nigeldun
Newbie
I have a new-to-me Contax IIa, Question is: how do I remove the sleeve/insert with numbers on it, that mounts the normal 50mm lenses, so that I can fit wide-angle and telephoto lenses? Also applies to my Kiev, I find...
darkkavenger
Massimiliano Mortillaro
Hello, the thing with numbers outside is made to accomodate non-50mm lenses, it is the external bayonet mount. You will see a red dot below the viewfinder window. Your lens with an external bayonet mount also has a red dot. align those when mounting the lens, then once it fits comfortably, turn the lens counter-clockwise until it clicks. It should then be mounted properly.
jwnash1
Well-known
I would add one thing to what Darkavenger said and that is to set your non 50mm lens to infinity first. I find it will mount easier that way.
Regards,
John
Regards,
John
darkkavenger
Massimiliano Mortillaro
Of course, sorry for forgetting this. Make sure the inner focusing ring is retracted with the infinity mark at twelve o'clock. The little round level used to lock 50mm lenses should be aligned with the 'a' of the 'Contax' inscription.
batterytypehah!
Lord of the Dings
Sorry guys, I find it a little confusing the way you describe it.
@ nigeldun: The inner ring that accepts the 50mm lenses remains in the camera at all times. Wide and tele lenses have an outer collar with a thumb lock. This collar grabs the outer bayonet but at the same time the inner bayonet (which is the focusing mechanism) also engages inside the lens.
To mount a wide or tele lens, set both body and lens at infinity, line up the red dots and turn the lens counter-clockwise until the thumb lock engages.
By the way, the wide collar will also release the infinity lock; it's supposed to do that.
@ nigeldun: The inner ring that accepts the 50mm lenses remains in the camera at all times. Wide and tele lenses have an outer collar with a thumb lock. This collar grabs the outer bayonet but at the same time the inner bayonet (which is the focusing mechanism) also engages inside the lens.
To mount a wide or tele lens, set both body and lens at infinity, line up the red dots and turn the lens counter-clockwise until the thumb lock engages.
By the way, the wide collar will also release the infinity lock; it's supposed to do that.
darkkavenger
Massimiliano Mortillaro
You've put it pretty clear and straightforward, I'm still in office so got a bit mixed up in my description 
nigeldun
Newbie
Thanks
Thanks
You guys are awesome!
Thanks
You guys are awesome!
darkkavenger
Massimiliano Mortillaro
Hopefully batterytypehah! put it right for you! Now welcome to RFF and enjoy your Contax and Kiev! Show up some photos sometime