* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Contax 35mm F/2.8 PC Distagon T* C/Y Mount Lens {86 with 67/86 Ring}
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All rental gear is between Excellent and Like New Minus condition
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Standard accessories included
Contax 35mm f/2.8 PC Distagon T*: perspective control at its finest
Perspective control lenses are a specialized tool, and the Contax 35mm f/2.8 PC Distagon T* is one of the more refined examples to come out of the C/Y mount era. The shift function lets you correct converging verticals in-camera, before the shutter fires, preserving straight lines that would otherwise bow inward when a wide-angle lens is tilted upward. That workflow advantage over post-capture correction is significant: you're working with the full image circle than cropping to compensate.
Zeiss T* coating keeps flare and ghosting in check, which matters when you're shooting toward light sources or in high-contrast architectural environments. At f/2.8, this is also a workable lens in lower light than most dedicated shift optics offer. The 67mm filter thread (accessed via the included 67/86 adapter ring over the 86mm front element) means standard circular polarizers and NDs fit without custom ordering. Manual focus only, which suits the deliberate, tripod-based pace that perspective control work demands.
Who It's For
Architectural photographers who need to keep building facades parallel without fighting software distortion tools will find the shift mechanism earns its place on every assignment. Real estate shooters working tight interior spaces gain control over vertical lines that wide rectilinear lenses typically compromise. Fine art photographers drawn to C/Y glass for its Zeiss T* rendering can work this lens into tabletop or product setups where perspective management matters as much as optical character. Collectors of Contax C/Y system glass will recognize this as one of the more specialized pieces in that lineup.
Key Features
- 35mm focal length with f/2.8 maximum aperture
- PC shift function for in-camera perspective correction
- Zeiss T* anti-reflective coating reduces flare and ghosting
- 67mm filter thread with included 67/86 adapter ring
- 86mm front element diameter
- Manual focus operation
- Contax/Yashica (C/Y) mount
FAQ
- What does the PC (perspective control) shift function do?
- It lets you correct converging verticals in-camera by shifting the lens elements, preserving straight lines that would otherwise bow inward when a wide-angle lens is tilted upward. You're working with the full image circle rather than cropping to compensate.
- What's the filter thread on this lens?
- 67mm, accessed via the included 67/86 adapter ring that sits over the 86mm front element. Standard circular polarizers and NDs fit without custom ordering.
- How does the T* coating perform in backlit or high-contrast situations?
- Zeiss T* coating keeps flare and ghosting in check, which matters when you're shooting toward light sources or in architectural environments with strong contrast.
- Is manual focus a limitation on this lens?
- No. Manual focus suits the deliberate, tripod-based pace that perspective control work demands. This type of shooting is inherently methodical.
- At f/2.8, can I use this lens in lower light?
- f/2.8 is workable in lower light compared to most dedicated shift optics, though this remains a slow aperture by general standards. Expect to use a tripod or solid support regardless.
- What mount is this lens?
- Contax/Yashica (C/Y) mount. It will not fit Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E, or other modern camera mounts without an adapter.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 35mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Mount | Contax/Yashica (C/Y) |
| Filter Thread | 67mm (86mm with 67/86 ring) |
| Front Diameter | 86mm |
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 |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | Manual focus (only) |
| Lens Mount | Contax AE |
| Lens Type | Wide-Angle |
| Max Focal Length | 35mm |
| Min Focal Length | 35mm |
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.
