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Zeiss Ikon Contarex Super 35mm Film Camera

The Zeiss Ikon Super is a film camera from Zeiss Ikon — known for its Contarex Bayonet Mount and West German Precision Build. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Zeiss Ikon Contarex Super 35mm Film Camera

Zeiss Ikon Contarex Super 35mm Film Camera

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Camera Overview — Zeiss Ikon Super

The Zeiss Ikon Contarex Super is a 35mm SLR film camera manufactured during the 1960s, representing a significant chapter in West German precision camera engineering. Built around the Contarex Bayonet lens mount, it accepts interchangeable brand-specific lenses, giving photographers of the era access to a carefully curated optical system. The camera uses a focal plane shutter and relies entirely on manual focus operation, placing full creative control in the photographer's hands — a characteristic that continues to appeal to film shooters today.

At a listed weight of 1,200–1,300 grams, the Contarex Super is a substantial, solidly built body that communicates its mechanical quality through heft alone. Flash connectivity is covered by both a cold shoe and a PC sync port, offering compatibility with a range of flash units from the period and beyond. Whether you're a collector drawn to its storied manufacturing heritage or a film photographer seeking a mechanical SLR with a distinctive lens ecosystem, the Contarex Super remains a compelling and characterful choice in the vintage 35mm camera market.

Key Features — Zeiss Ikon Super

Contarex Bayonet Mount: Proprietary bayonet system gives access to Zeiss's dedicated range of high-quality interchangeable lenses built specifically for the Contarex system.

West German Precision Build: Manufactured in the 1960s to exacting West German engineering standards, the Contarex Super is regarded as one of the most mechanically refined SLRs of its era.

Focal Plane Shutter: A hallmark of serious SLR design, the focal plane shutter enables a wide range of shutter speeds and compatibility with the full lens lineup.

Full Manual Operation: Manual focus and manual exposure controls place complete creative authority with the photographer, a workflow favored by experienced film shooters.

Substantial Mechanical Body: Weighing approximately 1,200–1,300 grams, the camera's heft reflects the density and durability of its all-mechanical construction.

Dual Flash Connectivity: Both a cold shoe and a PC sync port allow compatibility with a broad range of period and modern flash units.

Camera Specifications — Zeiss Ikon Super

Zeiss Ikon Super full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesPortrait, Landscape, Street, Architecture
Hot ShoeCold Shoe (No Contacts)

Description — Zeiss Ikon Super

The Zeiss Ikon Contarex Super is a 35mm SLR film camera produced during the 1960–1969 manufacturing period. It is built around the Contarex Bayonet lens mount, which accepts interchangeable brand-specific lenses, making it a self-contained system camera from one of Germany's most respected camera makers of the era. Exposure and composition are handled entirely through manual focus, and the camera employs a focal plane shutter — a design well-suited to the demands of serious SLR photography.

For flash work, the Contarex Super provides both a cold shoe and a PC sync port, accommodating a range of external flash units. The body tips the scales at 1,200–1,300 grams, a weight that speaks to its dense, mechanical construction. Film photographers and collectors alike will appreciate this camera for its precision heritage and the engaging, hands-on shooting experience that only a fully manual, purpose-built 35mm SLR from this period can deliver.

Pros — Zeiss Ikon Super

  • ✓Contarex Bayonet mount supports interchangeable brand-specific lenses, offering a dedicated optical system
  • ✓Focal plane shutter design is a hallmark of serious SLR cameras from this era
  • ✓Both cold shoe and PC sync port provide versatile flash connectivity options

Cons — Zeiss Ikon Super

  • ✗Weighing 1,200–1,300g, the body is notably heavy compared to many other 35mm SLRs
  • ✗Contarex Bayonet is a brand-specific mount, meaning compatible lenses can be difficult to source and expensive
  • ✗Manual focus only — no autofocus option for those transitioning from modern systems

Videos — Zeiss Ikon Super

Review: Zeiss Icon Contarex "Bullseye" - KEH Camera — KEH Camera

Resources & Downloads — Zeiss Ikon Super

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Zeiss Ikon Super

What film does the Contarex Super use?+
The Contarex Super is designed for standard 35mm film. No other film formats are listed as compatible, so it works with the widely available 35mm cartridges still in production today.
What lenses are compatible with the Contarex Super?+
The camera uses the Contarex Bayonet lens mount and is compatible with interchangeable brand-specific lenses. Because this is a proprietary mount, lens options are limited to those designed specifically for the Contarex system.
Can I use a flash with the Contarex Super?+
Yes. The camera features both a cold shoe and a PC sync port for flash connectivity. Note that the cold shoe does not carry electrical contacts, so TTL or dedicated flash communication is not supported through the shoe.
When was the Contarex Super manufactured?+
The Contarex Super was manufactured between 1960 and 1969, placing it firmly in the era of mechanical precision SLR cameras. Any example you find today will be a vintage unit, so inspecting its condition carefully before purchase is recommended.
How heavy is the Contarex Super body?+
The body weighs between 1,200 and 1,300 grams, making it a noticeably substantial camera. Prospective buyers who prioritize portability should factor this into their decision.
Does the Contarex Super have autofocus?+
No. The Contarex Super is a manual focus camera, as listed in its specifications. All focusing must be done by the photographer using the lens focus ring, which is standard for SLR cameras of this period.

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