Contax RX Lens Mount

[BCMielke]

I have been waiting quite awhile for a reputable dealer to get in a Contax RX and one finally did.

The camera was said to be 80-90% of mint an functioning. It arrived with a battery that was dead so I couldn't test it right away. No big deal, though I am left to wonder how the tested it and why they would have left a dead battery in it.

I think the lens mount is busted though. When I mounted any of my 3 C/Y lenses on it there is a noticeable circular wobble and the mount doesn't latch. Using the Lens release isn't needed as the lens will just rotate off with just a mild bit of force.

I assume that this is not in the original design of the camera, but I wanted to ask before I sent it back.

Thanks,

 

[nasmformyzombie]

The Contax SLR bodies from the 1990's are exceptionally well built, especially the RTSIII, ST and to a slightly lesser extent, the RX. You almost certainly have a camera with a damaged lens mount.

 

[BCMielke]

That’s what I figured. Thanks for the confirmation.

Looks like I don’t quite yet own a Contax RX

 

[Larry Cloetta]

Keep looking, great camera. I've never bothered to wait for a reputable dealer to get one and all of the 3 I have purchased have been fine; maybe just go with a disreputable dealer next time🙂

 

[Larry Cloetta]

A broken lens mount on one of these would be exceedingly rare, and due to abuse, but I should mention that, if you are looking for an RX, there is a known common problem you should be aware of, though there is an easy, cheap fix. (More than just common, as it will afflict all of them eventually.)
The glue which holds the mirror in place fails, and the mirror migrates down its tracks a bit; not enough that you would notice it if you looked at it, but enough that it chops off a horizontal bit of every negative frame. Just remove the mirror and recement it with Pliobond and you will not have the issue recur. Great body other than that.