Contax RX

Contax RX – A Cleverly Designed, Beautifully Built 35mm Classic

The Contax RX, released in 1994 by Kyocera, stands as one of the most refined and thoughtfully designed 35mm SLRs in the Contax lineup. Combining traditional mechanical precision with modern digital enhancements, the RX offers an exceptional shooting experience for photographers who appreciate manual control with a touch of technological assistance.

Designed with professional and enthusiast photographers in mind, the RX delivers premium craftsmanship, intuitive ergonomics, and compatibility with the legendary Carl Zeiss T* lenses. With innovative digital features like the real-time focus assist system and depth of field indicator, the RX provides an edge over other film SLRs of its time.

### A Perfect Balance of Manual & Digital Precision

Unlike fully manual film SLRs, the Contax RX enhances the shooting process with subtle digital aids while maintaining the feel of a classic camera. The built-in Digital Rangefinder Focusing and Depth of Field Indicator make manual focusing more precise, catering to photographers who demand accuracy without sacrificing the hands-on experience of film photography.

The camera’s robust yet ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip and well-placed controls. Whether you're shooting in fully manual mode or taking advantage of its auto-exposure modes, the RX remains a joy to use, excelling in portrait, street, and landscape photography.

### Key Features of the Contax RX

- Digital Rangefinder Focusing: A built-in real-time focus assist system that helps with manual focusing precision.

- Digital Depth of Field Indicator: Displays a real-time DOF readout, helping photographers assess focus coverage at different apertures.

- Auto Exposure Modes: Offers Aperture-Priority, Shutter-Priority, and Full Program Auto modes, making it versatile for various shooting styles.

- Contax/Yashica MM Lens Mount: Fully compatible with Carl Zeiss T* lenses, ensuring exceptional optical performance.

- Bright & Clear Viewfinder: Provides a well-lit, informative display for accurate framing and exposure adjustments.

- Ergonomic & Premium Build: A well-balanced, solid metal body with intuitive controls, built to withstand professional use.

- High-Speed Shutter: Capable of shooting at speeds up to 1/4000s for fast-action photography.

- Customizable Shooting Experience: Includes multiple exposure settings, exposure compensation, and a variety of metering modes.

### Why the Contax RX is a Film Photographer’s Favorite

The Contax RX seamlessly blends classic SLR reliability with modern digital innovations, making it a standout choice for photographers who love the tactile feel of film but appreciate a little assistance. The combination of the Digital Rangefinder, Depth of Field Indicator, and world-class Zeiss lenses sets it apart from other film SLRs.

Even today, the RX remains a sought-after camera for collectors and serious film shooters. Whether you're capturing fast-moving subjects, carefully composing portraits, or immersing yourself in street photography, this camera delivers a refined and effortless shooting experience.

### Final Thoughts

For those seeking a high-end 35mm film SLR with a mix of manual precision and digital guidance, the Contax RX is a top-tier choice. Its seamless integration of technology with traditional SLR mechanics makes it an excellent option for those who want both reliability and innovation in a film camera.

### Contax RX Specifications

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

- Lens Mount: Contax/Yashica MM mount (compatible with Carl Zeiss T* lenses)

- Autofocus: Manual focus only with Digital Rangefinder Focusing assist

- Exposure Modes: Manual, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Program Auto

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

- Flash Sync Speed: 1/125 sec

- Viewfinder: 94% coverage with bright display and digital overlays

- Film Advance: Motorized automatic film advance and rewind

- Metering System: Multi-pattern TTL metering, center-weighted, and spot metering

- Custom Functions: Various exposure and shooting adjustments available

- Power Source: 2× CR2 lithium batteries

- Dimensions: Approximately 153mm × 102mm × 69mm

- Weight: Approximately 770g (body only)