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Contax 35mm f/2 Zeiss Planar T* Lens for G-Series, Titanium {46} (for G2, Modified G1 Body)

Model #286867
  • $776.00

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New in box complete with manufacturer's USA warranty. Not previously owned or used.
Essentially new with no signs of use. “Open box.” In manufacturer's packaging with original accessories and instructions. 180-day warranty.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Non-functional or damaged. Equipment will not work. Usable for parts. Not covered under KEH warranty and non-returnable.
EX Excellent
With Case, Caps and Hood
$776.00
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UG Ugly
$341.00
Only 1 left!
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Zeiss Planar 35mm f/2 for Contax G, titanium finish.

The Contax G-mount Zeiss Planar T* 35mm f/2 is one of the sharpest 35mm lenses ever fitted to an autofocus rangefinder system. The Planar T* design, a double-Gauss formula refined by Zeiss over decades, delivers the kind of mid-frame rendering and smooth focus falloff that dedicated lens enthusiasts still talk about. The T* anti-reflection coating keeps contrast high and flare well-controlled across the frame. At f/2, there's genuine subject separation at 35mm, which isn't a given at this focal length.

The titanium variant carries the same optical formula as the standard version, distinguished by its finish and build character. It accepts 46mm filters and pairs with the Contax G2 for full autofocus operation, or with a modified G1 body. The G2's AF system brings this lens to life for street and documentary work where manual focus would slow you down. For photographers who have adapted the G-mount glass to mirrorless bodies via third-party adapters, this lens has built a second life as a manual-focus prime with Zeiss rendering at a fraction of what comparable Sony Zeiss or Leica glass costs.

Who It's For

Street photographers shooting with a Contax G2 body get autofocus at f/2 in a compact package, a rare combination for 35mm film work. Documentary shooters drawn to the focal length's natural perspective will find the Planar T* rendering earns its reputation on color negative and slide film alike. Mirrorless shooters adapting legacy glass to Sony E or Leica L mounts use this lens for its optical pedigree at a price well below comparable modern alternatives. Collectors specifically seeking the titanium finish will recognize its rarity within an already finite G-series production run.

Key Features

  • Zeiss Planar T* double-Gauss optical formula
  • 35mm focal length with f/2 maximum aperture
  • Contax G-mount with autofocus on G2 body
  • 46mm filter thread
  • Titanium finish exterior
  • Smooth focus falloff for subject separation

FAQ

Is this lens autofocus on the Contax G1?
It autofocuses on the G2. The G1 requires modification to use AF lenses; most photographers run it as manual focus on G1 bodies.
How does the titanium finish differ optically from the standard version?
It doesn't. The titanium is cosmetic. Optics are identical - same Planar T* formula, same coating, same optical performance.
What's the filter size for this lens?
46mm. Standard screw-in filters work without restriction.
Can you use this on mirrorless cameras?
Yes, via third-party Contax G-to-E or G-to-L adapters available from aftermarket manufacturers. It runs manual focus on mirrorless bodies since the G-mount AF signals don't translate.
What kind of focus falloff does this lens produce at f/2?
Smooth and pronounced for a 35mm. Subject separation is genuinely usable, which sets this apart from slower 35mm rangefinder lenses. Wide open, bokeh stays clean and neutral.
How does Zeiss T* coating affect this lens in high-contrast light?
Flare is well-controlled and contrast stays punchy even when shooting into strong backlight. T* keeps internal reflections minimal, which matters for rangefinder work where you're often shooting handheld in variable conditions.
SpecificationValue
Focal Length35mm
Max Aperturef/2
MountContax G

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 46mm
Focus Type Autofocus (camera motor)
Lens Mount Contax G
Lens Type Wide-Angle
Max Focal Length 35mm
Min Focal Length 35mm