How to care and store vintage optics: a guide from Vintage Lens Store

Vintage lenses are more than just tools; they are an integral part of cinematic history. With proper care, they can last for decades. This guide explains how to keep them in top condition and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Quick Check Before Shootin

Before every shoot, it’s worth giving your lens a once-over:

• Front and rear elements are clean, free of fingerprints, dust, or moisture.

• Focus and aperture rings turn smoothly without stiffness or grinding.

• No signs of fungus (look for white patches or rainbow-like spots inside).

2. Cleaning Your Lens

Glass coatings on vintage lenses are delicate — treat them carefully.

• Never wipe the lens with a dry cloth (this is the fastest way to damage the coating).

• Use a blower to remove loose dust.

• Wipe gently with a microfiber cloth or dedicated lens tissues.

• For stubborn marks, use a drop of lens cleaning solution or 70% isopropyl alcohol.

3. Proper Storage

The biggest threats to vintage glass are moisture and sudden temperature changes.

• Store in a dry place at 15–25 °C (59–77 °F).

• Use silica gel packs to control humidity.

• Don’t keep lenses sealed in a bag all the time — they need some airflow.

4. What Not to Do

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t store lenses near heaters or in damp basements.

• Don’t take them apart without proper tools and experience.

• Don’t use abrasive cloths or paper products for cleaning.

5. Preventive Maintenance

Even with careful use, grease thickens and dust slowly builds up inside. Every lens benefits from occasional servicing.

A full CLA (Clean, Lubricate, Adjust) every 3–5 years is recommended.
This includes cleaning optics and mechanics, replacing lubrication, and recalibrating focus and aperture.

Service Intervals Depending on Usage Conditions

When cared for properly, vintage lenses can last for generations. Many are passed down, resold, or reused in new creative projects. Treat them with respect for their age, and they will reward you with reliable performance and beautiful images.