kdellaquila
Member
I'm looking to get one of these for a Contax IIIa and wanted to know if it is coupled to the rangefinder or scale focus only. Thanks.
Vickko
Veteran
My memory says they are coupled to the Contax rangefinder.
dexdog
Veteran
definately rangefinder coupled
RObert Budding
D'oh!
At f/5.6 the hyperfocal distance is just under 9'. Not much need to focus.
Tom A
RFF Sponsor
I have it and, yes, as stated it is coupled to the rangefinder. Build quality is outstanding - all heavy brass. Ergonomics are a bit of a disaster - the distance scale and aperture are engraved in miniscule numbers, black on a chrome background (unless you can find one of the all black ones - rare). Optical performance is very good - even by todays standards - virtually distorsion free - only surpassed by the new Zeiss ZM 21f4.5.
I dont know if they ever made a hood for the Rf version of this lens - never seen one. It can flare in strong light, but in general use - not a problem. I use it with Nikon Rf's - the slight difference in focus between the Contax and Nikon is easily covered by the f4.5 aperture.
Edge fall off is modest for a 50-60 year old lens. Check the lens for optical "clean" glass and focus - the helicoids can "gum up" and get stiff as can the aperture ring. The original Zeiss finder is less than stellar - a bit dim and "clunky" - get one of the VC 21mm finders instead.
Great 21 all in all.
I dont know if they ever made a hood for the Rf version of this lens - never seen one. It can flare in strong light, but in general use - not a problem. I use it with Nikon Rf's - the slight difference in focus between the Contax and Nikon is easily covered by the f4.5 aperture.
Edge fall off is modest for a 50-60 year old lens. Check the lens for optical "clean" glass and focus - the helicoids can "gum up" and get stiff as can the aperture ring. The original Zeiss finder is less than stellar - a bit dim and "clunky" - get one of the VC 21mm finders instead.
Great 21 all in all.
Tom A
RFF Sponsor
Zeiss Biogon 21mm f4.5 on a Nikon S2. Kodak EK 5231 (+X movie stock). D96 developer.