Help identify this kit

DigitalRelish

DigitalRelish

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Will
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This little lot has found its way into my hands to find out more about. Does anyone know what it is and what it might be worth (it's not for sale, the owner would just like an idea).

[edit - it's one of these]

Oh, I found out how to open the back and there appears to be film in the cam. So, I've at least knackered the last few frames (the counter is at 0). The film won't wind on any further, but any idea how I can release the film winding mechanism to allow me to rewind the film back into the canister?

[edit - got the film out thanks to wikipedia!]

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Thanks for any help :)
 
This is one of the most technologically advanced SLR system made by Zeiss. This also was single handedly responsible for its bankruptcy.

The most interesting feature is interchangeable back on a 35 mm;there are very few of them ( only 3 I think). No Japanese manufacturer ever made it.

Its an absolutely fantastic piece of kit; with outstanding lens lineup from Zeiss.

These are expensive if functioinging properly- the camera body will be around 300-400£; and each lens 200-600 £ ( depending of the which lens, lens condition etc etc).

Best to get valued and then insured properly; and A CLA done on the body.

Ujjwal
 
It's what's known as a Bullseye Contarex. They'te highly sort after and one of the most collectable cameras going. They often command high prices, depending on condition of course.

Zeiss set out with this camera to make a camera that would last forever, stinting nothing on materials used. They failed of course. The biggest problem is that they're a nightmare to work on if they need attention. Every screw is individually glued into place, which is the first hurdle for repairers to overcome, and some of the exotic metals used in the camera have caused issues over the years with chemical reactions between them.

There are a few people who specialise in servicing and repairing them, but be very careful where you send it for attention if it needs it.
 
I can't tell you how much I used to drool over these in the mags at the time, but the price was astronomical!
 
LOL. It still looks a beast doesn't it! :eek:

I've been tempted a few times, but it really is something you need to buy very carefully. I must say it looks very clean.
 
The camera's gone back home now :( It was sooo heavy, but felt sooo nice to operate. My Nikon FM2n feels sooo light now!

Apparently, this camera's got some history behind it and was previously owned by a photographer for The Times and even used to photograph Princess Diana!
 
2 models were made, early model made1959-1966,sold with a planar 50mm f2 lens, later model made between 1964-1966, this model had a data strip slot (whatever that is) at the rear,this model is worth at least double the price of the ealier model.

Last value i have was in 1992, about £600 mint, whether its worth more or less now is anybodys guess:)
 
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