ZEISS IKON CONTAREX II

Name: Zeiss Ikon Contarex II
Brand: Zeiss Ikon

The Zeiss Ikon Contarex II is an advanced 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera introduced in 1966 as an upgraded version of the original Contarex line. Designed for professional photographers and serious enthusiasts, it features a built-in through-the-lens (TTL) center-weighted exposure meter and refined mechanical operation, marking a significant step forward in Zeiss Ikon’s pursuit of precision engineering in SLR design.

Overview

The Contarex II was developed during a period of intense innovation in the SLR market, when German and Japanese manufacturers were competing to deliver high-precision, professional-grade cameras with integrated metering systems. As the second major iteration in the Contarex series—following the original Contarex (1959) and the Contarex Special (1962)—the Contarex II represented Zeiss Ikon’s most mature attempt to combine optical excellence, mechanical robustness, and electronic automation in a single platform. It was aimed squarely at professional photojournalists, studio photographers, and scientific users who demanded reliability, accurate exposure control, and compatibility with Zeiss’s renowned high-performance lenses.

Unlike its predecessors, which relied on external or stop-down metering, the Contarex II introduced full-aperture TTL metering using a cadmium sulfide (CdS) cell positioned behind a semi-transparent focusing screen. This allowed for continuous light measurement during composition, greatly improving usability and exposure accuracy. The camera retained the distinctive “cyclops” eye-shaped pentaprism housing that gave the Contarex line its nickname, but internally it featured numerous refinements, including a redesigned shutter mechanism, improved film advance, and a more intuitive metering interface. Despite its advanced features, the Contarex II remained a fully mechanical camera with electronic metering assistance, ensuring functionality even without batteries.

The Contarex II occupied the top tier of Zeiss Ikon’s 35mm SLR lineup, positioned above the earlier models and intended to compete directly with the likes of the Nikon F and Canon F-1. However, due to its complex design, high production costs, and the eventual decline of Zeiss Ikon as a camera manufacturer, the Contarex II had a short production run and remains one of the rarest and most collectible German SLRs.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Type	35mm Single-Lens Reflex (SLR)
Film Format	35mm (135 film), 24x36mm frame size
Years Produced	1966–1968
Lens Mount	Zeiss Ikon Contarex Bayonet (non-interchangeable with other mounts)
Shutter	Horizontal-travel, cloth focal-plane shutter; speeds from 1 sec to 1/1000 sec, plus B
Metering	Through-the-lens (TTL), full-aperture, center-weighted CdS meter
Exposure Modes	Manual exposure with stop-down metering; no automatic exposure
Viewfinder	Fixed pentaprism with integrated CdS meter display (needle visible in viewfinder), interchangeable focusing screens
Dimensions	Approx. 150 mm (W) × 95 mm (H) × 55 mm (D); weight approx. 850 g (body only, no lens or battery)

Key Features

Full-aperture TTL metering: Utilizes a CdS cell behind a semi-transparent microprism focusing screen for accurate exposure readings without stopping down the lens.
Interchangeable focusing screens: Allows customization for different shooting applications (e.g., split-image, matte, grid).
Precision mechanical shutter: Horizontally traveling cloth shutter with speeds from 1 sec to 1/1000 sec, mechanically timed and reliable.
Robust all-metal construction: Die-cast zinc alloy body with extensive use of brass and steel components for durability.
Zeiss lens compatibility: Designed for use with high-performance Zeiss lenses such as the Planar 50mm f/2, Distagon 35mm f/2.8, and Sonnar 135mm f/2.8, all featuring the Contarex bayonet mount.

Historical Context

The Contarex II was launched in 1966 at a time when the SLR market was rapidly evolving. Japanese manufacturers like Nikon and Canon were gaining global dominance with modular, reliable systems such as the Nikon F (1959) and Canon FX (1964), which offered extensive lens lineups and accessory support. In response, Zeiss Ikon sought to reaffirm German engineering superiority with a technically advanced, precision-built alternative. The Contarex II was the culmination of this effort, integrating TTL metering into a mechanically sophisticated body while maintaining compatibility with the existing Contarex lens ecosystem.

Despite its technical merits, the Contarex II faced significant challenges. Its complex metering system was prone to aging-related failures, and the proprietary bayonet mount limited third-party support. Additionally, Zeiss Ikon was undergoing corporate restructuring during this period, and the high cost of manufacturing limited production volume. By 1968, just two years after its introduction, production ceased as Zeiss Ikon exited the camera manufacturing business. The Contarex II thus became a swan song for one of Germany’s most prestigious camera brands.

Collectibility & Value

Today, the Contarex II is highly sought after by collectors of classic German cameras due to its rarity, historical significance, and association with Zeiss optical excellence. Fewer than 10,000 units are estimated to have been produced, making it significantly rarer than its Japanese contemporaries. In excellent working condition with a matching lens (typically the Planar 50mm f/2), a Contarex II can command prices between $1,500 and $3,000 USD, depending on provenance and cosmetic state.

When purchasing a Contarex II, collectors should pay close attention to the functionality of the meter, as the CdS cell often degrades over time, leading to inaccurate readings or complete failure. The shutter mechanism is generally robust but may require servicing if the camera has been stored improperly. Lubricant hardening and mirror mechanism wear are also common issues after decades of inactivity. Original boxes, manuals, and accessories significantly enhance value. Due to its mechanical complexity and lack of service support, the Contarex II is best suited for display or occasional use by experienced collectors rather than daily shooting.

Similar Cameras

Nikon F (1959–1973) – The benchmark professional SLR of the era, modular design, extensive lens support.
Canon FX (1964) – Canon’s first 35mm SLR with TTL metering, precursor to the F-1.
Pentax Spotmatic (1964) – Popular Japanese SLR with full-aperture TTL metering and M42 screw mount.
Topcon RE Super (1963) – Advanced Japanese SLR with TTL metering and high-quality lenses.
Praktica FX3 (1968) – East German SLR with open-aperture metering and M42 mount.

Repair & Maintenance

The Contarex II uses a single PX625 (1.35V) mercury battery or modern equivalent (such as WeinCell or zinc-air substitutes) to power the CdS meter; the camera’s mechanical functions operate independently of battery power. Common repair issues include degraded CdS cells, sticky shutter curtains due to dried lubricants, and worn mirror return springs. The TTL meter circuitry is sensitive and may require recalibration by a specialist familiar with vintage German electronics. Full CLA (clean, lubricate, adjust) services are recommended for non-working examples, though qualified technicians are rare. Due to the camera’s complexity and proprietary design, repair costs can be high, and parts availability is limited. Regular use and proper storage in a dry environment are essential for long-term preservation.