What is the Contax IIIa?

The Contax IIIa is a 35mm rangefinder camera produced by the German manufacturer Zeiss Ikon. It was introduced in 1951 as an improved version of the Contax III. The camera features a coupled rangefinder and interchangeable lenses, offering photographers a high level of precision and versatility.

What is the film format of the Contax IIIa?

The Contax IIIa uses 35mm film, which is a standard film format for 35mm cameras. This film format allows for 36 exposures per roll and offers good image quality and versatility.

What is the lens mount of the Contax IIIa?

The Contax IIIa uses the Contax bayonet lens mount, also known as the Zeiss Ikon bayonet mount. This mount allows for the use of interchangeable lenses, providing photographers with a wide range of focal lengths and creative options.

Does the Contax IIIa have a built-in light meter?

No, the Contax IIIa does not have a built-in light meter. Exposure settings need to be determined manually using an external light meter or by using the camera's built-in exposure guide based on the Sunny 16 rule.

What are the shutter speeds of the Contax IIIa?

The Contax IIIa offers a range of shutter speeds from 1 second to 1/1250th of a second, including bulb mode for long exposures. The shutter is a cloth focal-plane type, known for its reliability and accuracy.

Does the Contax IIIa have a self-timer?

Yes, the Contax IIIa has a built-in self-timer. This feature allows photographers to set a delay before the shutter is released, making it useful for self-portraits or group shots where the photographer wants to be included.

Is the Contax IIIa a manual focus camera?

Yes, the Contax IIIa is a manual focus camera. It features a coupled rangefinder system that allows photographers to accurately focus their shots by aligning two superimposed images in the viewfinder.

What is the viewfinder of the Contax IIIa like?

The Contax IIIa has a bright and clear viewfinder with frame lines for different focal lengths. The viewfinder also includes a rangefinder patch for focusing and a parallax correction indicator to compensate for close-up shots.

Is the Contax IIIa a reliable camera?

Yes, the Contax IIIa is known for its excellent build quality and reliability. It was manufactured to high standards by Zeiss Ikon and has a reputation for being a durable and long-lasting camera.

Can the Contax IIIa be used with modern film?

Yes, the Contax IIIa can be used with modern 35mm film. Despite being an older camera model, it is fully compatible with standard 35mm film rolls available today.

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Contax IIIa

Name: Contax IIIa
Brand: Zeiss Ikon
Rating: 3.5 (8 reviews)

Rangefinder

35MM

Zeiss Ikon

Germany

Size & Weight

Camera Size for Contax IIIa143 x 82 x 60 mm
Camera Weight for Contax IIIa700 g
Camera Build Material for Contax IIIaMetal

Focus

Camera Focus Mode for Contax IIIaManual Focus
Camera Focus Type for Contax IIIaRangefinder

Exposure

Camera Shutter Speed Range for Contax IIIa1 sec – 1/1250 sec
Camera ISO Speed Range for Contax IIIa6 ISO – 3200 ISO
Camera Exposure Modes for Contax IIIaManual
Camera Exposure Meter for Contax IIIaBuilt-in Selenium Cell Light Meter
Camera Viewfinder for Contax IIIaCombined Viewfinder/Rangefinder with Parallax Correction

Lens & Accessories

Camera Lens Type for Contax IIIaInterchangeable Lens
Camera Lens Mount for Contax IIIaContax Rangefinder Mount
Common Camera Lenses for Contax IIIa Zeiss Sonnar 50mm f/1.5 Zeiss Biogon 35mm f/2.8 Zeiss Planar 50mm f/2
Camera Flash for Contax IIIa No Built-In Flash
Camera Common Accessories for Contax IIIa Leather Case Lens Hood Flash

Battery

Camera Battery Type for Contax IIIaNone
Battery Life for Contax IIIaN/A

Manual

Camera Manual for Contax IIIaShow Manual

Use Cases

Camera Use Cases for Contax IIIa
🏙️
Street Photography
👤
Portrait Photography

Description for Contax IIIa

The Contax IIIa is a 35mm rangefinder camera that was produced by the German manufacturer Zeiss Ikon from 1951 to 1962. It is a highly regarded camera known for its exceptional build quality and advanced features. The IIIa features a coupled rangefinder and viewfinder, allowing for precise focusing and composition. It is equipped with a Carl Zeiss Sonnar 50mm f/1.5 lens, which produces sharp and contrasty images. The camera has a top shutter speed of 1/1250 second, making it suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects. The IIIa also has a built-in light meter, which was a rare feature at the time. It uses a match needle system for exposure control, providing accurate and reliable metering. The Contax IIIa is a favorite among vintage camera enthusiasts and photographers who appreciate the timeless design and excellent performance of this classic rangefinder.

✺ Even more info for you

The Contax IIIa was a part of the Contax rangefinder series, which was highly regarded for its precision and craftsmanship. It was a popular choice among professional photographers and photojournalists of the time. The camera has a durable metal body and a smooth mechanical operation. It has a removable back, allowing for easy film loading and changing. The IIIa uses a standard 35mm film format and has a rewind knob for advancing the film. It also has a self-timer function for delayed shutter release. The Contax IIIa is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including interchangeable lenses and viewfinders. Overall, it is a reliable and versatile camera that delivers exceptional image quality and a satisfying shooting experience.

Example Photos for Contax IIIa

📷 ErdenizS |

📷 DaseinDesign |

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Pros and Cons for Contax IIIa

High-quality build and construction

Excellent image quality

Accurate and reliable metering system

Wide range of compatible lenses

Smooth and precise manual controls

Limited availability and high price on the used market

Manual focus only

Requires separate light meter for accurate exposure

How to Use the Camera Contax IIIa

How to Load Film Contax IIIa

Potential Problems and Fixes for Contax IIIa

Shutter Issues

The Contax IIIa is known to sometimes have shutter issues. This can be due to the age of the camera and the wear and tear it has experienced. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent this issue.

Light Meter Failure

The light meter on the Contax IIIa can fail or become inaccurate over time. It's recommended to have the light meter checked and calibrated by a professional.

Rangefinder Alignment

The rangefinder of the Contax IIIa can become misaligned, affecting focus accuracy. Regular checks and adjustments by a professional can help keep the rangefinder accurate.

Frequently Asked Questions for Contax IIIa

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