Contax 159 MM

Contax 159 MM – A Classic Contax SLR with Advanced Automation

Released in 1985 by Kyocera as the successor to the popular Contax 139Q, the Contax 159 MM quickly became recognized for its innovative features and user-friendly automation. This advanced 35mm SLR represented a significant leap forward, introducing a fully automatic program mode designed to cater to photographers seeking both precision and convenience.

### The Perfect Blend of Automation and Control

The Contax 159 MM was the first camera in the Contax lineup to feature compatibility with Zeiss MM lenses, enabling full automatic exposure where both aperture and shutter speed are selected by the camera. Its blend of automation and manual controls offered photographers unmatched versatility, making it suitable for beginners and experienced shooters alike.

### Key Features of the Contax 159 MM

- Fully Automatic Program Mode: Automatically selects optimal shutter speed and aperture when using Zeiss MM lenses, providing effortless shooting.

- Fast Shutter Speeds: Offers speeds up to 1/4000s, ideal for freezing motion or achieving shallow depth of field even in bright conditions.

- Enhanced Viewfinder & Ergonomics: Features an improved, clearer viewfinder and optimized controls, making it easier and more enjoyable to use compared to its predecessor.

- Robust Contax Build Quality: Known for exceptional craftsmanship, the 159 MM maintains the durable yet compact construction synonymous with Contax cameras.

- Versatile Exposure Options: Supports both manual and automatic operation, ensuring photographers retain complete creative freedom.

### Why the Contax 159 MM Remains a Favorite

Photographers continue to appreciate the Contax 159 MM for its exceptional balance between automation and precise manual control. Its robust construction, coupled with legendary Carl Zeiss optics, ensures reliability and superb image quality, whether capturing portraits, landscapes, or action.

The ability to swiftly transition from fully automatic shooting to manual exposure makes the 159 MM incredibly versatile. Its compatibility with Zeiss MM lenses also grants photographers access to outstanding optical performance, featuring sharpness, clarity, and beautiful image rendering.

### Final Thoughts

Today, the Contax 159 MM holds its own as a respected classic in 35mm film photography circles. With a sophisticated blend of innovative features, robust build quality, and ease of use, it remains a compelling choice for film enthusiasts seeking a high-performance SLR.

### Contax 159 MM Specifications

- Camera Type: 35mm Single Lens Reflex (SLR)

- Lens Mount: Contax/Yashica (C/Y) with Zeiss MM compatibility

- Exposure Modes: Fully Automatic Program, Aperture Priority, and Manual

- Shutter Speed Range: 1/4000 sec to 16 sec, plus Bulb (B) mode

- Flash Sync: 1/250 sec

- Viewfinder: Bright pentaprism with LED display for exposure information

- Film Advance: Manual lever advance

- Metering System: TTL center-weighted

- Multiple Exposure Capability: Supported

- Battery: Two LR44 or SR44 batteries

- Dimensions: Approximately 135mm × 86mm × 50mm

- Weight: Approximately 540g (body only)