Contax's compact SLR — the Aria, multi-pattern metering, four exposure modes, C/Y mount, 1998.
The Contax Aria was a compact, lightweight electronic 35mm film SLR in the Contax/Yashica system, made by Kyocera. It was among the smallest and lightest of the Contax bodies and brought multi-mode metering and full exposure automation to the range, all while taking Carl Zeiss T* lenses. It was aimed at enthusiasts and travellers who wanted Zeiss optics in a body that was easy to carry.
It is a 35mm single-lens-reflex camera on the Contax/Yashica mount, with an electronically timed vertical focal-plane shutter that requires battery power to fire. Metering is TTL and selectable between centre-weighted, spot and evaluative patterns, and exposure modes cover program, aperture-priority automatic, shutter-priority automatic and manual. The camera has a built-in film winder and an LCD data display. Because timing is electronic, correct power is needed for operation.
This body suits general, travel, portrait and street photography for users who want Zeiss lens quality in a light, well-automated package. Its selectable meter patterns and full set of exposure modes make it flexible for varied conditions, while its compact size makes it practical to carry all day, which is a large part of its appeal.
For a used purchase, test the electronics and the LCD data display, confirming the meter patterns, all exposure modes and the film winder work correctly. Check foam light seals and mirror-damper foam for perishing, verify shutter accuracy across speeds without capping, and test rewind. Inspect the finder for prism haze, confirm the battery type and reliable power-up, and remember that an electronic Contax body will not shoot with dead batteries.