Generic Wide Angle Lenses

[Craig66]

I have seen posts referring to the use of cheap generic above water WAL with lots of success and although I am sure that long term a good underwater WAL is a lot better choice. I do have a cheaper above water WAL that I would want to experiment with but I do have a question:

The WAL comes as two components, A macro lens and a WAL. I know that I will need to burp the space between the Macro and the WAL once in the water but I am confused about the space between the MAcro and the housing - is that space meant to be dry or is that meant to be filled with water as well and therefore will also need to be burped?

Thanks

Craig

 

[umberth]

You're propably talking about the Zeikos 72mm available on Ebay. I got it too. I've taken it apart and sealed the inner glass with silicone. On my Canon WP-V2 I don't use the macro lens at all but I have to use a step down ring to be able to attach the WAL. As you mention, I also have to burp it underwater, otherwise the air is trapped. After I do it, it works perfectly !!!

Some picts:
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a396/royalcamera/DSC_6265.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a396/royalcamera/DSC_6266.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a396/royalcamera/DSC_6268.jpg

and video:
http://vimeo.com/22516713

 

[mrivken]

I've taken it apart and sealed the inner glass with silicone.

Could you, please, explain a little more: what type of silicon you used and how deep you took that lens ?

Thank you,

Michael

 

[umbert]

I think I used this one :
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a396/royalcamera/P4190001.jpg

I didn't go any deeper then 10 feet as I just made my project and test it only in pool.
I'll be diving on USS Oriskany by the end of May, so I'll be able to tell you some more.

 

[1c11]

Hello, any news about the lens? I was looking after a wide angle wet lens but then rembered the DIY options. Did it work?

 

[umbert]

Yes, works perfectly since day 1, still using it.