Zeiss Ikon Contax IIa
The Zeiss Ikon Contax IIa is a Contax RF-mount film rangefinder camera, introduced in 1950. Leica camera price index →
Reference maintained by Thomas Boots
General
- Mount
- Contax RF
- Release Year
- 1950
- Type
- Film
- Model Number
- 563/24
- Serial Range
- Unknown
Dimensions
- Weight
- 510g
- Length
- 44mm
- Width
- 134mm
- Height
- 77mm
Viewfinder & Shutter
- Framelines
- None, combined rangefinder/viewfinder with a fixed 50 mm field; accessory finders required for other focal lengths
- Shutter Speeds
- 1 s to 1/1250 s, B and T
- Shutter Type
- Metal
Features
- Hot Shoe
- No
- Tripod Socket
- Yes
- Self Timer
- Yes
- Flash Sync
- 1/50 s
Contax IIa
The Zeiss Ikon Contax IIa, model 563/24, is the compact postwar redesign of the Contax II. Introduced in 1950, it retained the dual Contax RF bayonet and metal vertical-travel shutter while adding flash synchronization and revised controls [1][2].
The combined finder is intended for the standard 50 mm field, with auxiliary finders used for other lenses. The camera has a cold accessory shoe rather than a hot shoe. Its compact body and broad compatibility make it a central postwar Contax RF collector model [2].
History
Development and Launch
Zeiss Ikon Stuttgart released the IIa in 1950 as a smaller and extensively re-engineered continuation of the prewar Contax II concept [1].
Production Evolution
Early Black Dial bodies use a proprietary mechanical flash connection requiring an adapter. Later Color Dial bodies use a conventional PC socket, with 1/50 second marked for electronic flash synchronization [1].
Special Variants
Black Dial and Color Dial are production revisions within the Contax IIa model, not separate base camera identities. Finish and regional engraving differences belong in variant metadata.
Collector Notes
Verify the dial type, flash connection, shutter operation and rangefinder condition. The prewar 35 mm f/2.8 Biogon is a known compatibility exception on the redesigned postwar body [2].
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