Zeiss Ikon Contina Ia

The Zeiss Ikon Contina Ic was the second Contina generation, introduced in 1956. The first Contina model was a klapp-style camera, which was common pre-war. The Ia was a monoblock, simplified model aimed at the up-and-coming mid-market user segment. It had all that the amateur shooter needed, on a budget. Specifications were similar to the Contina I, with a top speed of 300 compared to the earlier 250. At that time, all German camera makers, big and small, had followed the trend set by Leitz, using the 35mm format.

A later model, named the same by Zeiss, commonly referred to as the Contina Ib, had a different breastplate with rounded, softer lines. A third model, the Contina Ic, had the viewer shifted sideways. See the images below. Today, most cameras offered for sale are the Ia, where some 115,000 were made, while the two later models totalled about 40,000.

The camera is well made, true to Zeiss’ standards. The unit I have is spotless, all functions well as if it was made yesterday.

The trigger is modestly positioned within the frame counter ring, which is within the lever winder. The rewind ring has a film-type memo. The viewer is on the small side, as with most other cameras of the era.

The shutter speed and aperture dials are locked together to retain a constant EV. The EV is marked in red on the left side. To disengage the dials, press the tab on the aperture dial and select both values. Once released, it will retain the EV. The flash synch selector is at the base of the lens barrel, marked X/M, with a V for the timer.

For the collector, it is a lovely model, a pleasure to hold or use. They are freely available at modest prices. I think the large number of Contina cameras available for sale is valid evidence of the quality, as so many have survived the burden of time.