Rangefinder35mm
intermediateadvanced
Discontinued
Contax G1
1994-2002
Carl Zeiss lens enthusiasts
Format
35mm
Shutter
1/2000
Max speed
Metering
TTL
Battery req.
Weight
460g
Best For
- Carl Zeiss lens enthusiasts
- Those wanting AF rangefinder
- Street photography
- More affordable than G2
Features
- Autofocus rangefinder
- Interchangeable Carl Zeiss lenses
- Titanium construction
- Aperture-priority AE
- Manual focus override
- TTL flash
Limitations
- AF can be inaccurate
- Slower AF than G2
- Electronic viewfinder parallax
- Some lenses need ROM update
Common Issues to Check
- AF calibration issues
- Shutter failure
- LCD screen fading
- Battery contact corrosion
- Focus motor noise/failure
Buying Guide
An autofocus rangefinder with exceptional Carl Zeiss lenses. The G1 is more affordable than G2 but has slower, less accurate AF. Some early G1 bodies need ROM update for certain lenses. Test AF carefully with the lens you intend to use. The Zeiss lenses are the real draw - exceptional optics at reasonable prices.
Pricing
Typical Range£300 - £550
Excellent Condition~£700
Body only; lenses add significant cost
Prices as of 2026-01. UK market, may vary.
Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error