Contax lla & llla - "never use a wrist-strap"

[Jimbo035]

Never use a wrist-strap attached to the camera body strap lugs with the IIa and IIIa model cameras. The strap lugs have a weak point inside the camera. It is possible with a moderate amount of use for flexing of the lug to cause its stem to break off inside the camera causing the lug to pull out of the camera.

http://www.zeisscamera.com/articles_warnings.shtm


Soon after buying my (1956) llla a short while ago, I stopped using its ever-ready case in favour of a wrist strap and small shoulder bag as I always have done in the past, which of course is more convenient and practical as the Contax case’s flap is not detachable.
Some days later whilst browsing among various Zeiss-Contax related websites I saw this warning, checked my camera and found that the lug nearest the winding knob is slightly loose; i.e. there is a little but enough lateral “play” to be concerned about. I promptly removed the strap and until I have the lug fixed, the case is back in full-time use.
(We have a leather-worker near by, so I’ll see if the stud which holds the flap can be replaced by a press-stud)

 

[Jason Sprenger]

I'd say it's a concern for most all cameras of this sort, not just Contax.

Consequently, I prefer wrist straps that connect to the tripod socket.

 

[Sid836]

Besides, hanging such a heavy object from your wrist might impose serious problems (to your wrist).

 

[aoresteen]

When using a wrest strap attach it to the TRIPOD socket!

 

[Sarcophilus Harrisii]

Are the Contax II & III models similarly afflicted?

 

[ZivcoPhoto]

Wow....good to know.

 

[Jimbo035]

Contax ll and lll apparently not affected, (reading through the whole of this passage :
http://www.zeisscamera.com/articles_warnings.shtm

specifically : " With regard to the earlier pre war II and III model cameras the side lugs are attached to the camera frame in a much different and much stronger manner than the post war IIa and IIIa model cameras. It is safe to use a good high quality wrist strap with the II and III model cameras."

 

[Sarcophilus Harrisii]

Contax ll and lll apparently not affected, (reading through the whole of this passage :
http://www.zeisscamera.com/articles_warnings.shtm

specifically : " With regard to the earlier pre war II and III model cameras the side lugs are attached to the camera frame in a much different and much stronger manner than the post war IIa and IIIa model cameras. It is safe to use a good high quality wrist strap with the II and III model cameras."

Thank you!

 

[Vics]

My IIIa had this happen. the lug just came out, intact. I got it repaired for $35. It's held in with a set screw. The screw had not been properly installed. When I used one end of the strap to pull the camera out of the bag, all I got was the lug.