SimonPJ
Well-known
As a companion to the thread on oldest Leicas, it would be interesting to see the oldest Contaxes - how they're surviving, which models and which variants.
SimonPJ
Well-known
Not one of the earlier I's. A 1934 Contax I, Version 7. With 1932 Tessar and 1934 Sonnar. All in excellent functional condition.
SimonPJ
Well-known
A 1934 Super Nettel. Slow speeds somewhat reluctant, but otherwise functioning well. Supreme Art Deco camera design gorgeousness.
Pherdinand
the snow must go on
OK, you win 
)
)
Erik van Straten
Veteran
I have a working Contax I 4th version, V37084 (spring 1933). I am very proud on this one.
Erik.
Erik.
Vince Lupo
Whatever
Contax 1a, 1 dimple, no foot. I recall it was an 'AU' serial number.
contax2 by Vince Lupo, on Flickr
contax3 by Vince Lupo, on Flickr
contax3a by Vince Lupo, on Flickr
contax2 by Vince Lupo, on Flickr
contax3 by Vince Lupo, on Flickr
contax3a by Vince Lupo, on Flickr
Mr_Flibble
In Tabulas Argenteas Refero
I'll have to look up my Version 4's serial number. I think it started with a U.
SimonPJ
Well-known
So 1932, Version 2? Beautiful camera. Quite striking how different the early and late versions of the I are. Is it still functioning well?
Vince Lupo
Whatever
Long gone - it did function very well and I no issues with it. I don't recall whether the 2 dimple came before the 1 dimple or vice-versa. I actually don't know the difference between the version 1 and the version 2.
If you look closely at the front of the camera, you'll see that a flash sync was added to it at some point in its life.
SimonPJ
Well-known
The cases for the Contax I and Super Nettel share the same strong art deco aesthetic.
CharlesDAMorgan
Veteran
Sorry, could someone ban me from this thread. Drooling at my age is not appropriate and I've got enough cameras as it is.
Dralowid
Michael
PRJ
Another Day in Paradise
Yup. I'll put a ditto on that.
I think it would be a treat to own one that worked.
markjwyatt
Well-known
Anyone own a Contaflex TLR? Those are very cool looking.
Mr_Flibble
In Tabulas Argenteas Refero
Still have a version 4, a version 5 and a version 7...and a super Nettel
All working in various stages of usability
Serial number on my v4 is U.20136 that would make it 1932/1933
All working in various stages of usability
Serial number on my v4 is U.20136 that would make it 1932/1933
Dralowid
Michael
Bottom left is a dimple camera with no slow speeds. By 'no slow speeds' I mean that it never had them, not that they don't work! It is early.
For those that are seduced by the Contax I can I suggest you read the Contax I ribbon thread...
Mr_Flibble
In Tabulas Argenteas Refero
As slow speeds were added in 1933 according to Kuc, I guess mine is from 1933.
Serial number batches seem quite erratic and confusing.
Erik van Straten
Veteran
My camera, a model 4, is possibly rebuilt by Zeiss in the early fifties, that is why it works so good I guess. It even has flash synch, the plug is beautifully hidden behind the right strap lug. Maybe parts of the Contax II are used. I do not have the guts to open the camera, only to put a film in it from time to time.
I have three other Contax I cameras, they are all repaired by myself. They only work partially. The high speeds do not work; the only usable speeds are 1/50 and 1/100.
I hardly ever use the cameras. My two black and nickel Leica III's are so much nicer ...
Erik.
I have three other Contax I cameras, they are all repaired by myself. They only work partially. The high speeds do not work; the only usable speeds are 1/50 and 1/100.
I hardly ever use the cameras. My two black and nickel Leica III's are so much nicer ...
Erik.
CharlesDAMorgan
Veteran
A beautiful photo of a beautiful camera.