* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Contax 21mm f/2.8 Distagon T* MM C/Y Mount Lens {82}
-
$1,758.00
Select Payment Method
-
KEH Certified™ pre-owned gear, expertly inspected†
-
All rental gear is between Excellent and Like New Minus condition
-
Standard accessories included
Contax 21mm f/2.8 Distagon T*: Zeiss wide-angle in C/Y mount.
The Contax Distagon T* 21mm f/2.8 MM is a Zeiss-designed wide-angle prime in the Contax/Yashica mount. At 21mm with a maximum aperture of f/2.8, it gives serious reach into wide-angle territory without sacrificing low-light capability. The T* designation appears in the lens name as Zeiss's coating identifier, and the 82mm filter thread reflects the scale of the front element.
This is a manual-focus prime built to the optical and mechanical standards Contax glass is known for. Shooters who value deliberate, tactile control over autofocus speed will find the C/Y mount ecosystem rewarding. The MM designation is part of the official model name as listed by Contax.
At f/2.8 on a 21mm prime, there's enough light-gathering for interior architectural work and night landscapes without resorting to extreme ISO. The 82mm filter thread accommodates polarizers and graduated NDs for landscape and cityscape work. Zeiss glass at this focal length carries a reputation earned over decades of serious use.
Who It's For
Architectural photographers working with C/Y-mount film bodies will find the 21mm field of view well suited to interiors and facades. Landscape photographers who shoot on film and want a fast, wide prime for low-light golden-hour or night work benefit from the f/2.8 maximum aperture. Street and documentary photographers using Contax SLR bodies who prefer manual focus primes will appreciate the focal length for environmental context shots. Film photographers already invested in the C/Y mount system gain a wide-angle option built to Zeiss optical standards.
Key Features
- 21mm focal length for serious wide-angle reach
- f/2.8 maximum aperture for low-light capability
- Contax/Yashica (C/Y) mount
- 82mm filter thread for standard accessories
- Manual focus with tactile mechanical control
- Zeiss T* optical design
- Distagon wide-angle prime construction
FAQ
- What mount is this lens?
- Contax/Yashica (C/Y) mount. It's a manual-focus prime designed for film bodies that accept C/Y glass.
- What's the filter thread size?
- 82mm. That size accommodates standard filters like polarizers and graduated NDs for landscape work.
- Is this a Zeiss lens?
- Yes. The Distagon is Zeiss-designed and manufactured for the Contax system. The T* designation in the model name is Zeiss's coating identifier.
- What aperture does it shoot at?
- Maximum aperture is f/2.8. At 21mm, that's enough light-gathering for interior architectural work and night landscapes without pushing ISO.
- How does manual focus feel on this lens?
- It's built to Contax mechanical standards - tactile and deliberate. This is for shooters who value precise, hands-on focus control over autofocus speed.
- Is the MM designation part of the official model name?
- Yes. The full model name as listed by Contax is Distagon T* 21mm f/2.8 MM.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 21mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Mount | Contax/Yashica (C/Y) |
| Filter Thread | 82mm |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Contax |
|---|---|
| Filter Size | 82mm |
| Focus Type | Manual focus (only) |
| Lens Mount | Contax AE |
| Lens Type | Wide-Angle |
| Max Focal Length | 21mm |
| Min Focal Length | 21mm |
Learn what to expect from each condition, cosmetically. Images are representative of each grade and may not show the exact item you receive. All equipment is guaranteed to work as intended, unless otherwise noted. We also occasionally offer items that fall .
Exceptions
- New
- New in box complete with manufacturer's USA warranty. Not previously owned or used.
- Like New
- Essentially new with no signs of use. “Open box.” In manufacturer's packaging with original accessories and instructions. 180-day warranty.
- As Is
- Non-functional or damaged. Equipment will not work. Usable for parts. Not covered under KEH warranty and non-returnable.
Like New Minus
Like New Minus
Barely used with virtually no traces of wear. Only the closest inspections will reveal slight use. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Excellent Plus
Excellent Plus
Lightly used with limited signs of wear. Exceptionally nice but may have slight wear on finish visible. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Excellent
Excellent
Noticeably used with average signs of wear. Shows moderate wear for the age of the item, with the possibility of blemishes and/or minimal dings. Lens glass may have average dust and zoom/focus ring tension may have slight looseness or tightness overall, but will not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Bargain
Bargain
Frequently used with above-average wear. May have dents, dings, or finish loss. Lens glass may have small scratches, dust, and blemishes, and zoom/focus ring tension may have moderate looseness or tightness overall, but should not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Ugly
Ugly
Heavily used with extensive visible wear. Equipment is rough, with multiple impressions in the finish, excessive finish loss and brassing. Glass will have marks, fungus and/or heavy/cloudy haze which could affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. Not covered under KEH warranty.