Contax G1

• Carl Zeiss lens enthusiasts
• Those wanting AF rangefinder
• Street photography
• More affordable than G2

• Autofocus rangefinder
• Interchangeable Carl Zeiss lenses
• Titanium construction
• Aperture-priority AE
• Manual focus override
• TTL flash

• Passive AF is slow and inaccurate in low light and close-up
• Slower AF than G2
• Separate zoom viewfinder with no rangefinder patch
• Some lenses need a body upgrade

• AF calibration issues
• Shutter failure
• LCD screen fading
• Battery contact corrosion
• Focus motor noise/failure

An autofocus rangefinder with Carl Zeiss lenses. The G1 (1994) is more affordable than the G2 but its passive AF is slower and less accurate in low light and close-up. Un-upgraded G1 bodies cannot use the 21mm and 35mm lenses (upgraded bodies have a green sticker in the film chamber); the 35-70mm zoom never works on the G1. Test AF carefully with the lens you intend to use.

Typical range

£300 - £550

Excellent condition

~£700

Body only; lenses add significant cost. Indicative, no dated source.

Prices as of 2026-01. UK market, may vary.