SLR35mm
advancedprofessional
Discontinued
Contax RTS III
1990-2000
Maximum film flatness/sharpness
Format
35mm
Shutter
1/8000
Max speed
Metering
TTL
Battery req.
Weight
865g
Best For
- Maximum film flatness/sharpness
- Studio work
- Serious Zeiss lens users
- Those wanting ultimate C/Y body
Features
- Vacuum film plane (ceramic)
- 1/8000s shutter speed
- 100% viewfinder coverage
- 5fps continuous shooting
- Multi-pattern metering
- TTL flash metering
Limitations
- Very heavy
- Complex electronics
- Repair difficult/expensive
- Vacuum system can fail
Common Issues to Check
- Vacuum motor failure (common, expensive)
- Shutter issues
- LCD problems
- Electronics failure
- Rubber grip deterioration
Buying Guide
The flagship Contax SLR with unique vacuum film flattening system for maximum sharpness. The vacuum motor is prone to failure - ask about service history. Very heavy. Test vacuum function. Check all electronics. When working, the RTS III extracts maximum performance from Zeiss glass. Budget for potential expensive repair.
Pricing
Typical Range£400 - £800
Excellent Condition~£1000
Prices lower than expected due to reliability concerns
Prices as of 2026-01. UK market, may vary.
Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error