* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Contax 28-85mm f/3.3-4 Vario Sonnar T* MM C/Y Mount Lens {82}
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Standard accessories included
Contax Vario Sonnar 28-85mm T*: Zeiss glass in C/Y mount.
The 28-85mm focal range covers a lot of practical ground, from architectural wide shots to compressed portrait framing, all in a single lens. Maximum aperture varies between f/3.3 and f/4 across the zoom range. T* anti-reflective coating, Zeiss's own formula, controls flare and contrast in ways that show up clearly in the final image than just on a spec sheet.
The MM designation is the version you want for modern Contax/Yashica body use. It enables aperture-priority and program AE modes, giving you metering flexibility that older C/Y glass couldn't always provide. Manual focus operation is precise, as expected from this era of Zeiss engineering. With a C/Y adapter, this lens becomes a manual focus option on a range of mirrorless systems, where focus peaking and magnified live view make the manual-only workflow genuinely functional than a compromise.
For what Zeiss-branded glass of this caliber cost new, finding this range of focal lengths with T* coating in a single lens represents real value for anyone already invested in quality optics.
Who It's For
Photographers shooting on Contax/Yashica film bodies get the most direct benefit: the MM designation opens up aperture-priority and program AE modes for a genuinely flexible shooting experience. Travel and documentary shooters will appreciate the 28-85mm span covering wide environmental context through portrait-length compression without a lens swap. Mirrorless digital shooters using a C/Y adapter gain access to Zeiss T* coating at a fraction of current equivalent lens pricing. Street photographers who prefer full manual control and a compact zoom over a bag of primes will find the focal range well-suited to their needs.
Key Features
- 28-85mm zoom range covers wide to portrait framing
- T* anti-reflective coating reduces flare and contrast issues
- MM designation enables aperture-priority and program AE modes
- Variable maximum aperture f/3.3-f/4 across zoom range
- 82mm filter thread
- C/Y mount with manual focus operation
- Compatible with mirrorless systems via C/Y adapter
FAQ
- What does the MM designation mean for Contax bodies?
- MM (Multi-Mode) enables aperture-priority and program AE modes on compatible Contax/Yashica bodies. Older C/Y lenses lack this functionality, so the MM version gives you metering flexibility that non-MM glass cannot provide.
- Is this a constant aperture lens across the zoom range?
- No. Maximum aperture varies between f/3.3 and f/4 across the 28-85mm range, so you'll have less light at the longer focal lengths than at 28mm.
- Can I use this on mirrorless cameras?
- Yes, with a C/Y adapter. It becomes a manual focus option, and mirrorless systems' focus peaking and magnified live view make manual focusing genuinely workable rather than a compromise.
- What's the filter thread size?
- 82mm. That's a larger diameter than many standard zooms, so you may need to source or repurpose filters accordingly.
- How does the T* coating perform?
- T* is Zeiss's own anti-reflective formula. It controls flare and contrast in ways that show up visibly in the final image-not just a spec-sheet improvement.
- What focal range does this cover?
- 28-85mm in a single lens, which runs from architectural wide shots through to compressed portrait framing. It's a practical all-in-one range for many shooting situations.
- Is this Zeiss glass?
- Yes. Contax branded it under their Vario Sonnar T* line, but it's Zeiss optical engineering.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 28-85mm |
| Max Aperture | f/3.3-4 |
| 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 MM |
| Lens Type | Wide-Angle, Standard / Normal |
| Max Focal Length | 85mm |
| Min Focal Length | 28mm |
Learn what to expect cosmetically from each grade. Images are representative and may not reflect the exact item. All gear is guaranteed functional unless noted. Accessories are typically not included unless listed. Like New through Bargain grades include a 180-day warranty. Items may also be available.
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 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. 180-day warranty.
Bargain
Bargain
Heavily used with noticeable cosmetic and optical wear, but performance is mostly unaffected. 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. 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.
