Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T* Lens
The Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T* is a 120mm f/4 lens designed for Contax 645 mount cameras. Used copies start from $75.48 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T* Lens
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Lens Overview — Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T*
Key Features — Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T*
APO-Makro-Planar Optics: Apochromatic design corrects chromatic aberration across the frame, delivering sharp, color-accurate rendering critical for close-up medium format work.
1:2 Maximum Magnification: Achieves up to 1:2 (half life-size) reproduction at closest focus on the Contax 645 body, suited to detailed product, botanical, and close-up photography.
Contax 645 Mount: Designed exclusively for the Contax 645 system, ensuring full native compatibility including autofocus and electronic communication with the camera body.
Auto & Manual Focus: Supports both AF and MF operation, allowing shooters to switch between modes depending on subject and precision requirements.
f/4 Maximum Aperture: Consistent f/4 aperture provides a defined, controllable depth of field that suits the precise focusing demands of macro photography.
T* Anti-Reflection Coating: Zeiss T* multi-coating reduces flare and ghosting, maintaining contrast and color fidelity even in challenging lighting conditions.
Lens Specifications — Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T*
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Portrait, Macro, Product, Studio |
| Lens Type | Macro |
| Format | Medium Format |
| Zoom/Prime | Prime |
| Focal Length | 120mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/4 |
| Camera System | Medium Format |
| Lens Mount | Contax 645 |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Focus Type | Auto, Manual |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Filter Thread | 72mm |
Description — Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T*
The Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T* is a prime lens designed exclusively for the Contax 645 medium format system. With a fixed focal length of 120mm and a maximum aperture of f/4, it occupies the standard focal length range within the medium format lens lineup. The lens weighs 1100g, reflecting the solid construction expected of a dedicated medium format prime.
Both autofocus and manual focus modes are supported, offering operational flexibility across different shooting situations. A 72mm filter thread allows for straightforward integration with compatible filter systems. It is worth noting that image stabilization is not included, so photographers working at close distances should plan for steady support to maintain sharpness.
Built specifically for the Contax 645 mount, this lens is a natural fit for photographers already working within that ecosystem who need a dedicated macro-type prime option.
Pros — Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T*
- ✓Prime 120mm focal length offers a fixed, consistent perspective well-suited to medium format shooting
- ✓Maximum aperture of f/4 provides a defined depth of field for controlled macro and detail work
- ✓Supports both autofocus and manual focus operation for shooting flexibility
Cons — Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T*
- ✗No image stabilization, which can be a challenge at close focusing distances where camera shake is more apparent
- ✗At 1100g, the lens is quite heavy and may require additional support during extended shooting sessions
- ✗Exclusively compatible with the Contax 645 mount, limiting its use to that specific camera system
Videos — Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T*
[A Top Mint] Carl Zeiss Makro-Planar 120mm f/4 T* ZV Classic for Hasselblad 6700 — Used camera shop in Japan Japonicamera
Frequently Asked Questions — Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T*
Which camera system is this lens compatible with?+
This lens is built for the Contax 645 mount and is compatible with Contax 645 medium format cameras. It is not natively compatible with other mounts or systems.
Does this lens support autofocus?+
Yes, the lens supports both autofocus and manual focus operation. This gives photographers the option to switch between modes depending on the shooting scenario.
What filter size does this lens use?+
The lens has a 72mm filter thread, so you will need 72mm compatible filters for use with this optic.
Does this lens have image stabilization?+
No, image stabilization is not present on this lens. Photographers should be mindful of camera movement, especially when shooting at close distances where any motion is more pronounced.
How heavy is the Contax 120mm f/4 APO-Makro-Planar T*?+
The lens weighs 1100g. This is a substantial weight, and using a tripod or other support is advisable for extended sessions or precise macro work.