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Contax 139 Quartz 35mm SLR Camera

The Contax 139 Quartz is a film camera from Contax — known for its Contax/Yashica Lens Mount and Aperture-Priority AE Mode. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Contax 139 Quartz 35mm SLR Camera

Contax 139 Quartz 35mm SLR Camera

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Camera Overview — Contax 139 Quartz

The Contax 139 Quartz is a 35mm SLR film camera from Contax, a classic piece of photographic history that continues to attract enthusiasts and collectors alike. Designed around the Contax/Yashica lens mount, the 139 Quartz opens the door to a wide ecosystem of compatible optics, giving shooters genuine flexibility in their glass selection. Focus is handled manually via a rangefinder-style manual focusing system, putting full creative control in the photographer's hands — a hallmark of the deliberate, considered shooting experience that film photography encourages.

Powering the camera's electronic systems are two LR44 1.5V batteries, a common and easy-to-source battery type that keeps the camera ready to shoot without hunting for obscure power cells. The body weighs in at 502g, striking a balance between a solid, confidence-inspiring feel in the hand and everyday portability. Whether you're shooting on the street, in the studio, or out in the field, the 139 Quartz offers a tangible, hands-on photographic experience that digital shooting simply cannot replicate.

It represents an accessible entry point into the Contax/Yashica lens mount system for those looking to explore film photography with a capable and well-regarded 35mm SLR body.

Key Features — Contax 139 Quartz

Contax/Yashica Lens Mount: Compatible with the full range of Contax and Yashica C/Y mount lenses, including high-quality Carl Zeiss glass.

Aperture-Priority AE Mode: Set your aperture and the camera automatically selects the correct shutter speed, streamlining exposure on the go.

Quartz-Controlled Shutter: Crystal-controlled timing ensures precise, consistent shutter speeds across the camera's full range.

Manual Focus SLR: Through-the-lens manual focusing gives the shooter direct creative control over focus and composition.

Self-Timer Function: Built-in self-timer allows for hands-free shooting and long-exposure work without a remote release.

LR44 Battery Powered: Runs on two widely available LR44 1.5V cells, making it easy to source replacements anywhere.

Camera Specifications — Contax 139 Quartz

Contax 139 Quartz full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesTravel
TypeFilm
AF SystemManual Focus Only
BatteryTwo LR44 1.5V batteries
Weather SealingNone
Weight502g
Lens MountContax/Yashica
Hot ShoeISO Standard (Universal)

Description — Contax 139 Quartz

The Contax 139 Quartz is a 35mm SLR film camera built around the Contax/Yashica lens mount, giving photographers access to a well-established range of compatible optics. Focusing is achieved through a rangefinder-style manual focusing system, placing the shooting experience firmly in the hands of the photographer — ideal for those who value full creative control over their imagery. The camera is powered by two LR44 1.5V batteries, a readily available battery type that ensures the electronic systems stay operational without the hassle of tracking down specialty power sources.

At 502g, the body delivers a solid, confident feel without becoming a burden during long shooting sessions. For film photographers and collectors drawn to the Contax system, the 139 Quartz represents a compelling 35mm SLR body with a mount ecosystem that supports a wide variety of lenses, making it a versatile platform for exploring analog photography.

Pros — Contax 139 Quartz

  • ✓Contax/Yashica lens mount opens access to a broad range of compatible lenses
  • ✓Manual focusing system via rangefinder-style control puts exposure and focus decisions entirely in the shooter's hands
  • ✓Powered by two LR44 1.5V batteries — a widely available and easy-to-source battery type

Cons — Contax 139 Quartz

  • ✗No autofocus system — manual focus only, which may challenge shooters accustomed to modern AF cameras
  • ✗Sparse specifications data makes it difficult to confirm additional features such as exposure modes or shutter capabilities
  • ✗Relies on electronic battery-dependent systems, meaning a dead battery can halt shooting entirely

Videos — Contax 139 Quartz

Contax 139Q Review | A Compact Zeiss Equipped 35mm SLR — Kyle McDougall

Resources & Downloads — Contax 139 Quartz

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Contax 139 Quartz

What lens mount does the Contax 139 Quartz use?+
The Contax 139 Quartz uses the Contax/Yashica lens mount. This gives users access to lenses designed for this mount system when shooting with the camera.
What batteries does the Contax 139 Quartz require?+
The camera runs on two LR44 1.5V batteries. These are a common alkaline button cell battery type that are widely available at most electronics and photography retailers.
Does the Contax 139 Quartz have autofocus?+
No. The Contax 139 Quartz uses a rangefinder-style manual focusing system, meaning all focusing is performed by the photographer. This is consistent with the hands-on, deliberate shooting style typical of classic 35mm SLR film cameras.
How much does the Contax 139 Quartz weigh?+
The body weighs 502g. This gives it a reassuring heft in the hand while remaining manageable for extended shooting sessions.
Is the Contax 139 Quartz weather sealed?+
Weather sealing is not noted in the available specifications for this camera. Photographers should exercise caution when using it in wet or dusty environments.

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