Contax IIIa

[john341]

I have just unpacked my first Contax IIIa and it comes with a Sonnar f1.5 Opton lens. Does anyone have any experience with this lens? I have take a few shots to see how it goes. Mechanically,the shutter sounds sweeter than that of the Kiev III but I still think the latter is a great camera.

 

[ZeissFan]

Considered by some (including me) to be one of the best classic lenses on the market.

 

[harry01562]

As previously mentioned, one of the best classic lenses ever made. I'd rate it even higher, but there are some exquisite designs being made today. They do lack the inherent character of the older ones, because of the unique flaws of those older lenses. I use the word flaws, but it does have a different shade of meaning when used in this context. The flaws can produce fine art, in the right hands.

Harry

 

[David Murphy]

It's a solid lens, even by modern standards. The 35mm and 21mm Biogons are even more impressive.

 

[john341]

Thanks for the comments. I am still surprised after many ears how well some older lenses perform, the Summitar, Jupiter 12 and older Jupiter 8(M) on early model Kievs. One thing I have noticed is that the focus wheel on the Contax runs in the opposite direction from the Kiev..take a bit of getting used to.

 

[Carlsen Highway]

I wish I had one....

 

[Paul C. Perkins MD]

A superb optic.

 

[john341]

I will find out tonight when I develop a roll of "Lucky" 100asa film rated at 180.

 

[raid]

Why would you underexpose the negatives? Did you mean to write "ASA80" or "ASA180"?

 

[john341]

180. I posted a note earlier .. back in the 60's most of us doubled the speed and developed the film normally in either Microdol-X or Promicrol..worked for us then.

 

[Doug]

I too have a Contax IIIa with a 1.5/50 Sonnar. After CLA they perform beautifully. I expect you like the kit.

Here's one of Jessica at the photo lab tossing disposable cameras; Sonnar lens pretty close to wide open.

 

[john341]

Great shot! I have developed my first film, a chinese Lucky brand 100asa. The negs are lovely, sharp good contrast (the film isn't bad either) Thanks everyone for comments etc, yes I am very happy with my IIIa (still like the Kiev too)

 

[john341]

I meant to add re developing-I rated the film at 180asa and developed normally. Results were good

 

[john341]

Why would you underexpose the negatives? Did you mean to write "ASA80" or "ASA180"?

I didn't reply to your question. I remember reading many years ago in "Darkroom Technique" that contrast would be improved and graininess reduced by underexposing the images and processing as normal. It seemed to work for us but it introduces many variables in the process..ambient temperature, agitation usw

 

[hugivza]

This is a classic lens, designed before modern computers but excellent nevertheless. Enjoy!

 

[gohaj]

I have just unpacked my first Contax IIIa and it comes with a Sonnar f1.5 Opton lens. Does anyone have any experience with this lens? I have take a few shots to see how it goes. Mechanically,the shutter sounds sweeter than that of the Kiev III but I still think the latter is a great camera.

i like sonnar 50/1.5 lens. see one of my photo here.

 

[gohaj]

Thanks for the comments. I am still surprised after many ears how well some older lenses perform, the Summitar, Jupiter 12 and older Jupiter 8(M) on early model Kievs. One thing I have noticed is that the focus wheel on the Contax runs in the opposite direction from the Kiev..take a bit of getting used to.

jupiter 8 is quite good as well. see one of my photo here.

 

[mhv]

The 50mm Sonnar 1.5 is a fantastic lens for color and black and white. For the price, you get a lens that is sharp when stopped down and has a beautiful bokeh wide open. Use it with slide film on a cloudy day and the slides have that just perfect look, fine details, not too much contrast and rich colours.

 

[john341]

jupiter 8 is quite good as well. see one of my photo here.

No argument from me, having used a J8 for years on a Zorki then later on a Leica. The earlier J8 on my 1955 Kiev delivers great negatives-the comrades were doing something right with them.