How "waterproof" is the 1Ds ?

[Kevin_M_Cox]

I thought of another question also.

Are the EF Extender 2x II and the 1.4x II also sealed to this level of protection?

[Rune_Moberg]

[ QUOTE ]
Are the EF Extender 2x II and the 1.4x II also sealed to this level of protection?

[/ QUOTE ]

According to Michael Reichmann, the answer is yes.

http://luminous-landscape.com/reviews/c-ext.shtml

"In both cases Canon added rubber weather sealing on the mount, designed to mate with the seals on their then new line of Image Stabilized super-telephoto lenses."

--
Rune

[Alan_Goh]

Hi Chuck,

Can I also check if I can get my local Canon service center to "install" the weather seal on a non-weather sealed version of the lens, such as the 70-200 f4?

Thanks.

[William_I]

I second that question... it shouldnt be hard to upgrade the sealing on any of the nonIS superteles.

[NillToulme]

There would be a lot of other places to seal besides just the lens-camera connection, especially on the zooms. I'd be surprised if it's feasible.

Nill
~~
www.toulme.net

[ChuckWestfall]

>>Can I also check if I can get my local Canon service center to "install" the weather seal on a non-weather sealed version of the lens, such as the 70-200 f4?<<

Sorry, no go. Older EF lenses that were not designed for the lens mount gasket cannot be retrofitted.

[ChuckWestfall]

>>what about the 400 2.8L II non IS (the one that came right before the IS version)? <<

William, the 400/2.8L II came out 3+ years earlier than the IS version, and it's been 4 years since the IS versions came out. Is 3+ years "right before" it for you?

>>I am in the process of acquiring one and am curious... if it isnt sealed as well, could you give me an idea of what to expect, or should I just run for cover at the first sign of rain? <<

Since the II is not as well sealed as the IS, you should expect that it will be more susceptible to water damage, especially around the switches, the focusing ring, and the lens mount. That hasn't stopped most pros who own them from using them in the rain. After all, it's their job to get the shot regardless of the weather conditions. But the smarter pros always use some sort of rain gear to protect their long lenses. It doesn't have to be expensive; some people even use plastic trash bags and gaffers tape or rubber bands.

If the water does seep in, it can often be removed before it damages any of the internal components if you are lucky enough to be working at an event where Canon Pro Services is supplying on-site support. If that's not the case, then you'd be well advised to take precautions as mentioned above.