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Contax IIIaFilm Camera

Contax IIIa

  • Camera Type for Contax IIIa

    Rangefinder

  • Film Type for Contax IIIa

    35MM

  • Manufacturer of Contax IIIa

    Zeiss Ikon

  • Origin Country of Contax IIIa

    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 IIIaZeiss Sonnar 50mm f/1.5 is a common lens for the Contax IIIa Zeiss Sonnar 50mm f/1.5Zeiss Biogon 35mm f/2.8 is a common lens for the Contax IIIa Zeiss Biogon 35mm f/2.8Zeiss Planar 50mm f/2 is a common lens for the Contax IIIa Zeiss Planar 50mm f/2
  • Camera Flash for Contax IIIaContax IIIa Flash No Built-In Flash
  • Camera Common Accessories for Contax IIIaLeather Case is a common accessory for the Contax IIIa Leather CaseLens Hood is a common accessory for the Contax IIIa Lens HoodFlash is a common accessory for the Contax IIIa Flash

Battery

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

Manual

Use Cases

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

Buy This Camera

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KEH

Trusted
🌏 Ships Worldwide
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Kamerastore

Trusted
🌏 Ships Worldwide

Description for Contax IIIa 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 Example Photos for Contax IIIa

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Description for Contax IIIa 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

Video Reviews for Contax IIIa How to Use the Camera Contax IIIa

Video Reviews for Contax IIIa How to Load Film Contax IIIa

Description for 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.

Description for Contax IIIa Frequently Asked Questions for Contax IIIa

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