The rtsii stands out right away. It feels like a pro tool in your hands. Photographers pick it for its simple charm and great results.
You get real joy from using it. The design comes from smart minds at Contax. It pairs well with top glass.
History of the rtsii
The rtsii came out in 1982. It followed the first RTS model from 1975. Contax made it as their flagship SLR.
This camera targeted serious shooters. It kept many old accessories. Users still love it after 40 years.
Porsche helped shape its look. The body feels modern and clean. It fits the Contax family perfectly.
Build Quality That Lasts
The rtsii uses strong metal parts. Leather grips add comfort. You feel its solid weight at once.
It weighs about 735 grams. The construction beats many rivals. Film loading works smoothly too.
You never worry about cheap feel. The shutter sounds soft and sure. This design helps you focus on the shot.
Viewfinder and Metering Features
Look through the rtsii finder. It shows 97 percent of the scene. The image looks bright and clear.
Magnification sits at 0.87 times. You can swap eight focus screens. LEDs give quick shutter info.
Metering stays center-weighted. It works well in most light. Lock the exposure with one lever.
Shutter and Exposure Modes
The rtsii uses quartz timing. Shutter speeds run from 16 seconds to 1 over 2000. A titanium foil blade moves fast.
You get aperture priority mode. Manual metering blinks for correct speed. Backup at 1 over 50 helps if battery dies.
Flash sync hits 1 over 60. TTL metering pairs with good units. This setup gives you control fast.
Lens Options and Zeiss Magic
Pair the rtsii with Carl Zeiss glass. The C/Y mount opens many doors. A 50mm f1.4 Planar lens shines bright.
You get sharp images every time. Focus feels precise by hand. Other primes like 85mm or 28mm work great too.
Real User Stories With the rtsii
Anil Mistry tried the rtsii for fun. He felt blown away by its beauty. The 50mm lens gave lovely frames.
He tested many films. Smooth rewind made loading easy. The camera urged him to shoot more.
Another owner added a winder. It reached five frames per second. Travel felt light and quick.
Tips for New rtsii Owners
Clean the lens with care. Use a soft cloth only. Store the camera in a dry bag.
Check the battery often. One 6V cell powers it all. Keep a spare in your kit.
Load film the right way. The sleeve helps the leader stay put. Practice a few times first.
Here is a simple list of quick tips: • Test shutter speeds at home. • Use center-weighted metering outdoors. • Pair with prime lenses for best results. • Clean contacts monthly. • Enjoy the process slowly.
For extra tech guides on gear, see heliogen.co.uk.
How the rtsii Compares to Others
The rtsii beats the 139Q model. Its viewfinder looks brighter. Pro specs feel stronger overall.
Nikon F3 offers more lenses. Yet the rtsii gives better dark displays. Leica R4 costs more for less value.
Later Contax models add speed. The rtsii keeps things simple. You get pure photography fun.
Buying and Caring for Your rtsii
Search for clean copies from Japan. Prices stay fair today. Check the shutter and meter first.
Fix small issues at a shop. Leather may age but works fine. Many bodies still run strong.
Read this full review for more details: Review of the Contax RTS II Quartz.
See real shots here: 5 Frames with the Contax RTSii.
View this setup photo: Contax RTS II with Zeiss Lens on Flickr.
Common Questions About the rtsii
What is the best lens for rtsii? The 50mm f1.4 Planar works well. It gives sharp and smooth images.
Does the rtsii need batteries? Yes, one 6V cell runs it. Carry spares for long days.
Can I use modern film? Sure. Many types load fine.
Is the rtsii good for beginners? It teaches manual skills fast. You learn focus and light quickly.
Why pick the rtsii today? It feels special and lasts long. Results look pro every time.
Final Thoughts on the rtsii
The rtsii delivers pure camera joy. Its build and lenses create lasting memories. You get reliable shots without fuss.
Pick one and start shooting. The rtsii rewards every click.
What do you think about the rtsii? Have you tried this classic yet?
References
- 5 Frames with The Contax RTSii – by Anil Mistry. 35mmc.com. April 4, 2018. Personal stories and sample frames.
- Contax RTS II with Carl Zeiss Planar 50mm f/1.4. Flickr photo by trphotoguy. 2014. Visual setup example.
- Review: The Contax RTS II Quartz. davidde.com. May 28, 2022. Full specs, comparisons, and pros.