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Contax RTS II 35mm SLR Camera

The Contax RTS II is a film camera from Contax — known for its Contax/Yashica Lens Mount and Titanium Shutter Curtain. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Contax RTS II 35mm SLR Camera

Contax RTS II 35mm SLR Camera

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Camera Overview — Contax RTS II

The Contax RTS II is a 35mm SLR film camera produced during the 1980s, sitting firmly in the professional end of the film camera market. Built around the Contax/Yashica lens mount, it opens up compatibility with a broad ecosystem of interchangeable lenses — including brand-specific and third-party options — making it a versatile platform for film shooters. The camera uses a focal plane shutter and is designed for manual focus operation, which suits photographers who prefer deliberate, hands-on control over their exposures.

For flash work, the RTS II is equipped with both a hot shoe and a PC sync port, giving shooters flexibility whether they're working with on-camera flash or studio strobes connected via sync cable. The camera accepts standard 35mm film, keeping running costs accessible and the film choice wide open. Weighing in at approximately 750–800g, the RTS II has a solid, substantial feel in hand that is characteristic of professional-grade SLR bodies of its era.

If you're building a manual focus 35mm system or looking to shoot with Contax/Yashica mount glass, the RTS II is a compelling body worth considering.

Key Features — Contax RTS II

Contax/Yashica Lens Mount: Provides access to a wide ecosystem of interchangeable lenses, including Zeiss-branded Contax optics and compatible third-party glass.

Titanium Shutter Curtain: The focal plane shutter uses a titanium curtain, a hallmark of the RTS II that offers durability and precise exposure control.

Dual Flash Connectivity: Both a hot shoe and PC sync port allow the camera to connect with on-camera flash units or studio strobes via sync cable.

Manual Focus Operation: Designed for fully manual focus control, suited to photographers who prefer deliberate, hands-on shooting technique.

Real-Time Viewfinder: The RTS II features a bright, high-magnification viewfinder with exposure information displayed for accurate manual metering.

Solid Professional Build: The body has the substantial, well-constructed feel characteristic of professional SLRs of its era.

Camera Specifications — Contax RTS II

Contax RTS II full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesPortrait, Landscape, Street, Travel
Lens MountContax/Yashica
Hot ShoeISO Standard (Universal)

Description — Contax RTS II

The Contax RTS II is a 35mm SLR film camera manufactured during the 1980s, built around the Contax/Yashica lens mount for broad interchangeable lens compatibility. Its focal plane shutter and manual focus design place full exposure and focus control in the photographer's hands — a deliberate, tactile shooting experience that many film photographers actively seek out. Flash users will appreciate the dual connectivity options: a hot shoe for direct on-camera flash and a PC sync port for tethering to studio lighting setups.

The camera shoots standard 35mm film, keeping film choice flexible and widely accessible. At 750–800g, the RTS II has the kind of heft associated with professional-grade bodies, feeling purposeful and well-balanced rather than lightweight or plasticky. Compatible with both brand-specific and third-party lenses on the Contax/Yashica mount, it serves as a capable foundation for a manual focus 35mm shooting system.

Pros — Contax RTS II

  • ✓Contax/Yashica lens mount supports interchangeable lenses including both brand-specific and third-party options
  • ✓Dual flash connectivity via both hot shoe and PC sync port for versatile lighting setups
  • ✓Focal plane shutter design typical of professional-grade SLR bodies

Cons — Contax RTS II

  • ✗Manual focus only — no autofocus capability for fast-moving subjects
  • ✗Contax/Yashica mount is a less common system, which can limit used lens availability compared to more widespread mounts
  • ✗Weight of 750–800g may feel heavy for extended handheld shooting sessions

Videos — Contax RTS II

Contax RTS Camera Review & Sample Photos — Analog Insights

Resources & Downloads — Contax RTS II

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Contax RTS II

What lenses are compatible with the Contax RTS II?+
The RTS II uses the Contax/Yashica lens mount, which is compatible with interchangeable lenses including brand-specific and third-party options. This gives shooters a reasonable selection of glass to work with across the manual focus 35mm system.
What film does the Contax RTS II use?+
The RTS II is designed for standard 35mm film, which remains widely available today in a variety of emulsions from multiple manufacturers.
Does the Contax RTS II support external flash?+
Yes. The RTS II is equipped with both a hot shoe and a PC sync port, giving you the flexibility to use on-camera flash units or connect to studio strobes and other flash equipment via a sync cable.
Is the Contax RTS II an autofocus camera?+
No. The RTS II is a manual focus camera, meaning focus is set by hand using the lens focus ring. This is well-suited to deliberate, controlled shooting styles common with film SLRs of this era.
When was the Contax RTS II manufactured?+
The Contax RTS II was manufactured during the 1980s, specifically within the 1980–1989 production window listed in the specifications.
How heavy is the Contax RTS II?+
The RTS II weighs between 750g and 800g body-only, giving it a solid, substantial feel consistent with professional SLR cameras of its generation.

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