Contax TVS III (1999, disputed: some sources cite 1991)

A 35mm compact point-and-shoot camera with a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* zoom lens and built-in data back.

Overview

The Contax TVS III is a 35mm compact point-and-shoot camera introduced in 1999 (disputed: some sources cite 1991) as the third generation of the TVS series. Kyocera Corporation made it. It has a fixed Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 30-60mm f/3.7-6.7 zoom lens and a built-in data back that imprints the time and date on the film. The lens unit sits at the center. The viewfinder, flash, battery compartment, and film transport mechanism are arranged around it.

Specifications

Film Format	135 (35mm film)
Lens	Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 30–60mm f/3.7–6.7
Features	Built-in Data Back
Dimensions	123 x 65 x 41mm
Weight	324g

Design

The lens unit sits at the center. The viewfinder unit, flash, battery compartment, and film transport mechanism surround it.

Context

The Contax TVS III was introduced in 1999 (disputed: some sources cite 1991) as the third generation of the TVS 35mm compact zoom camera line.

Market

Current listings show sale prices around $686.37 or Dhs. 5,000.00. Reported problems include a non-functional flash button, a telephoto focus ring that jams, stiffness when adjusting the zoom, and autofocus trouble.