Contax N1 35mm SLR Camera
The Contax N1 is a film camera from Contax — known for its Contax N Lens Mount and Autofocus 35mm SLR. Used copies start from $241.06 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Contax N1 35mm SLR Camera
Used Contax N1 Listings on GearFocus
Camera Overview — Contax N1
Key Features — Contax N1
Contax N Lens Mount: Accepts the full range of Contax N-mount interchangeable lenses, a dedicated system featuring high-quality Zeiss-designed optics.
Autofocus 35mm SLR: Integrated autofocus system places the N1 in the professional tier of late-era 35mm film SLRs, capable of handling a wide range of shooting situations.
Focal Plane Shutter: Provides precise exposure control across a broad range of shutter speeds, consistent with professional-grade film camera construction.
Dual Flash Connectivity: Both a hot shoe and PC sync port allow connection to on-camera flash units as well as studio strobes via sync cable.
35mm Film Format: Shoots standard 35mm film, giving access to the widest selection of available emulsions including color negative, slide, and black-and-white stocks.
Substantial 850g Build: The solid body weight reflects a professional-leaning construction that contributes to stability and durability in regular use.
Camera Specifications — Contax N1
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Portrait, Landscape, Street, Travel |
| AF System | Other |
| Lens Mount | Contax N |
| Hot Shoe | ISO Standard (Universal) |
Description — Contax N1
The Contax N1 is a 35mm SLR film camera built around the Contax N lens mount, accepting interchangeable Contax N-mount lenses for a dedicated optical system. The camera incorporates autofocus functionality and a focal plane shutter, representing a capable combination for film photographers who want automated focusing in an analog body. Weighing 850g, the N1 has a hefty, confidence-inspiring presence.
Flash photographers will appreciate the dual connectivity options — a hot shoe and a PC sync port — allowing compatibility with both portable flash units and studio lighting setups. The 35mm film format keeps the N1 practical and versatile, as 35mm film remains widely available in a broad selection of emulsions. Manufactured during the 1990s, the Contax N1 sits within a notable era of 35mm SLR development and remains an interesting option for film shooters looking to explore the Contax N mount system.
Pros — Contax N1
- ✓Autofocus system makes it accessible for a range of shooting situations
- ✓Contax N lens mount opens compatibility with dedicated Contax N-mount interchangeable lenses
- ✓Dual flash connectivity via both hot shoe and PC sync port
Cons — Contax N1
- ✗Contax N mount is a niche ecosystem with limited lens availability compared to more common mounts
- ✗At 850g, the body weight may feel heavy for extended handheld use
- ✗No weather sealing information available in specifications
Videos — Contax N1
Contax 35mm Film Cameras. Contax N1, Contax RX & Contax RTSII — Joe DAgostino Photo








