01
Prontor-Reflex Shutter
Equipped with the leaf-based Prontor-Reflex shutter mechanism, enabling flash synchronization across shutter speeds.
Curio Gallery
01 / 07
01 / 07Zeiss Ikon Contaflex Prima 35mm SLR Camera — photograph 4
Highlights
Why this object
still matters.
The Zeiss Ikon Contaflex Prima is a 35mm single-lens reflex camera featuring a built-in selenium exposure meter and a leaf-shutter design. Fitted with a Prontor-Reflex shutter and Pantar optical system, this model represents Zeiss Ikon's refined consumer SLR engineering of the late 1950s. It comes paired with an original Zeiss Ikon fitted brown hard case featuring distinctive chrome trim and an embossed maker crest.
02
Integrated Selenium Meter
Features a front-mounted selenium light meter window requiring no external battery power.
03
Eye-Level Pentaprism
Crisp fixed pentaprism housing embossed with classic flowing Contaflex cursive script.
04
Original Hard Leather Case
Includes the factory brown fitted case complete with chrome piping, logo medallion, and original strap.
05
West German Craftsmanship
Manufactured in Stuttgart by Zeiss Ikon, showcasing precise mid-century German metalwork and assembly.
06
Interchangeable Front Element
Accommodates interchangeable Pantar wide-angle and telephoto front components alongside the standard lens.
Specifications
The useful facts,
clearly recorded.
Measurements, construction, identity, and seller-supplied details are kept together for direct comparison.
Reviewed · Curio catalogue
Maker
Zeiss Ikon AG, Stuttgart
Origin
West Germany
Year
1959
Department
cameras
Packed shipment
2.5 kg · 35 × 28 × 22 cm
Camera Type
35mm single-lens reflex (SLR)
Shutter
Prontor-Reflex leaf shutter
Exposure Meter
Built-in selenium cell light meter
Lens Mount / System
Interchangeable front-element Pantar system (45mm f/2.8 standard)
Viewfinder
Eye-level fixed pentaprism
Case
Original fitted brown hard leather ever-ready case with strap
Details
Close inspection,
recorded in photographs.
Detail № 01 · Zeiss Ikon Contaflex Prima 35mm SLR Camera — photograph 1
Detail № 02 · Zeiss Ikon Contaflex Prima 35mm SLR Camera — photograph 2
Heritage
A traceable life,
carefully recorded.
Provenance documentation was not supplied for this specific Zeiss Ikon Contaflex Prima 35mm SLR Camera; this listing is based on the supplied photographs only.
Optics & Design
The Stuttgart Leaf-Shutter SLR
Zeiss Ikon reimagined the single-lens reflex camera in Stuttgart, integrating leaf shutters directly behind lens elements. As visible on the camera face, the Contaflex Prima married reflex viewing with flash sync capabilities.
Period Accessories
Fitted Protection in Hard Leather
Shown alongside the camera, the sculpted brown ever-ready case provided custom-molded protection. Its prominent chrome-rimmed Zeiss Ikon medallion and top piping mirrored the camera's mid-century aesthetic. That specificity gives the buyer a traceable, emotionally resonant piece of West Germany design history rather than a generic decorative substitute.
Timeline
An object in time,
one continuous story.
1953
Contaflex Introduced
Zeiss Ikon launches the original Contaflex, pioneering the modern leaf-shutter 35mm SLR format.
1959
Contaflex Prima Debut
Zeiss Ikon releases the Contaflex Prima featuring a Prontor-Reflex shutter and front-element interchangeable Pantar optics.
1965
End of Prima Production
Production of the Contaflex Prima concludes as Zeiss Ikon shifts focus to advanced Super BC and 126 formats.
Present
Collector Appeal
The Contaflex Prima remains appreciated by mechanical camera enthusiasts for its distinctive industrial design and solid Stuttgart build.
Condition
Honest wear,
documented clearly.
The camera body and chrome trim appear in well-preserved vintage cosmetic condition with minimal surface wear. Leatherette covering is complete and intact across the front panels. The accompanying brown hard leather case exhibits light age-related scuffing, edge wear, and softened strap leather consistent with careful historical use.
✓
InspectedBody & Chrome Finish
Bright satin chrome top plate, base plate, and prism housing show only minor handling marks without deep dents or heavy oxidation.
✓
InspectedLens & Shutter Assembly
Prontor-Reflex shutter ring, aperture scale, and front glass appear clean with crisp engraved lettering and clear markings.
✓
InspectedLeatherette Covering
Original textured black body vulcanite/leatherette remains securely adhered with no visible peeling or substantial shrinkage.
✓
InspectedEver-Ready Fitted Case
Molded brown case retains its structural shape and bright chrome bezel around the Zeiss Ikon emblem; strap shows typical surface dryness and wear.
Logistics
Inspected, insured,
door to door.
Step 01
Delivery
Inspected, photographed, and packed with its condition report.
Step 02
Shipping
Custom-fit protective packing with tracked, insured courier service.
Step 03
Returns
Return requests are accepted within fourteen days of confirmed delivery.
Step 04
Dispatch
Prepared for courier handoff within three to five business days.
Acquisition
Make it part of
your collection.
Contact the seller for more information or to discuss this object.
✓ Insured Shipping✓ 14-Day Returns✓ Condition Report✓ Reviewed Listing
Zeiss Ikon Contaflex Prima 35mm SLR Camera