CONTAX 139 QUARTZ

Name: Contax 139 Quartz
Brand: Contax

The Contax 139 Quartz is a compact, electronically controlled 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera produced by Yashica for the Contax brand between 1979 and 1985. Designed as a technologically advanced yet accessible option in the Contax lineup, it was notable for its use of quartz-locked shutter timing, delivering exceptional exposure accuracy and reliability in a compact body.

Overview

Introduced in 1979, the Contax 139 Quartz emerged during a period of rapid technological transition in the SLR market, when electronic automation and precision timing were becoming key differentiators among mid-to-high-end 35mm cameras. Positioned as a compact and technologically refined alternative to the larger Contax RTS series, the 139 Quartz targeted advanced amateur photographers and professionals seeking a lightweight, accurate, and reliable system camera without the bulk of its contemporaries. Built by Yashica under the Contax brand, it utilized the robust Contax/Yashica (C/Y) lens mount, ensuring full compatibility with a wide range of high-quality Zeiss-designed lenses.

The 139 Quartz distinguished itself with its quartz-regulated electronic shutter, a feature uncommon at the time outside of high-end models. This innovation ensured shutter speeds were maintained with extreme precision, minimizing timing drift even as battery voltage fluctuated—a common issue in electronic cameras of the era. The camera featured aperture-priority autoexposure and center-weighted metering, with a bright, fixed pentaprism viewfinder offering 95% coverage and a split-image rangefinder focus aid. Despite its compact size, the 139 Quartz retained professional-grade build quality, including a die-cast metal chassis and precision-machined components.

Within the Contax lineup, the 139 Quartz filled a niche between the flagship RTS (Real Time System) and more basic models, offering a balance of advanced electronics, portability, and optical excellence. It was succeeded in 1984 by the Contax 137 MD, which added manual exposure mode and multi-mode metering, signaling the brand’s continued push toward greater automation and user flexibility.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Type	35mm Single-Lens Reflex (SLR)
Film Format	35mm (135)
Years Produced	1979–1985
Lens Mount	Contax/Yashica (C/Y) bayonet mount
Shutter	Vertical-travel, electronically controlled metal focal-plane shutter; speeds from 1 sec to 1/1000 sec, plus B (Bulb)
Metering	TTL center-weighted metering with silicon photodiode (SPD) sensor
Exposure Modes	Aperture-priority autoexposure only
Viewfinder	Fixed pentaprism with 95% coverage, 0.85x magnification; split-image/microprism collar focus aid
Dimensions	139 mm (W) × 85 mm (H) × 50 mm (D); ~590 g (body only, without battery)

Key Features

Quartz-locked shutter timing: Ensures exceptional accuracy of shutter speeds across all settings, independent of battery condition.
Compact, lightweight body: Significantly smaller and lighter than the Contax RTS, ideal for travel and everyday use.
Aperture-priority autoexposure: Allows precise depth-of-field control while maintaining accurate exposure.
C/Y lens mount compatibility: Supports full range of Zeiss and Yashica lenses with automatic diaphragm and metering.
Precision viewfinder optics: Bright, clear view with accurate focus confirmation via split-image rangefinder.

Historical Context

The Contax 139 Quartz was released at a time when Japanese manufacturers were rapidly advancing electronic SLR technology, challenging traditional German engineering with innovation in automation and precision. Competitors such as the Minolta X-700, Pentax ME Super, and Canon AE-1 Program dominated the mid-range market with programmable exposure modes and user-friendly interfaces. The 139 Quartz stood apart by emphasizing engineering precision over automation breadth—its quartz-regulated shutter was a technical achievement, ensuring that exposure timing remained accurate to within fractions of a second, a critical advantage for studio and low-light photographers.

Despite its technological merits, the 139 Quartz remained a niche product due to its single exposure mode and lack of manual control. It appealed primarily to photographers who valued consistency and optical quality over versatility. The camera was well-received in technical circles for its build quality and shutter accuracy but did not achieve the commercial success of more flexible models. Its production run of six years reflects moderate but steady demand, particularly in Europe and Japan, where the Contax brand retained strong prestige.

Collectibility & Value

Today, the Contax 139 Quartz is regarded as a cult classic among vintage SLR enthusiasts, particularly those interested in precision engineering and compact system cameras. While not as widely collected as the Contax RTS or later AX, it holds a loyal following due to its unique quartz timing system and understated design. Units in excellent working condition typically sell for $150–$300 USD, depending on shutter functionality, light seals, and included accessories.

When purchasing a 139 Quartz, collectors should verify the shutter operation across all speeds, as aging capacitors and electronic components can lead to erratic timing or complete failure. The original PX625 (1.35V) mercury battery is long obsolete, and modern substitutes (such as Wein Cell or voltage-regulated adapters) are required for accurate metering. Common issues include stiff shutter release buttons, degraded light seals, and oxidation on battery contacts. Because the camera relies entirely on electronics for shutter control, a non-functional battery renders it unusable—unlike mechanical cameras of the era.

Similar Cameras

Minolta X-700 – Feature-rich aperture-priority SLR with manual override and TTL flash, highly popular in the 1980s.
Pentax ME Super – Compact aperture-priority and manual SLR with LED shutter speed display in viewfinder.
Canon AE-1 Program – Iconic programmable SLR with electronic shutter and extensive marketing support.
Nikon EM – Compact Nikon SLR aimed at beginners, featuring aperture-priority mode and a lightweight body.
Olympus OM-2 – Competitor in the compact SLR segment with through-the-lens (TTL) off-the-film (OTF) metering.

Repair & Maintenance

The Contax 139 Quartz operates on a single 1.35V mercury PX625 battery (or modern equivalent such as the Wein Cell MRB625 or alkaline PX625 with voltage regulation). Battery replacement is essential for proper operation, and incorrect voltage can lead to inaccurate metering or shutter timing. The camera’s fully electronic shutter means it cannot operate without power.

Common repair issues include capacitor degradation in the timing circuit, which can cause the shutter to fire incorrectly or not at all. The shutter mechanism itself is robust but may require cleaning and lubrication after decades of inactivity. The metering system relies on a silicon photodiode, which generally remains functional but may require recalibration if the needle display is sluggish or inaccurate.

Due to its reliance on proprietary electronics and limited service documentation, repair of the 139 Quartz should be entrusted to technicians experienced with Contax/Yashica electronics. While parts are not readily available, many internal components are shared with other Yashica-built Contax models, facilitating some degree of cross-compatibility. Regular maintenance, including light seal replacement and periodic battery checks, is recommended to preserve long-term functionality.