Contax 159MM
Released in 1985, the Contax 159MM was both an upgrade on the earlier Contax 139Q but also the next step in the evolution of Contax SLR cameras. It is a multi-mode, AE capable SLR camera that makes use of the Contax/Yashica lens mount system.
It's most notable feature is a three-headed Program exposure mode that includes high speed, low speed and normal program modes. HP Program can be chosen when the photographer wants automatic exposure calculation favoring a fast shutter speed of 1/1000. Likewise, LP is a low speed mode that favors a slower 1/60th shutter speed. To achieve this Carl Zeiss introduced a new modification to their lenses designated as the "MM" variant. These MM lenses have their minimum aperture painted green on the lens barrel and were required on the 159MM to enjoy its full range of exposure modes.
Other notable features of the 159MM include its top shutter speed of 1/4000th as well as top flash sync speed of 1/250th. In addition to the aforementioned Program exposure modes, the 159MM also had aperture priority and full manual metering modes. It has an ISO range of 12-3200. There is exposure compensation, AE lock, an electronic self-timer and a multiple exposure switch that allows as many exposures on the same frame of film as desired. The viewfinder of the 159MM is fully featured and displays both aperture and shutter information along with a horizontal split prism and micro prism ring to aid in focusing.
Blue Moon Camera and Machine llc
- sales@bluemooncamera.com
- (503) 978-0333
- (503) 978-0370
-
8417 North Lombard Street
Portland, OR 97203
All rights reserved ©2025, Blue Moon Camera and Machine llc