The table below lists the specifications of virtually all Carl Zeiss lenses for the C/Y mount.In addition, Zeiss produced some lenses, about which little is known: some extremely rare optics (a night-vision 210mm f/5.6 N-Mirotar; a Tele-Apotessar 600mm f/4), some macro lenses for use on bellows (S-Planar 60mm f/2.8 and S-Planar 100mm f/4), and some lens prototypes (Tele-Apotessar 500mm f/5.6.
- Zeiss Contax IIa IIIa - CameraQuest
- See Full List On Camerapedia.fandom.com
- Cached
- Contax - Wikipedia
- Contax Iii Serial Numbers Manufacture
Rangefinder
SLR
Medium Format
Accessories
Posted: Sun Apr 12, 2009 1:42 am Post subject: Contax IIa IIIa serial numbers: Orio wrote: Contax IIa P, 97,001-100,000, 11/1949 to 6/1950. This camera has been verified as a fake by a leading UK based Contax II expert and by another Kiev/Contax expert based in Russia. It was made from an early Kiev and given false 1937 serial numbers to look like a Contax II. It is a good fake - but a fake nonetheless, worth a few quid - and it cost me over £130. A Kiev III made in 1949 next to an original Contax III. Once the Contax equipment was setup and the workers were trained, Kiev Arsenal rebranded the Contax II and III and began selling them as the Kiev 2 and 3. The Kiev 2 was like the Contax II in that it did not have a lightmeter, whereas the Kiev 3 and Contax III. CONTAX TVS III / Carl Zeiss Vario Sonar 30-60mm F3.7-6.7 T. Product status C / Normal Serial Number: 004951 Aperture Aperture: 3.7-16 / Number of blades: 5 Accessories: ・ CONTAX camera case Operation: The operation has been confirmed. The self-timer, flash, and rewind are working. The lens extension, aperture blade.
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CONTAX C/Y LENSES THAT FIT CANON DSLR'S
THE FF, 5D, 1.3x AND 1.6x COLUMN HEADINGS
The Contax C/Y / Canon database is a quick reference to see which Contax RTS lenses can be mounted on Canon dSLRs via third party adapters. Most lenses work without issue; however, some lenses extend too far into the chamber and the Canon mirror will not clear the rear element or some other portion of the lens assembly. Most people will only need the FF, 5D, 1.3x and 1.6 columns. Scrolling to the right provides more information about the lenses.
- FF refers to Canon's professional full-frame dSLRs such as the Canon 1Ds, 1Ds Mark II, 1Ds Mark III and 1Dx.
- 5D refers to the Canon 5D, Mark II, Mark III and Canon 6D. The Canon 5D / 6D series have their own column because the 5D's mirror clearance is different than the Canon 1-Series.
- 1.3x refers to the Canon APS-H bodies with a 1.25x or 1.3x crop factor. This includes the Canon 1D family which consists of the 1D, 1D Mark II, 1D Mark IIn, 1D Mark III and 1D Mark VI.
- 1.6x refers to the APS-C bodies, including the EF mount dSLRs (D30, D60 and 10D) and EF-S bodies (20D, 20Da, 30D, 40D, 50D, 70D, 7D, 300D, 350D / XT, 400D / XTi, 450D / XSi, 500D / T1i and 550D / T2i).
WHAT DO 'M', 'S' AND 'I' MEAN?
- Y means 'YES'. 'Yes' means the Contax lens will work on the respective Canon dSLR and most people have not experienced any issues.
- N means 'NO'. In some case the lens or camera can be modified to accommodate some of the marginal lenses. For lens-camera combinations marked 'N', there is not a realistic solution.
- I means 'Iffy'. A lens earns an 'Iffy' rating if some people say a given lens and Canon combination work while other people say the combination did not work. Since there is no clear consensus, 'Iffy' was added.
- ? means no data available.
- Dashes ('-') mean the data is unavailable.
WHY IS THE CANON 5D LISTED IN ITS OWN COLUMN?
Canon 5D and 5D Mark II owners have reported various adapter and lens combinations catching on the mirror. If a lens mounts and performs correctly on the Canon 1-Series family, unfortunately that does not guarantee the lens-adapter combination will operate correctly on the Canon 5D family. Complicating matters, there are variances amongst Canon 5D's. For Contax lenses the Canon 5D's variances in the mirror box have proven troublesome. Unfortunately, this is an issue for Contax lenses more so than Leica R lenses. Probably because the flange thickness on a Canon / Leica R is about 3mm versus ~1.425mm for Canon / Contax adapter.
WHAT ABOUT EF-S MOUNT CAMERAS SUCH AS THE CANON 7D AND 70D?
Canon dSLRs with the EF-S mount such as the Canon Digital Rebels, 20D, 20Da, 30D, 40D, 50D, 60D and 7D work fine. The EF-s cameras have smaller mirrors, so just about any lens will work them.
WHAT ABOUT THE CANON 1 SERIES FAMILY?
Initial reports indicate it is best to consider the 1D family (Mark I, II, III and IV) as having the same clearance as the 1Ds family. According to marketing literature the Canon 1D Mark III sports a new, larger viewfinder. User feedback indicates it is best to consider the 1D Mark III as having the same clearance as a 1Ds and 1Ds Mark II. As of December 2010 the Canon 1D Mark III has proven to be pretty much trouble free. If a lens is marked as 'YES' in the 1.25x and FF columns, then it will probably work on the Canon 1D Mark III.
THE DATABASE SHOWS 'YES', BUT I KNOW THE LENS DOESN'T FIT!!!
Deciding whether a lens deserves a 'YES' can be tricky because one reader may report 'Yes' and another person says it will not work. Most likely the problem is not the lens or the camera body, but the adapter. To address these conflicting reports the 'I' category was added, meaning 'iffy' - as in the lens may or may not work. Detailed comments are provided below (scroll down).
CONTAX AE MOUNT VS MM MOUNT
The original Contax mounts were called 'AE' mounts, later Contax updated the mount to 'MM'. The new MM mount offered more exposure / metering options than the original AE. The mechanical differences between AE and MM are moot since the Canon dSLRs do not activate the aperture mechanism. In terms of resale value, whether a lens is AE or MM may make a difference in its price. In some cases the German made AE versions are worth more than the later made MM Japan versions. And there are some German made MM's which are quite rare, so those lenses tend to fetch a premium. Generally the original AE's were made in West Germany and the later MM's were made in Japan. This is not true 100% of the time, but it is a relatively safe generalization.
On MM lenses the smallest aperture number on the aperture ring is marked green instead of white. Supposedly there are some exceptions, but I have not seen any such lenses. A common internet myth is MM lenses have silver mount and original AE's had a black mount. This is not always true. Some MM's have a tab on the outer diameter. This tab is not a constant from lens to lens, so it is not the best distinguishing characteristic. Some MM lenses have a small pin along the outer edge of the mount.
Some AE lenses were updated (minor redesigns) when Contax changed from the AE to the MM mount. As an example, the rear mount on the 18mm Distagon changed. Almost all the PDF guides on the Zeiss site are MM, not the AE's. Alot of web sites mix the AE and MM data, so there tend to be discrepancies in weight. Fortunately the Zeiss pdf's set the record straight for the MM versions, but the AE versions still hold some mysteries due to conflicting data published on the internet.
In some cases the MM and AE variants are split out in the database. This is intentional because there were some deltas in the lens weight of the AE version compared to the MM version. We have no way of knowing what else changed because the number of elements and groups remained constant. However, Zeiss (Contax) could have changed the design of an element, the composition of an element, lens coatings, sub-assemblies, etc.
SPECIFIC COMMENTS FOR VARIOUS CONTAX LENSES
Before delving into some of these more troublesome lenses, here is some historical data to consider. From 2005-2009 these the Leica R and Contax C/Y pages had equal amounts of traffic; the Contax pages had a slight lead. Then Zeiss started releasing the ZE / ZF lenses around 2010. As of 2016, the Leica pages get 3X more traffic and the Contax page traffic has plummeted. The Zeiss ZE and ZF lenses have effectively killed Contax interest. Just take a look at the Facebook likes - the score is ~200 for Leica vs ~70 for Contax. It is not exactly difficult to figure out why. The new Zeiss ZE's and ZF's offer full EXIF, full auto exposure, generally full support for lens corrections in all major raw file editors (i.e. Lightroom, et al), no fussing with adapters, there's the Zeiss warranty, and you can buy the lenses at B&H, give them a try and return them if you don't like them. And now Zeiss has gone and done one better - updating the ZE's and ZF's to Milvus'. Food for thought.
- Canon 5D dSLR and Canon 5D Mark II
The following applies to just about every Contax C/Y lens 50mm and wider
It is very common to read about one Canon user enjoying success with a given lens and adapter combination, and then reading another stating the opposite. There is speculation about Canon's quality control and the placement of the mirror box. Photographers with multiple Canon 5D's have cited occurrences where a Contax lens and adapter works fine with one of their 5D's, but not the other. Finding the right adapter thickness is often the key. For those planning to use Contax lenses as their primary lenses, you may want to consider purchasing a Canon 1Ds, Mark II or Mark III.
- Contax 15mm F3.5 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
User reports indicate mirror clearance on the Canon 5D Mark II is still a potential problem. This is not a very common lens, so there is not much information available. Some people are using the lens via Live View, but it is a serious kludge because of the mirror clearance issues.
- Contax 18mm F4 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
In some cases a rear retaining ring holding the rear element in place catches the Canon 5D mirror. A thicker adapter resolves problem, but at the risk of losing infinity focus. The problem has been reported with both AE and MM versions. The lens is reported to work fine with the Canon 1-Series bodies and the 1.6x EF-s bodies.
- Contax 21mm F2.8 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II and possibly others
The generally accepted correct 'technical' adapter flange thickness is 1.5mm. In practice 1.425mm has proven to be the best all around adapter thickness. Some have reported 1.2 to 1.3mm being better for the 21mm Distagon. Such a thin adapter could have clearance issues on a Canon 5D - and possibly even the 1-series. Overall, using the 21mm Distagon on a Canon 1.6x or Canon 1-Series will work fine. 5D owners may need to experiment with various adapter thicknesses. My $.02 - save yourself the headaches and get a Zeiss 21mm F2.8 Distagon ZE.
- Contax 28mm F2.0 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
Similar to the 18mm Distagon, in some cases a rear retaining ring holding the rear element in place will catch on the 5D's mirror. A thicker adapter may resolve the problem, but may also compromise infinity focus and could diminish the lens' overall performance given its floating element design. The problem has been reported with both AE and MM versions. The lens is reported to work fine with the 1.6x dSLRs such as 40D and 1-Series bodies. Again, a Zeiss 28mm F2 Distagon ZE is the prudent decision, especially with the Canon 5D bodies. And if money is no object, there is always the Zeiss Otus 28mm f/1.4 ZE.
- Contax 28mm F2.8 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
The 28mm F2.8 Distagon has a reputation for not fitting Canon 5D's. It is the same old story - adapter thickness. The standard procedure is to buy multiple adapters and hope for a magic combination, and/or to try multiple versions of the lens itself.
- Contax 35mm F1.4 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
Generally the 35mm F1.4 is not an issue for Canon 5D owners, but some owners have run into problems. Whether the issue was (is) the particular 5D body or adapter is unknown. The 35mm F1.4 does have a floating element design for improved near focus performance, so 35mm 1.4's can be compromised with with too thick or too thin of adapter. There is also a risk of the mirror striking the rear element if the adapter is too thin. Since 35mm F1.4's can be impaired by a 'cheap' adapter, start with one of the higher grade adapters from Novoflex or Leitax. The Zeiss 35mm F1.4 Distagon ZE is available new and generally a more economical choice. I am not particular fan of the Contax 35mm F1.4 Distagon, so I would opt for the new ZE and enjoy the improved design, auto exposure, full EXIF and not having to mess with adapters (hint hint hint!)
- Contax 35mm F2.8 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
Like the 35mm F1.4, generally the 35mm F2.8 works fine for Canon 5D owners, but some owners have run into problems. Whether the issue was (is) the particular 5D body or adapter is unknown.
- Contax 45mm F2.8 Tessar (Pancake Lens)
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
Surprisingly the 45mm F2.8 Tessar can be another picky lens on the Canon 5D. Like all the lenses here thus far, mirror clearance can be hit or miss depending on the specific Canon 5D and adapter combination.
- Contax 50mm F1.4 Planar
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
Generally the 50mm F1.4 Planar will work on a Canon 5D without issue, but as always, there are exceptions. If this lens does not clear the mirror, I would suspect someone mucked the focus ring and tweaked infinity focus to their preferred taste.
- Contax 50mm F1.7 Planar
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
The 50mm F1.7 is commonly cited as having clearance issues with the Canon 5D. Whether a thicker adapter will resolve the problem is case by case. Whether or not infinity focus is compromised is another concern.
- Contax 100mm F2 Planar
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II and the Canon 1D Series
The 100mm F2.0 Planar will fit; however, there is a metal fine on the rear of the mount. This fin may need to be filed down slightly. For more information, see the 100mm F2 Planar review.
- Contax 135mm F2.0 Planar
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II and the Canon 1D Series
The 135mm F2.0 Planar will fit; however, there is a metal fine on the rear of the mount. This fin may need to be filed down slightly. For more information, see the 100mm F2 Planar review. Note - the Contax version of this lens can sell for a hefty premium, and frankly, its performance can be lacking. The Zeiss 135mm f/2 Apo Sonnar T* ZE is a much better choice.
CONTAX / CANON EF ADAPTERS
Ebay and other similar marketplaces have 100's of cheap adapters offered for sale. The quality of these adapters is often sketchy at best - such as improper thickness, even even thickness, plating that flakes away, poor fit (wiggle / wobble), etc. My preferred adapter is Leitax because they are actually screwed to the Contax lens, providing a very secure connection with no play or wobble. For more info on Leitax adapters, check out my reviews.
A WORD OF CAUTION WHEN PURCHASING USED LENSES
A common discussion on user forums is how to adjust infinity focus. Generally, this can be done by rolling back the rubber grip on the focus ring (if there is any) which reveals the screws holding the focus ring in place. Loosening the screws allows the focus ring to be repositioned. This adjustment can be disastrous on a floating element lens design. These lenses were designed for the exit pupil to be an exact distance from the film plane. If that distance is compromised, lens performance will suffer.
Such adjustments may negatively impact lens without floating element designs too. Since the first person 'optimized' lens for infinity focus with their adapter, it is likely the next person will have trouble finding an adapter that works properly. In effect this adjustment creates the 'good copy / bad copy' syndrome. When buying a used lens - ask the seller if they have made any such adjustments. Ask if the lens has been sent to Leica to ensure proper calibration.
DISCLAIMERS
I try to make sure everything is correct; however, there are no guarantees. Be safe and do your own homework too. If you decide to mount a non-Canon lens to a Canon camera, you are doing so at your own risk. If something feels wrong --- stop and examine the adapter, the lens, etc. Using an Canon EOS / Contax adapter is usually trouble-free; however, there are exceptions. Until you know for sure a given lens and adapter combination works correctly with your camera, go slow and pay close attention.
As of 2011 the database is no longer updated.
The company Zeiss Ikon AG in Dresden was the result of a series of acquisitions and mergers between many other companies involved in the production of cameras, lenses and other optical instruments in Germany. Among the most important were Ica and Ernemann, both of Dresden, Goerz of Berlin and Contessa-Nettel of Stuttgart. In 1926 this phase of consolidation gave way to the golden period that lasted until the end of the 1950s. From there the uninterrupted accumulation of losses led the giant to shut down camera production in 1972. The most obvious problem was the portfolio extremely long, which aimed to offer solutions for all types of photographers in all fields of photography. Only that, at a time when specialization and rationalization were becoming vital, it would already be too difficult a burden to bear, regardless the success of the brand.
It is important to note that Carl Zeiss from Jena, a lens manufacturer, founded in 1846 and still existing today, is another company, independent of Zeiss Ikon, which was formed in 1926 focused on manufacturing of cameras and accessories. Carl Zeiss was from the beginning a reference in the development of the optical industry and provided for many years lenses for Zeiss Ikon to equip their cameras. Zeiss Ikon was also a reference in its field and many technologies and concepts created in its laboratories would become history and set new standards in camera market.
Source: Knipse Aber Richtig, von Wolf H.Döring DWB
Initial reports indicate it is best to consider the 1D family (Mark I, II, III and IV) as having the same clearance as the 1Ds family. According to marketing literature the Canon 1D Mark III sports a new, larger viewfinder. User feedback indicates it is best to consider the 1D Mark III as having the same clearance as a 1Ds and 1Ds Mark II. As of December 2010 the Canon 1D Mark III has proven to be pretty much trouble free. If a lens is marked as 'YES' in the 1.25x and FF columns, then it will probably work on the Canon 1D Mark III.
THE DATABASE SHOWS 'YES', BUT I KNOW THE LENS DOESN'T FIT!!!
Deciding whether a lens deserves a 'YES' can be tricky because one reader may report 'Yes' and another person says it will not work. Most likely the problem is not the lens or the camera body, but the adapter. To address these conflicting reports the 'I' category was added, meaning 'iffy' - as in the lens may or may not work. Detailed comments are provided below (scroll down).
CONTAX AE MOUNT VS MM MOUNT
The original Contax mounts were called 'AE' mounts, later Contax updated the mount to 'MM'. The new MM mount offered more exposure / metering options than the original AE. The mechanical differences between AE and MM are moot since the Canon dSLRs do not activate the aperture mechanism. In terms of resale value, whether a lens is AE or MM may make a difference in its price. In some cases the German made AE versions are worth more than the later made MM Japan versions. And there are some German made MM's which are quite rare, so those lenses tend to fetch a premium. Generally the original AE's were made in West Germany and the later MM's were made in Japan. This is not true 100% of the time, but it is a relatively safe generalization.
On MM lenses the smallest aperture number on the aperture ring is marked green instead of white. Supposedly there are some exceptions, but I have not seen any such lenses. A common internet myth is MM lenses have silver mount and original AE's had a black mount. This is not always true. Some MM's have a tab on the outer diameter. This tab is not a constant from lens to lens, so it is not the best distinguishing characteristic. Some MM lenses have a small pin along the outer edge of the mount.
Some AE lenses were updated (minor redesigns) when Contax changed from the AE to the MM mount. As an example, the rear mount on the 18mm Distagon changed. Almost all the PDF guides on the Zeiss site are MM, not the AE's. Alot of web sites mix the AE and MM data, so there tend to be discrepancies in weight. Fortunately the Zeiss pdf's set the record straight for the MM versions, but the AE versions still hold some mysteries due to conflicting data published on the internet.
In some cases the MM and AE variants are split out in the database. This is intentional because there were some deltas in the lens weight of the AE version compared to the MM version. We have no way of knowing what else changed because the number of elements and groups remained constant. However, Zeiss (Contax) could have changed the design of an element, the composition of an element, lens coatings, sub-assemblies, etc.
SPECIFIC COMMENTS FOR VARIOUS CONTAX LENSES
Before delving into some of these more troublesome lenses, here is some historical data to consider. From 2005-2009 these the Leica R and Contax C/Y pages had equal amounts of traffic; the Contax pages had a slight lead. Then Zeiss started releasing the ZE / ZF lenses around 2010. As of 2016, the Leica pages get 3X more traffic and the Contax page traffic has plummeted. The Zeiss ZE and ZF lenses have effectively killed Contax interest. Just take a look at the Facebook likes - the score is ~200 for Leica vs ~70 for Contax. It is not exactly difficult to figure out why. The new Zeiss ZE's and ZF's offer full EXIF, full auto exposure, generally full support for lens corrections in all major raw file editors (i.e. Lightroom, et al), no fussing with adapters, there's the Zeiss warranty, and you can buy the lenses at B&H, give them a try and return them if you don't like them. And now Zeiss has gone and done one better - updating the ZE's and ZF's to Milvus'. Food for thought.
- Canon 5D dSLR and Canon 5D Mark II
The following applies to just about every Contax C/Y lens 50mm and wider
It is very common to read about one Canon user enjoying success with a given lens and adapter combination, and then reading another stating the opposite. There is speculation about Canon's quality control and the placement of the mirror box. Photographers with multiple Canon 5D's have cited occurrences where a Contax lens and adapter works fine with one of their 5D's, but not the other. Finding the right adapter thickness is often the key. For those planning to use Contax lenses as their primary lenses, you may want to consider purchasing a Canon 1Ds, Mark II or Mark III.
- Contax 15mm F3.5 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
User reports indicate mirror clearance on the Canon 5D Mark II is still a potential problem. This is not a very common lens, so there is not much information available. Some people are using the lens via Live View, but it is a serious kludge because of the mirror clearance issues.
- Contax 18mm F4 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
In some cases a rear retaining ring holding the rear element in place catches the Canon 5D mirror. A thicker adapter resolves problem, but at the risk of losing infinity focus. The problem has been reported with both AE and MM versions. The lens is reported to work fine with the Canon 1-Series bodies and the 1.6x EF-s bodies.
- Contax 21mm F2.8 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II and possibly others
The generally accepted correct 'technical' adapter flange thickness is 1.5mm. In practice 1.425mm has proven to be the best all around adapter thickness. Some have reported 1.2 to 1.3mm being better for the 21mm Distagon. Such a thin adapter could have clearance issues on a Canon 5D - and possibly even the 1-series. Overall, using the 21mm Distagon on a Canon 1.6x or Canon 1-Series will work fine. 5D owners may need to experiment with various adapter thicknesses. My $.02 - save yourself the headaches and get a Zeiss 21mm F2.8 Distagon ZE.
- Contax 28mm F2.0 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
Similar to the 18mm Distagon, in some cases a rear retaining ring holding the rear element in place will catch on the 5D's mirror. A thicker adapter may resolve the problem, but may also compromise infinity focus and could diminish the lens' overall performance given its floating element design. The problem has been reported with both AE and MM versions. The lens is reported to work fine with the 1.6x dSLRs such as 40D and 1-Series bodies. Again, a Zeiss 28mm F2 Distagon ZE is the prudent decision, especially with the Canon 5D bodies. And if money is no object, there is always the Zeiss Otus 28mm f/1.4 ZE.
- Contax 28mm F2.8 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
The 28mm F2.8 Distagon has a reputation for not fitting Canon 5D's. It is the same old story - adapter thickness. The standard procedure is to buy multiple adapters and hope for a magic combination, and/or to try multiple versions of the lens itself.
- Contax 35mm F1.4 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
Generally the 35mm F1.4 is not an issue for Canon 5D owners, but some owners have run into problems. Whether the issue was (is) the particular 5D body or adapter is unknown. The 35mm F1.4 does have a floating element design for improved near focus performance, so 35mm 1.4's can be compromised with with too thick or too thin of adapter. There is also a risk of the mirror striking the rear element if the adapter is too thin. Since 35mm F1.4's can be impaired by a 'cheap' adapter, start with one of the higher grade adapters from Novoflex or Leitax. The Zeiss 35mm F1.4 Distagon ZE is available new and generally a more economical choice. I am not particular fan of the Contax 35mm F1.4 Distagon, so I would opt for the new ZE and enjoy the improved design, auto exposure, full EXIF and not having to mess with adapters (hint hint hint!)
- Contax 35mm F2.8 Distagon
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
Like the 35mm F1.4, generally the 35mm F2.8 works fine for Canon 5D owners, but some owners have run into problems. Whether the issue was (is) the particular 5D body or adapter is unknown.
- Contax 45mm F2.8 Tessar (Pancake Lens)
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
Surprisingly the 45mm F2.8 Tessar can be another picky lens on the Canon 5D. Like all the lenses here thus far, mirror clearance can be hit or miss depending on the specific Canon 5D and adapter combination.
- Contax 50mm F1.4 Planar
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
Generally the 50mm F1.4 Planar will work on a Canon 5D without issue, but as always, there are exceptions. If this lens does not clear the mirror, I would suspect someone mucked the focus ring and tweaked infinity focus to their preferred taste.
- Contax 50mm F1.7 Planar
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II
The 50mm F1.7 is commonly cited as having clearance issues with the Canon 5D. Whether a thicker adapter will resolve the problem is case by case. Whether or not infinity focus is compromised is another concern.
- Contax 100mm F2 Planar
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II and the Canon 1D Series
The 100mm F2.0 Planar will fit; however, there is a metal fine on the rear of the mount. This fin may need to be filed down slightly. For more information, see the 100mm F2 Planar review.
- Contax 135mm F2.0 Planar
The following applies to the Canon 5D and 5D Mark II and the Canon 1D Series
The 135mm F2.0 Planar will fit; however, there is a metal fine on the rear of the mount. This fin may need to be filed down slightly. For more information, see the 100mm F2 Planar review. Note - the Contax version of this lens can sell for a hefty premium, and frankly, its performance can be lacking. The Zeiss 135mm f/2 Apo Sonnar T* ZE is a much better choice.
CONTAX / CANON EF ADAPTERS
Ebay and other similar marketplaces have 100's of cheap adapters offered for sale. The quality of these adapters is often sketchy at best - such as improper thickness, even even thickness, plating that flakes away, poor fit (wiggle / wobble), etc. My preferred adapter is Leitax because they are actually screwed to the Contax lens, providing a very secure connection with no play or wobble. For more info on Leitax adapters, check out my reviews.
A WORD OF CAUTION WHEN PURCHASING USED LENSES
A common discussion on user forums is how to adjust infinity focus. Generally, this can be done by rolling back the rubber grip on the focus ring (if there is any) which reveals the screws holding the focus ring in place. Loosening the screws allows the focus ring to be repositioned. This adjustment can be disastrous on a floating element lens design. These lenses were designed for the exit pupil to be an exact distance from the film plane. If that distance is compromised, lens performance will suffer.
Such adjustments may negatively impact lens without floating element designs too. Since the first person 'optimized' lens for infinity focus with their adapter, it is likely the next person will have trouble finding an adapter that works properly. In effect this adjustment creates the 'good copy / bad copy' syndrome. When buying a used lens - ask the seller if they have made any such adjustments. Ask if the lens has been sent to Leica to ensure proper calibration.
DISCLAIMERS
I try to make sure everything is correct; however, there are no guarantees. Be safe and do your own homework too. If you decide to mount a non-Canon lens to a Canon camera, you are doing so at your own risk. If something feels wrong --- stop and examine the adapter, the lens, etc. Using an Canon EOS / Contax adapter is usually trouble-free; however, there are exceptions. Until you know for sure a given lens and adapter combination works correctly with your camera, go slow and pay close attention.
As of 2011 the database is no longer updated.
The company Zeiss Ikon AG in Dresden was the result of a series of acquisitions and mergers between many other companies involved in the production of cameras, lenses and other optical instruments in Germany. Among the most important were Ica and Ernemann, both of Dresden, Goerz of Berlin and Contessa-Nettel of Stuttgart. In 1926 this phase of consolidation gave way to the golden period that lasted until the end of the 1950s. From there the uninterrupted accumulation of losses led the giant to shut down camera production in 1972. The most obvious problem was the portfolio extremely long, which aimed to offer solutions for all types of photographers in all fields of photography. Only that, at a time when specialization and rationalization were becoming vital, it would already be too difficult a burden to bear, regardless the success of the brand.
It is important to note that Carl Zeiss from Jena, a lens manufacturer, founded in 1846 and still existing today, is another company, independent of Zeiss Ikon, which was formed in 1926 focused on manufacturing of cameras and accessories. Carl Zeiss was from the beginning a reference in the development of the optical industry and provided for many years lenses for Zeiss Ikon to equip their cameras. Zeiss Ikon was also a reference in its field and many technologies and concepts created in its laboratories would become history and set new standards in camera market.
Source: Knipse Aber Richtig, von Wolf H.Döring DWB
One of those jewels was Contax. It was announced in 1932 and had the challenge of competing with Leica, designed in 1914 and commercially available since 1925. Some features, such as the focal plane shutter, range finder and interchangeable lenses were mandatory to compete with the one which was already an absolute market leader. But simply copying Ernst Leitz solutions, originally a microscope maker, to someone with the weighty ancestors who formed the Zeiss Ikon, didn't seem a viable alternative to their engineers.
Contax was the adaptation of several technologies available among companies that formed Zeiss Ikon. The Contax name came, probably from Contessa, along with one of the main features of the new camera: its focal plane shutter that runs vertically. Such concept was already present in Contessa-Nettel's Deckrullo camera and also in Goerz shutters. Another important point was the rapid coupling of the lens with a bayonet instead of the thread used by the Leica.
Still unlike Leica, the Contax back cover comes out completely. This was an argument used in its favor as to the swiftness and ease in film loading. It was also argued, not without reason, that the greater distance between the viewfinder and the rangefinder window provided greater precision in the camera's focus. In addition, a telemeter coupled to the display (launched with the Contax II in 1936) was a clear advantage that Leitz would take almost 20 years to incorporate into its Leica M series in 1954.
Contax can be focused by rotating the lens or by activating the toothed disc at the top of the camera. The idea is that the index finger rests on the shutter release while with the middle finger the photographer fine-tunes focus. As in Leica, the lens locks in the infinite position, there is a click, and you have to release it to focus. This is a condition inherited perhaps from medium and large format cameras and was later abandoned in 35 mm.
The Contax shutter is original not only by running upright, it's all metal instead of the then usual rubbery fabric. Its construction follows a principle used in woodworking in which several slats of wood form a curtain that can be rolled up (visible in the photo above). One advantage of running on the frame's shortest distance is that from the outset the Contax offered the speed 1/1000 while Leica made half of it reaching 1/500. In the first models the shutter dial was in front of the camera and offered 1/25 to 1/1000. However, because 35mm photography lenses were brighter, they made photography possible in darker situations, and so the low speeds, up to 1 second, were also incorporated. Contax is excellent in terms of stability when using low speeds without a tripod. Its body is not a box with mechanisms inside. Instead, the camera is a machined aluminum block with mechanisms around it. This gives it a very solid strength, which in use translates to stability.
The amount of accessories that were created for Contax is something really amazing. In addition to regular filters and lens-shades, also adapters for microscopes, macro photography, stereo photography, mono reflex adapters, tubes and bellows, flash sync, rechargeable film cartridges and, of course, a rich set of lenses and corresponding viewfinders. The lists below present what was offered before and after the Second World War.
Source: Zeiss Ikon Cameras 1926-1939 – D. B. Tubbs
Source: Zeiss Compendium East and West – 1940-1972 – Charles M. Barringer e Marc James Small
Today it seems really strange that a viewfinder camera had so many lenses available. For each focal length it was necessary to adapt a specific viewfinder. There were also adjustable viewfinders for various focal lengths. But even that, it seems awkward for such camera concept.
This camera specifically has a Sonnar 50mm f / 1.5, and Sonnar is a story apart. It was a development from the Cooke Triplet, an original creation by H. Dennis Taylor (1862-1943), who in 1893 proposed a simple lens, with three elements in three groups, luminous and well corrected, destined to portraits due to its small angle of view. From this first idea came many modifications and revisions.
Zeiss Contax IIa IIIa - CameraQuest
In 1919 Ludwig Bertele (1900-1985), self-taught optician at Ernemann, studied this type of construction and decided to use composite lenses instead of simple lenses while maintaining the initial idea of the triplet. He developed the Ernostar f / 2 that equipped Ermanox, a camera forever linked to Erich Salomon's candid pictures, which, thanks to the large diaphragm and improved film's speed, managed to get good images indoors. He registered without drawing attention and using only ambient light, law courts, parties, dinners and diplomatic gatherings.
When Zeiss Ikon acquired Ernemann in 1926, Bertele continued to work, now for the new composition, and took his lens further. In 1931 he patented Sonnar f / 2 and the following year Sonnar f / 1.5 that would equip the Contax (Kingslake). A robust 7-element lens in 3 groups that has been produced at various focal lengths and formats.
See Full List On Camerapedia.fandom.com
Do livro A History of the Photographic Lens – Rudolf Kingslake
The descriptions below address the most distinctive features. There are examples that combine some details of one model with details of another and Zeiss Ikon itself offered transformation and upgrade services between models.
Contax I – Manufactured from launch in 1932 until 1938. It is all black camera appearing in advertisement announcing its launch in 1932 (reproduced above). It has the speed dial on the front of the camera, next to the lens, and the rangefinder is of the rotating type (as in the Super Ikonta) with independent window from the viewfinder.
Contax II – Launched in 1936 with major modifications. The speed dial shifted to the top of the camera and the finish changed to satin metallic. Very important was the new type of telemeter (swing wedge) that was incorporated into the camera's own viewfinder. Slow speeds were also incorporated.
Contax III – This is like the II, but with the addition of a photometer at the top of the camera.
Below, two pages of the general catalog of Zeiss Ikon, 1939, featuring the two Contax I sucessors:
Due to the war, the destroyed factories, the division of Germany, the shortage of the post-war years and all the conditions of the international, fast and highly competitive business of photographic cameras, the simple division between models I, II and III does not account for all the particularities that are found in the copies that were actually produced. Without wishing to go into too much detail, the suffix ‘a' as in Contax IIa or IIIa, means the addition of flash sync. There is also the issue of black or color dial. This refers, among other things that came along with, to speed inscriptions. When all are marked in black, we have a black dial. When 1/50 is in yellow, the faster ones in red and the slower ones in black, we have the color dial. This is interesting because it means an indication of date of production, the black dial was manufactured until 1954 and the color dial from that year onwards until 1962 .
As far as I've researched it seems there is no reliable source of correlation between serial numbers and year of manufacturing for the Zeiss Ikon cameras.
The camera that appears in this article is an Contax IIIa color dial. It is equipped with a Sonnar 50mm f / 1,5. It is therefore a kind of top of the line and was produced in the last years of Contax's history.
The photometer still works. It is protected by a shade that must be lifted for usage. This is an interesting feature as the selenium meters get worn out by light exposure over time. It is interesting that in the catalog shown above this is a feature that Zeiss Ikon most linked to color photography, stating that in it photometry would be more critical. This, perhaps, betrays the mistrust that photographers would find wasteful to pay 35% more just to have a photometer. In fact, we may have been a bit lazy with the automatic cameras or with coupled photometers. It is not so difficult to guess time and aperture, under most of light conditions, and still obtain acceptable results.
Cached
To adjust the photometer, one must set film speed, aim the camera to the subject, and then rotate the larger ring until center the meter's needle. In this position, the aperture / speed pairs for this light condition can be read.
From this viewpoint, on the top of the camera, to the left, are the film advance and the speed dial. On the right are the rewinder and photometer control. The needle window is the photometer.
Contax - Wikipedia
To open the camera and change the film you need to turn around each of the concealed knobs and the back comes loose from the camera body. The small button on the left side releases film for rewinding.
Some pictures taken with this Contax IIIa
Contax Iii Serial Numbers Manufacture
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