Camera · Compact
Contax T3
2001-2005
Discontinued35mmAdvanced
Ultimate compact image quality
- Format
- 35mm
- Mount
- Fixed lens
- Metering
- Built-in
- Shutter
- 1/1200
- Battery
- CR2
- Weight
- 230g
Battery req.
Max speed
Best for
- Ultimate compact image quality
- Street photography
- Travel (pocketable excellence)
- Collectors
Features
- Carl Zeiss Sonnar 35mm f/2.8 T* lens
- Titanium construction
- Smaller than T2
- Aperture-priority AE
- Manual focus override
Limitations
- Expensive
- Electronic with no backup
- Repairs difficult
- High collector premium
Common issues to check
- Lens mechanism failure
- LCD display problems
- Electronic failures
- Battery door issues
- Flash problems
Buying guide
The T3 (2001) is smaller than the T2, with a Zeiss Sonnar 35mm f/2.8 T* lens and a titanium body. Collectors distinguish single-teeth and double-teeth versions of the lens cover; no difference in performance is documented. Test everything thoroughly - repairs are hard to find. Expect to pay premium prices for a working example.
Pricing
- Typical range
- £1500 - £2500
- Excellent condition
- ~£3000
Indicative, no dated source.
Prices as of 2025-12. UK market, may vary.
Specifications
| Format | 35mm |
| Years produced | 2001-2005 |
| Mount | Fixed lens |
| Shutter type | Electronic |
| Shutter speeds | 16s - 1/1200 |
| Flash sync | 1/180 |
| Metering | External Sensor |
| Battery required | Yes (CR2) |
| Weight | 230g |
| Dimensions | 105 x 63 x 30.5mm |