* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Contax 45mm f/2 Zeiss Planar T* Lens for G-Series, Titanium {46}
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$737.00
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KEH Certified™ pre-owned gear, expertly inspected†
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All rental gear is between Excellent and Like New Minus condition
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Standard accessories included
Zeiss Planar optics for the Contax G rangefinder system.
The 45mm f/2 Zeiss Planar T* is the standard lens for the Contax G-Series rangefinder system, and it earns that role on optical merit than convention. The Planar design is one of the most proven double-Gauss configurations in photography, and Zeiss built this version with their T* multi-coating to control flare and hold contrast across the frame. At 45mm on a 35mm camera, the field of view sits just slightly longer than a classic 35, making it a natural choice for shooting that demands a touch more compression than a wide lens delivers. The 46mm filter thread keeps the physical profile compact, consistent with the G-Series system's design philosophy.
The titanium finish on this version isn't cosmetic distinction alone, it matches the G1 and G2 titanium camera bodies, keeping a matched kit for photographers who assembled that pairing. At f/2, there's enough aperture to work in dim available light without flash, and the Planar rendering at open apertures has a character that film photographers specifically seek out. For anyone shooting the Contax G system, this is the lens you build around.
Who It's For
Street and documentary photographers shooting Contax G bodies get a 45mm perspective that reads as natural without going wide, and the f/2 maximum aperture handles interior or low-light work without forcing a flash. Film photographers drawn to the Zeiss Planar rendering at wide apertures will find this the core lens of the G system. Travel shooters who want compact rangefinder gear benefit from the small filter thread and the overall slim profile the G-Series was built around. Collectors and shooters who run titanium G1 or G2 bodies will want this version specifically for a visually matched kit.
Key Features
- Zeiss Planar T* double-Gauss optical design
- 45mm focal length for subtle compression on 35mm film
- f/2 maximum aperture for available-light shooting
- 46mm filter thread for compact profile
- Titanium finish matches G1 and G2 bodies
- Contax G-Series rangefinder mount
FAQ
- What's the actual field of view on a 35mm camera with this 45mm lens?
- It's slightly longer than a standard 35mm, giving you a touch more compression and framing flexibility without the wider perspective of a true wide lens.
- Does the titanium finish serve a purpose beyond looks?
- Yes - it matches the G1 and G2 titanium camera bodies, so you can build a cohesive kit if you went that route.
- How does the Zeiss Planar design perform at f/2?
- The Planar is a proven double-Gauss configuration with character at open apertures that film photographers specifically seek out, especially in dim available light without flash.
- What does the T* coating do?
- Zeiss's T* multi-coating controls flare and holds contrast across the frame, which matters on a rangefinder where you're often framing against bright backgrounds.
- What filter size do I need?
- 46mm - the compact thread size keeps the physical profile minimal, consistent with the G-Series system design.
- Is this lens weather-sealed?
- No weather sealing is documented for this lens; it's built to the standard for film-era Contax G optics.
- Can I use this on a digital Contax G camera if one exists?
- No - the Contax G mount was exclusive to film cameras and the rangefinder system. There is no digital Contax G body.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 45mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2 |
| Mount | Contax G |
| Filter Thread | 46mm |
| Color | Titanium |
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 | Standard / Normal |
| Max Focal Length | 45mm |
| Min Focal Length | 45mm |
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.
