Contax RTS II

Contax RTS II – A Refined Flagship SLR with a Familiar Face and New Heart

Released in 1982, the Contax RTS II arrived as the natural successor to the highly regarded original RTS. While its external appearance remained largely faithful to the original Porsche-designed aesthetic, the real evolution occurred beneath the surface. The RTS II introduced a series of internal enhancements that significantly improved performance, reliability, and precision—solidifying Contax’s position in the professional 35mm SLR market.

A Subtle Evolution in Design

Familiar Exterior: From the outside, the RTS II is nearly indistinguishable from its predecessor. This was by design. Contax knew the RTS’s clean, ergonomic layout and sleek styling had struck a chord with photographers. By retaining this design language, users could transition seamlessly to the upgraded model without a learning curve.

Refined Build Quality: While the visual changes were subtle, the internal construction received meaningful improvements. Higher-quality materials and refined assembly methods gave the RTS II an even more solid and reassuring feel in the hand—further enhancing its reputation for professional durability.

A Significant Internal Overhaul

Upgraded Shutter Mechanism: One of the standout upgrades was the electronically controlled focal plane shutter, which allowed for faster top speeds and improved timing accuracy. This made the RTS II a reliable tool in high-speed and precision-demanding scenarios.

Enhanced Electronics: The metering and exposure systems were overhauled to offer more consistent results across a wider variety of lighting conditions. Photographers could now rely on better auto-exposure responsiveness and improved low-light accuracy.

Smooth Real-Time Response: As with the original, "RTS" stands for Real Time System—a name that reflected the camera's near-instant shutter response. In the RTS II, this performance was further refined, making it an ideal tool for action, documentary, and street photography.

Continuing the Contax Legacy

The RTS II didn't attempt to reinvent the wheel—it perfected it. By preserving the much-loved design of the original RTS and marrying it with modernized internal components, Contax delivered a camera that felt both familiar and refreshingly advanced.

The result was a premium 35mm film SLR that catered to serious photographers who valued craftsmanship, precision, and optical excellence. Whether you were an RTS owner looking to upgrade or a new photographer in search of a professional SLR, the RTS II delivered on every front.

Final Thoughts

Today, the Contax RTS II is celebrated not only for its role in continuing the legacy of the RTS line, but also for being one of the finest examples of refined camera engineering from the early 1980s. With its understated design, robust build, and legendary Carl Zeiss lens compatibility, the RTS II remains a top choice for collectors and film shooters alike who demand elegance and performance in equal measure.