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. Manufactured by Kyocera Corporation, it features a fixed Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 30–60mm f/3.7–6.7 zoom lens and a built-in data back for time and date imprinting on film. The camera integrates the lens unit at its center, with the viewfinder, flash, battery compartment, and film transport mechanism 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

This camera consists of the lens unit located at the center, surrounded by the viewfinder unit, flash, battery compartment, and film transport mechanism.

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. Common issues reported include a non-functional flash button, telephoto focus ring jamming, stiffness during zoom adjustments, and autofocus problems.