ZEISS IKON CONTAFLEX II

Name: Zeiss Ikon Contaflex II
Brand: Zeiss Ikon

The Zeiss Ikon Contaflex II is a 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera introduced in 1954 as an evolution of the original Contaflex I, distinguished primarily by the addition of a built-in, coupled selenium light meter. This upgrade marked a significant step forward in usability and exposure accuracy for amateur and professional photographers alike, positioning the Contaflex II as one of the earliest metered SLRs in the German precision camera market.

Overview

The Contaflex II was produced by Zeiss Ikon in Stuttgart, West Germany, during a period of rapid innovation in 35mm photography. Released between 1954 and 1958, it represented the second generation of the Contaflex series, which began with the non-metered Contaflex I in 1953. The Contaflex line was notable for its compact, rigid body design and fixed lens configuration, departing from the interchangeable-lens norm of many contemporary SLRs. The Contaflex II targeted serious amateur photographers and professionals seeking reliable, high-quality optics in a relatively compact SLR format.

A defining feature of the Contaflex II was its integrated selenium-cell exposure meter, which was coupled to the aperture mechanism—making it one of the first SLRs to offer through-the-lens (TTL) metering via a selenium cell mounted around the lens barrel. This metering system eliminated the need for handheld meters and improved exposure precision under variable lighting conditions. The camera retained the unique leaf shutter design within the lens, enabling flash synchronization at all shutter speeds—a major advantage over focal-plane-shutter SLRs of the era.

The Contaflex II was part of Zeiss Ikon’s broader strategy to consolidate post-war German optical excellence into accessible, precision-engineered cameras. It shared design lineage with other Zeiss Ikon models like the Contax rangefinders but carved a niche as a high-end, fixed-lens SLR. Its construction featured a die-cast aluminum body with leatherette covering, a folding waist-level finder, and a rigid, non-interchangeable lens mount system that prioritized optical alignment and mechanical stability over modularity.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Type	Single-Lens Reflex (SLR)
Film Format	35mm (135 cartridge)
Image Size	24 x 36mm
Years Produced	1954–1958
Lens Mount	Fixed Zeiss-Opton Tessar 45mm f/2.8 (no interchangeable lens system)
Lens Construction	4 elements in 3 groups
Aperture Range	f/2.8 to f/22
Shutter	Compur-Rapid leaf shutter
Shutter Speeds	B, 1 – 1/500 second (preset via dial around film advance lever)
Metering	Coupled selenium-cell meter (TTL, center-weighted)
Exposure Modes	Manual only; meter aids aperture/shutter selection
Viewfinder	Waist-level finder with pop-up magnifier; no eye-level prism available for this model
Focusing	Manual via helical focus ring on lens; ground-glass screen
Flash Sync	PC terminal; X-sync at all speeds due to leaf shutter
Film Advance	Single-stroke film advance lever (90° rotation)
Frame Counter	Automatic reset; counts up from 1
Battery	None (selenium cell requires no battery)
Dimensions	Approx. 140 x 95 x 75 mm (W x H x D)
Weight	Approx. 850 g (with film, no case)

Key Features

Coupled Selenium Light Meter: One of the first SLRs with a built-in, TTL-coupled selenium meter, eliminating external metering needs.
Leaf Shutter Design: Compur-Rapid shutter located in the lens allows flash sync at all speeds (up to 1/500 sec).
Fixed High-Quality Tessar Lens: 45mm f/2.8 Zeiss-Opton Tessar provides sharp, contrast-rich images with minimal aberration.
Compact and Rugged Build: Die-cast body with folding finder enables portability without sacrificing durability.
Manual Precision Controls: Direct aperture and shutter speed dials offer tactile, intuitive operation favored by experienced photographers.

Historical Context

The Contaflex II was launched at a pivotal moment in photographic history—when 35mm SLRs were transitioning from niche technical tools to mainstream creative instruments. Competing primarily with early Japanese SLRs like the Asahiflex and the Miranda T, as well as the more advanced but larger Exakta VX, the Contaflex II distinguished itself through German optical engineering and metering innovation. Its selenium meter, while prone to degradation over decades, was a cutting-edge feature in 1954, placing Zeiss Ikon at the forefront of exposure automation.

Despite its advanced features, the Contaflex II retained a conservative design philosophy. Unlike the Exakta or later Praktica models, it did not support interchangeable lenses, limiting its appeal to purists who valued optical integrity over versatility. Nevertheless, its metering system and leaf shutter offered tangible advantages in studio and flash photography, where consistent sync and accurate exposure were paramount. Market reception was positive among European professionals, though its high price and lack of prism finder limited broader adoption, especially in the U.S. market.

Collectibility & Value

Today, the Contaflex II is a sought-after collector’s item, particularly among enthusiasts of vintage German optics and early metered cameras. Units in excellent working condition with a responsive meter typically fetch between $400 and $700 on the secondary market, with fully functional selenium cells being a key determinant of value. Rarity is moderate—while not exceptionally scarce, many units suffer from degraded meter cells or stiff shutters due to age and lack of use.

When purchasing a Contaflex II, collectors should inspect the selenium cell for flaking or darkening, test shutter speeds with a timer, and verify smooth film advance and accurate frame spacing. Common issues include sticky aperture blades, worn shutter curtains, and cloudy viewfinder screens. Because the lens is fixed, optical fogging or internal scratches can significantly reduce value. Servicing is challenging due to the integrated lens-shutter-meter assembly, requiring specialized technicians familiar with vintage leaf shutters and selenium meter systems.

Similar Cameras

Konica IIA (1956) – A high-end rangefinder with metering, though not an SLR, sharing the Contaflex II’s focus on compact design and precision.
Exakta VX (1950) – German SLR with interchangeable lenses and focal-plane shutter; more versatile but bulkier and without built-in metering.
Asahiflex IIb (1957) – Early Japanese SLR with interchangeable lenses; lacked metering but offered greater system flexibility.
Praktina FX (1952) – Modular 35mm SLR system with interchangeable lenses and focal-plane shutter, favored by press photographers.
Alpa-Reflex (1949–1953) – Swiss-made precision SLR with modular design and high-grade optics, comparable in quality but significantly more expensive.

Repair & Maintenance

The Contaflex II requires no batteries, as its selenium meter operates passively. However, selenium cells degrade over time, often losing sensitivity or failing entirely; replacement is not feasible, though some technicians retrofit modern CdS cells with external circuits. The Compur-Rapid shutter is serviceable but delicate—common issues include slow speeds, second-curtain drag, and misfires at high speeds. Lubrication of the film transport and aperture linkage is essential after long dormancy. Due to the fixed lens design, disassembly for shutter or meter repair involves complex recalibration. Professional servicing is recommended, particularly for meter alignment and shutter timing. Regular use, proper storage, and gentle handling are key to preserving functionality.