5 to 2 years ago I had my Nikon FTN meter totally cleaned, lubed and calibrated (new cds cells as well) for the Wein 1.35 volt batteries.

Today I checked the voltages of all three batteries. The two from the Nikon FTN both read approximately .834 volts. This reading is in line with what I would expect after ten months. The battery from the Nikkormat FTN, however, read a healthy 1.34 volts. Neither camera was used during this ten month span of time.

So, my question is why do you think the batteries from the Nikon were exhausted and the battery from the Nikkormat was still showing a healthy voltage? Could it have anything to do with the number of batteries used in each camera or anything to do with the cameras themselves?

Thanks!

David Moss

[daveFM2]

I don't use the Wein 1.35 mercury replacement batteries in any Nikon, but in my Leica light meters. Remember these are air activated. In general use, again in light meters, life expectancy is a few months at best.

[Musicman]

Thank you for your response. It just seems strange to me that with no actual use the two batteries in my Nikon FTn would drain down whereas the one battery in my Nikkormat  FTn has not. One of life's mysteries I guess. Perhaps the battery compartment in the Nikkormat is more air-tight? Food for thought.