Zeiss Contarex Bullseye, 50mm f2 Planar, Case Y7897 - 1635580
This Contarex Bullseye, #Y7897, is in great condition with minor handling wear. I rate it cosmetically a (9+). The camera is mostly functional; film advances properly, the viewfinder is clear, and the shutter fires, but it's inaccurate at speeds below 2. Sometimes the shutter button itself also sticks. The aperture wheel is smooth. The meter does not function. The included Zeiss 50mm f2 Planar lens, #2370059, is in similar condition, also rated a (9+). The focus ring is smooth, the aperture functions properly, and the glass is clean and clear with no haze, marks, or fungus. There are a few faint specks of dust inside, but they do not affect image quality. This listing also includes a skylight filter, front lens cap, and a two-piece leather case. Please refer to the photos for details.
What Our Experts Think
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Iconic "Bullseye" Design – Features a distinctive light meter dome, making it one of the most recognizable classic SLRs.
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Zeiss 50mm f/2 Planar Lens – Delivers exceptional sharpness, contrast, and beautiful bokeh, making it one of the finest standard lenses of its era.
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Solid All-Metal Build – Engineered for durability and precision, this camera has a reputation for being both rugged and elegant.
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Mechanical Masterpiece – A fully manual camera with finely tuned mechanics, offering an engaging shooting experience.
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Collector’s Piece – With its premium craftsmanship and historical significance, this model remains highly sought after by vintage camera enthusiasts.
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Includes Case – The original leather case adds to its collectible value and helps preserve its condition.
Q&A
Q: What is the Contarex Bullseye with 50mm f/2 Planar?
A: The Contarex "Bullseye" is a high-end 35mm film SLR camera made by Zeiss Ikon, known for its distinctive design and exceptional build quality. It comes with the 50mm f/2 Planar lens, which is renowned for its outstanding sharpness and color rendition.
Q: Why is it called the "Bullseye"?
A: The nickname "Bullseye" comes from the large, centrally located selenium light meter on the front of the camera, which resembles a target.
Q: What makes the 50mm f/2 Planar lens special?
A: The Zeiss 50mm f/2 Planar lens is known for its high-resolution optics, smooth bokeh, and excellent contrast, making it a favorite among photographers for portraits and everyday shooting.
Q: Does this listing include a case?
A: Yes! The listing mentions "Case Y7897," indicating that the original or a compatible protective case is included.
Q: Is the Contarex Bullseye still usable today?
A: Absolutely! As a mechanical film camera, it can still be used with 35mm film. However, its selenium light meter may need to be tested or recalibrated.
Maintenance Tips
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Lens Cleaning: Use a blower or soft brush to remove dust. For the optics, gently wipe with a microfiber cloth and lens-safe cleaning solution, avoiding excessive pressure to protect coatings.
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Shutter & Mechanics: Exercise the camera’s mechanical components (shutter, film advance, aperture, and focus ring) periodically to keep them from stiffening due to inactivity.
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Protect the Case & Body: Keep the camera in its original case to prevent scratches and dust accumulation. Avoid storing in extreme temperatures or humidity.
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Moisture & Fungus Prevention: Store in a dry, cool place with silica gel packs to prevent fungus and corrosion on both the lens and internal mechanisms.
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Check for Wear: Inspect the camera’s meter, shutter speeds, and focusing system. If any issues arise, consult a professional for servicing, as Contarex cameras have complex mechanical systems.
