Please note: There are literally hundreds of small variations amongst the Contax RF lenses. The values below are based upon the common of examples. In addition, the value of Contax lenses varies greatly between one in Very Good condition compared to one in Excellent Condition, more so than most collectible lenses. Please make note of the values and the corresponding condition of the lens in the tables below.
NOTE: Since the market is very thin for these early lenses, price can vary widely - especially ones in very clean condition. Most of the early Contax lenses have lived a hard life and show it.
Lenses produced from 1932-1936 with black enamel trim
NOTE: Lenses produced from 1936 until WWII, with a Chrome finish and uncoated from the factory. These lenses have survived in much better condition than the earlier Contax lenses.
Lens Model
Amount $$ For Lens in
Excellent- (8+) condition
Tessar 2.8cm F8
$ 275
Biogon 3.5cm F2.8
$ 400
Herar 3.5cm F3
Ultra Rare
Orthometar 3.5cm F4.5
$ 600
Biotar 4cm F2
Biotar 4 1/4cm F2
$ 2,000
Sonnar 5cm F1.5
$ 220
Sonnar 5cm F2 ( coll & rigid )
$ 175 (r) $ 150 (c)
Tessar 5cm F2.8 (coll )
Tessar 5cm F3.5 ( c & r )
$ 350 (r)
Biotar 7.5cm F1.5
Sonnar 8.5cm F2
$ 350
Triotar 8.5cm F4
$ 150
Sonnar 13.5cm F4
$ 125
Tele-Tessar K 18cm F6.3
"Olympia" Sonnar 18cm F2.8
NOTE: With the division of Germany after WWII, lenses were made in East Germany ( Jena ) & West Germany ( Opton ).
Many lenses were produced with an alloy ( aluminum ) rather than brass. All lenses were now coated by the factory.
True or not, collectors feel that East German lenses were inferior to West German lenses, while earlier "Opton" marked W.G. lenses were very slightly inferior to the later W.G. "Carl Zeiss" marked lenses.
