Contax

Contax is a brand name primarily known for its line of cameras and photographic equipment. The brand was first established in 1932 by the German company Zeiss Ikon, and has since been associated with high-quality, professional-grade equipment.

History

The Zeiss Ikon company, based in Dresden, Germany, first introduced the Contax brand in 1932. The initial model, the Contax I, was designed to compete with the Leica cameras that were popular at the time. The Contax I was notable for its advanced features, including a combined range/viewfinder and a bayonet lens mount.

In the years following, Zeiss Ikon continued to develop and refine the Contax line, introducing models such as the Contax II and III, which featured built-in light meters, and the Contax S, which was the first 35mm SLR camera to use a pentaprism viewfinder.

Models

Over the years, a variety of Contax models have been produced, each with its own unique features and specifications. Some of the most notable models include:

• Contax I: The original model, introduced in 1932. Known for its advanced features and high-quality construction.
• Contax II and III: Introduced in the late 1930s, these models featured built-in light meters, a first for 35mm cameras.
• Contax S: Introduced in 1949, this was the first 35mm SLR camera to use a pentaprism viewfinder.
• Contax RTS: A professional-grade SLR camera introduced in the 1970s. Known for its robust construction and advanced features.

Legacy

Today, Contax cameras are highly sought after by collectors and photographers alike. The brand is known for its high-quality construction, advanced features, and the exceptional quality of its lenses. While the brand is no longer in production, its legacy continues to influence the design and development of modern photographic equipment.