In attractive condition with no major cosmetic issues (see pictures). Focus is beautifully smooth and consistent throughout its focusing range, with the small detent to indicate that focus is too close for flash intact. The interesting flash-matic mechanism is also working correctly. The iris moves lightly, is totally free of oil, and stops down correctly when the shutter is fired.

Optics are free of haze or separation, and the coatings are in excellent shape on the front and rear elements. There is a very small fungus patch on the inside edge of the front element (pictured) and a small patch inside the rear element (also pictured). There are some internal coating marks inside the rear element that are visible when illuminated by a strong light source (pictured – it’s basically invisible under normal conditions). I’ve digitally tested this lens at 60mp and it performs excellently – it’s sharp for its age. Wide open, it destroys the Contarex 55mm f1.4, trounces my canon 50mm f1.4 LTM (a well known good performer) and can match modern primes when stopped down.

This is the much rarer, later black version of this benchmark lens. The Zeiss Planar needs no introduction as an optical classic, and the Contarex versions are the best made examples there has ever, and probably will ever, be.

 

Lens serial number: 3701560

Date of manufacture: est. mid- 1960’s

Shipping:

UK BUYERS ONLY. All items purchased will be shipped within 48hrs of payment (I will do my best to get the item sent within 24hrs though!) This will be shipped Royal 2^nd class recorded. Collection welcome.