CONTAX 137 MD

Name: Contax 137 MD
Brand: Contax

The Contax 137 MD is a 35mm film single-lens reflex (SLR) camera produced by Contax, featuring a built-in motor drive for automatic film advance and rewind. Introduced in 1980, it represents a convergence of professional-grade build quality and emerging automation technologies, targeting advanced amateur and semi-professional photographers seeking reliable performance with minimal manual intervention.

Overview

The Contax 137 MD was developed during a pivotal era in SLR evolution, when Japanese manufacturers were rapidly advancing electronic automation while German-engineered precision remained highly sought after. Manufactured by Yashica under the Contax brand—part of the Zeiss licensing agreement—the 137 MD was positioned as a technologically enhanced successor to earlier manual-wind Contax SLRs like the RTS series. It combined the robust mechanical foundation of the Contax RTS II with an integrated motor drive system, making it one of the first high-end SLRs to offer fully automatic film transport without requiring an external add-on.

Targeted primarily at photojournalists, travel photographers, and enthusiasts who valued speed and consistency, the 137 MD eliminated the need for manual film winding, enabling continuous shooting at approximately 2.5 frames per second. This feature significantly improved usability in fast-paced environments, such as events or sports, where missing a moment due to slow winding could be critical. Despite its automation, the camera retained the hallmark characteristics of the Contax line: precision engineering, compatibility with Carl Zeiss T* lenses, and a durable brass-and-aluminum chassis with weather sealing.

The 137 MD fits within the second generation of electronic Contax SLRs, bridging the gap between the original RTS (1975) and later models like the 167 MT and AX. While not as programmable as its successors, it offered aperture-priority autoexposure and center-weighted metering, providing a balance between automation and creative control. Its release underscored Contax’s strategy to compete with Nikon’s FE2 and Canon’s A-series while maintaining a distinct identity rooted in optical excellence and German-Japanese collaboration.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Type	35mm SLR with integrated motor drive
Film Format	35mm (135 cartridge)
Years Produced	1980–1984
Lens Mount	Contax/Yashica (C/Y) bayonet mount
Shutter	Vertical-travel, metal-bladed focal-plane shutter; speeds from 1 sec to 1/1000 sec, plus B (Bulb) and X-sync at 1/60 sec
Metering	TTL center-weighted full-aperture metering using silicon photodiode
Exposure Modes	Aperture-priority autoexposure and manual mode
Viewfinder	Fixed pentaprism with interchangeable focusing screens; 0.85x magnification (50mm lens at infinity); covers approx. 97% of frame
Dimensions	145 × 94 × 51 mm (5.7 × 3.7 × 2.0 in); weight: approx. 650 g (body only, without battery)

Key Features

Integrated Motor Drive: Built-in film advance and rewind system allows automatic loading, advancing, and rewinding of film, reducing user effort and increasing shooting speed.
Aperture-Priority Automation: Enables photographers to set desired aperture while the camera automatically selects the correct shutter speed for proper exposure.
C/Y Lens Mount Compatibility: Supports the full range of Carl Zeiss T* lenses and third-party optics designed for the Contax/Yashica mount, known for exceptional optical performance.
Interchangeable Focusing Screens: Allows customization for different shooting needs (e.g., split-image rangefinder, microprism, grid).
Robust Build Quality: Die-cast aluminum chassis with brass components and weather-resistant seals for durability in demanding conditions.

Historical Context

Launched in 1980, the Contax 137 MD emerged during a period of rapid technological transition in the SLR market. Japanese brands like Nikon, Canon, and Minolta were pushing electronic integration, while traditional European brands struggled to keep pace. The 137 MD was Contax’s response to this shift—offering automation without sacrificing the manual control and lens quality that defined its reputation. It was developed alongside the non-motorized RTS II and shared much of its internal design, but the addition of the motor drive marked a significant step toward modernization.

Competitors included the Nikon FE2 (1983), which offered similar build quality and aperture-priority metering but required a separate motor drive (MD-12), and the Canon AE-1 Program (1981), which featured more automation but less rugged construction. The 137 MD stood out for integrating the motor directly into the body, a feature not widely adopted by other high-end SLRs until later models like the Nikon F3HP with MD-4. Market reception was positive among professionals who appreciated its reliability and seamless operation, though its high price limited broader adoption.

Collectibility & Value

Today, the Contax 137 MD is a sought-after model among film photography enthusiasts and collectors of late 20th-century SLRs. Its combination of German optical heritage, Japanese engineering, and early automation makes it a compelling piece of photographic history. Units in excellent working condition typically sell for $300–$500 USD, with rare configurations or factory-sealed examples commanding higher prices.

When purchasing a 137 MD, buyers should verify the functionality of the motor drive, shutter operation, and light meter. Common issues include worn drive gears, degraded rubber seals, and corrosion in the battery compartment (originally powered by two 1.55V SR44 silver oxide batteries, or equivalents like LR44). Because the motor system is integrated, repairs can be complex and require specialized technicians familiar with Contax electronics. Additionally, original batteries are prone to leakage, so checking for corrosion is essential. Overall, well-maintained examples are reliable, but long-term storage without use may necessitate cleaning and lubrication.

Similar Cameras

Nikon FE2 with MD-12 Motor Drive
Canon A-1 with Motor Drive A
Pentax ME-F with Motor Winder D
Minolta X-700 with Motor Drive 1
Olympus OM-2N MD

Repair & Maintenance

The Contax 137 MD uses two 1.55V SR44 (or LR44) batteries stacked in series to power the light meter, shutter control, and motor drive system. These are housed in a compartment on the base plate and should be replaced carefully to avoid leakage. Common mechanical issues include jammed film advance mechanisms due to worn gears or dried lubricants, particularly if the camera has been stored for years without use. The motor drive system, while robust, can suffer from belt degradation or gear slippage over time. Shutter accuracy should be tested with a timer or oscilloscope, as aging capacitors may affect timing at slower speeds. Due to the complexity of the integrated motor and electronic circuits, repairs should be performed by technicians experienced with Contax/Yashica systems. Routine maintenance includes cleaning mirror and prism assemblies, checking light seals, and ensuring smooth film transport.