Zeiss Contarex 25mm f2.8 Distagon Black 3970343 - 1635581

Contarex 25mm f2.8 Distagon Black 3970343 - 1635581

This Contarex 25mm f2.8 Distagon Lens (Black), #3970343, is in great condition with minor handling wear. I rate it cosmetically a (9+). The focus ring is smooth, the aperture functions properly, and the glass is clean and clear with no haze, marks, or fungus. There are a few faint specks of dust inside, but they do not affect image quality. This lens includes a front cap, but no rear cap.

What Our Experts Think

• Legendary Zeiss Optics – The Distagon design ensures superb sharpness, contrast, and minimal distortion, even at wide angles.
• Fast f/2.8 Aperture – Provides excellent low-light performance and depth of field control, making it versatile for various shooting conditions.
• Wide 25mm Focal Length – Ideal for landscapes, architecture, and documentary photography, delivering a broad field of view with stunning clarity.
• Premium All-Metal Build – Built to last a lifetime, with precision engineering that reflects Zeiss’s high-quality craftsmanship.
• Smooth Manual Focus – Offers precise focusing control, perfect for photographers who value tactile, mechanical precision.
• Rare Black Finish – The black edition adds a sleek, modern look to this classic lens, making it highly desirable for collectors.

Q&A

Q: What is the Contarex 25mm f/2.8 Distagon Black?
A: The Contarex 25mm f/2.8 Distagon is a high-quality wide-angle lens designed for Zeiss Ikon Contarex cameras. With its advanced optical design, it delivers excellent sharpness, contrast, and minimal distortion, making it ideal for landscape, architecture, and documentary photography.

Q: What makes this lens special?
A: This lens features Zeiss’s legendary Distagon optical formula, ensuring edge-to-edge clarity and superior color rendition. The black finish is a rarer version compared to the more common silver models, making it highly collectible.

Q: Is this lens compatible with modern cameras?
A: While designed for Contarex film cameras, it can be adapted for use on modern digital cameras with the appropriate mount adapter, though functionality may be limited.

Q: What condition is the lens in?
A: The serial number suggests a specific production batch, but condition details would depend on factors like glass clarity, mechanical operation, and cosmetic wear.

Maintenance Tips

• Gentle Cleaning: Use a blower or soft brush to remove dust. Clean lens elements with a microfiber cloth and lens-safe solution, applying minimal pressure to protect coatings.
• Avoid Scratches & Coating Damage: This lens has delicate coatings—do not use abrasive materials or excessive force when cleaning. Always store with front and rear caps on.
• Check for Smooth Focus & Aperture: Periodically turn the focus and aperture rings to keep them from stiffening due to inactivity.
• Prevent Fungus & Moisture Damage: Store in a dry, cool environment with silica gel packs to avoid fungus buildup on the glass and internal elements.
• Protect the Mount & Body: Handle carefully to prevent wear on the Contarex bayonet mount. If mounting feels tight or rough, inspect for dust or debris.