Zeiss Ikon Contina II - Classic German Precision with Novar-Anastigmat 45mm f/3.5

Zeiss Ikon Contina II - Good Condition | Compact Film Camera | Classic German Precision with Novar-Anastigmat 45mm f/3.5

The Zeiss Ikon Contina II (S/N: 527724) is a masterpiece of mid-century German engineering, representing the height of the "golden era" of compact 35mm cameras. This robust, all-metal folding camera is equipped with the renowned Novar-Anastigmat 45mm f/3.5 lens, a three-element optic celebrated for its classic "Zeiss rendering," characterized by gentle contrast and a nostalgic, painterly bokeh. Featuring a high-quality Prontor-SVS shutter, the Contina II offers a tactile and deliberate photographic experience. Its compact, folding design makes it an ideal companion for travel and street photography, providing the professional build quality and mechanical soul that have made Zeiss Ikon a legendary name among film enthusiasts worldwide.

Key Features

• Sharp Novar-Anastigmat 45mm f/3.5 prime lens for authentic vintage 35mm imagery

• High-performance Prontor-SVS leaf shutter with speeds from 1s to 1/300s plus Bulb

• Versatile 45mm focal length providing a natural "standard" perspective

• Integrated uncoupled selenium light meter for vintage exposure assistance

• Robust all-metal folding construction for maximum portability and lens protection

• Fully mechanical operation—no batteries required for the shutter or film advance

• Precision-engineered film transport and rewind mechanisms

Introductory Paragraph The Zeiss Ikon Contina II is the definitive choice for the purist who appreciates the mechanical perfection of West German craftsmanship. This specific unit (S/N: 527724) features the 45mm focal length, which is widely considered the "sweet spot" for 35mm photography, offering a slightly wider view than a traditional 50mm. The Contina is particularly favored for its "stealth" factor; the leaf shutter is nearly silent, making it perfect for candid street scenes and quiet environments. Because it is a purely mechanical instrument, it forces the photographer to slow down and consider every setting, turning the act of taking a photo into a meditative and rewarding creative process.

Condition Report Good condition. The camera body (S/N: 527724) shows normal signs of light use and minor cosmetic surface wear consistent with its vintage age. The Novar-Anastigmat 45mm f/3.5 lens is optically clear, free from fungus, haze, or significant scratches. The Prontor-SVS shutter has been tested and fires accurately across the available speed range. The aperture blades are clean and responsive. The folding mechanism operates smoothly and locks firmly into place. The internal film chamber is clean, and the bellows (if applicable to this specific folding sub-variant) are light-tight.

Specialist Note "The Contina II is a camera that feels like a precision watch in the hand. What I love about this S/N: 527724 is the Novar lens; it has a very specific 'glow' when shot wide open that is incredibly flattering for portraits. When stopped down to f/8, it delivers a level of detail that reminds you why Zeiss was the king of optics. It’s an incredibly quiet camera—the shutter is just a faint 'click'—making it one of the best tools for discreet street photography. For anyone who wants a rugged, battery-free camera that captures the true essence of film, the Contina is a fantastic, high-quality choice."

What's Included

• Zeiss Ikon Contina II 35mm Camera (S/N: 527724)

• Integrated Novar-Anastigmat 45mm f/3.5 Lens

• Original Zeiss Ikon Leather Ever-Ready Case

• [Optional: Take-up Spool if internal]

Technical Specifications

• Camera Type: Compact Film Camera

• Film Format: 35mm (135)

• Lens: 45mm f/3.5 Novar-Anastigmat (Prime Lens)

• Shutter: Prontor-SVS Leaf Shutter (1s - 1/300s)

• Focus Type: Manual Scale Focus

• Category: 1. Cameras ▸ Compact Film Camera