Zeiss Ikon Contaflex Analogue camera
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Zeiss Ikon Contaflex I, a 35mm SLR from the 1950s, in good physical condition and tested and working.
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Description from the seller
Introduced in 1953 by Zeiss Ikon Stuttgart, the Contaflex I was a groundbreaking milestone in 35mm photography as one of the very first single-lens reflex cameras to feature a between-the-lens leaf shutter coupled with a fixed eye-level pentaprism. Renowned for its whisper-quiet Synchro-Compur shutter, exceptionally bright viewfinder with split-image rangefinder, and the world-famous Carl Zeiss Tessar 45mm f/2.8 "eagle eye" lens, this classic German camera represents the peak of post-war optical and mechanical engineering. Today, early Contaflex models in clean cosmetic condition are cherished by vintage collectors and classic analog camera enthusiasts worldwide.
KEY FEATURES
Landmark 35mm leaf-shutter SLR camera manufactured by Zeiss Ikon in Stuttgart, West Germany
Fixed, brilliant eye-level pentaprism viewfinder with central split-image rangefinder focusing
Equipped with the legendary coated Carl Zeiss Tessar 45mm f/2.8 prime lens
High-precision Synchro-Compur leaf shutter offering flash synchronization at all speeds
Solid all-metal construction finished in high-grade satin chrome and classic textured leatherette
Distinctive winding and film advance controls integrated into the top plate
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Camera Type: 35mm leaf-shutter single-lens reflex (SLR) camera
Lens: Carl Zeiss Tessar 45mm f/2.8 (Lens Nr. 2511323)
Shutter speeds: 1/500s to 1s plus B (Synchro-Compur)
Serial Number: Production unit with body number engraved on back/base
CONDITION REPORT
Cosmetic: Very good vintage condition with clean chrome top and bottom plates, intact black leatherette covering, and only minor, light signs of age and handling.
Optics: Viewfinder shows good clarity; lens elements are clean and clear with minimal internal dust typical for a vintage optic, free of heavy scratches, fungus, or severe haze.
Mechanics: Shutter cocks and releases, focus ring turns smoothly, and aperture selector operates as intended.
Test status: Collectible piece, visually inspected and mechanically responsive.
WHATS INCLUDED
Zeiss Ikon Contaflex I 35mm SLR camera with fixed Carl Zeiss Tessar 45mm f/2.8 lens
Attached accessory shoe unit
WHY BUY THIS ITEM
A beautifully crafted, iconic piece of German camera history combining legendary Zeiss Tessar optical sharpness with an exceptionally quiet Synchro-Compur leaf shutter mechanism.
KEYWORDS
Zeiss Ikon, Contaflex, Contaflex I, Carl Zeiss, Tessar, 45mm f2.8, Synchro-Compur, leaf shutter SLR, 35mm film camera, vintage German camera, Stuttgart, analog collector
Introduced in 1953 by Zeiss Ikon Stuttgart, the Contaflex I was a groundbreaking milestone in 35mm photography as one of the very first single-lens reflex cameras to feature a between-the-lens leaf shutter coupled with a fixed eye-level pentaprism. Renowned for its whisper-quiet Synchro-Compur shutter, exceptionally bright viewfinder with split-image rangefinder, and the world-famous Carl Zeiss Tessar 45mm f/2.8 "eagle eye" lens, this classic German camera represents the peak of post-war optical and mechanical engineering. Today, early Contaflex models in clean cosmetic condition are cherished by vintage collectors and classic analog camera enthusiasts worldwide.
KEY FEATURES
Landmark 35mm leaf-shutter SLR camera manufactured by Zeiss Ikon in Stuttgart, West Germany
Fixed, brilliant eye-level pentaprism viewfinder with central split-image rangefinder focusing
Equipped with the legendary coated Carl Zeiss Tessar 45mm f/2.8 prime lens
High-precision Synchro-Compur leaf shutter offering flash synchronization at all speeds
Solid all-metal construction finished in high-grade satin chrome and classic textured leatherette
Distinctive winding and film advance controls integrated into the top plate
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Camera Type: 35mm leaf-shutter single-lens reflex (SLR) camera
Lens: Carl Zeiss Tessar 45mm f/2.8 (Lens Nr. 2511323)
Shutter speeds: 1/500s to 1s plus B (Synchro-Compur)
Serial Number: Production unit with body number engraved on back/base
CONDITION REPORT
Cosmetic: Very good vintage condition with clean chrome top and bottom plates, intact black leatherette covering, and only minor, light signs of age and handling.
Optics: Viewfinder shows good clarity; lens elements are clean and clear with minimal internal dust typical for a vintage optic, free of heavy scratches, fungus, or severe haze.
Mechanics: Shutter cocks and releases, focus ring turns smoothly, and aperture selector operates as intended.
Test status: Collectible piece, visually inspected and mechanically responsive.
WHATS INCLUDED
Zeiss Ikon Contaflex I 35mm SLR camera with fixed Carl Zeiss Tessar 45mm f/2.8 lens
Attached accessory shoe unit
WHY BUY THIS ITEM
A beautifully crafted, iconic piece of German camera history combining legendary Zeiss Tessar optical sharpness with an exceptionally quiet Synchro-Compur leaf shutter mechanism.
KEYWORDS
Zeiss Ikon, Contaflex, Contaflex I, Carl Zeiss, Tessar, 45mm f2.8, Synchro-Compur, leaf shutter SLR, 35mm film camera, vintage German camera, Stuttgart, analog collector
Details
Era
1900-2000
Brand
Zeiss Ikon
Model/type nr
Contaflex
Physical condition
Good
Functional condition
Tested and working
Film type
35mm
Estimated period
1950-1960
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