Contaflex TLR

Here we are once again. Finally reaching the end of the long, winding, and deep rabbit hole. The end of this journey to number 1 rewarded with an innovative and very special historical camera. So with no further ado I present you with... the 860/24 twin lens reflex Zeiss Ikon Contaflex.

Produced from 1935-1940 in Dresden, Germany under Hubert Nerwin and designed by Oskar Bergen. Estimated production of about 7500 in those 5 years at a purchaser cost between $250 and $400 depending on the lens selection. (ouch)

In 1935 Zeiss Ikon brought forth the most advanced system camera of the day. The 860/24 TLR used 35mm film which loaded and ran horizontally instead of the typical vertical application (hence the wider base). It was equipped with the first ever integrated photoelectric exposure selenium light meter located behind the front, lifting, name plate and first chrome trim for a camera.

Many options were available in lenses, two film options, and view finders.

Lens options:
-Tessar 50/2.8
-Sonnar 50/2
-Sonnar 50/1.2 standard
-Biogon 2.8 wide angle
-Triotar 85/4
-Sonnar 85/2
Sonnar 135/4
All being bayonet fit.

Film options consisted of the 35mm or replaced with the option of film plate back instead of roll film.
Chrome trim on a camera wrapped with high quality leather. Offered attachments such as lens shades and finders for different lenses.

This example is fully functional (even the light meter works) and is in beautiful shape, equipped with the standard Sonnar 50/1.2 lens. Typical waist view finder and 35mm film back. Probably could use a CLA. Heavy but ergonomically great. Truly an extraordinary functional work of art.