Used Contax G1 | Contax | UsedLens.co.uk

Great for: street travel portrait

Contax G-mount autofocus 35mm rangefinder from 1994 with Carl Zeiss T* interchangeable lenses — the compact entry body to the G system.

The Contax G1 (1994) was the first camera in the Contax G autofocus rangefinder system — a landmark product combining Carl Zeiss T* optics with autofocus in a compact titanium body. The G1's unique AF system uses passive phase-detect implemented in the camera body rather than the lens, enabling precise AF with short-telephoto and wide lenses in a rangefinder form factor.

35mm compact AF rangefinder, Contax G-mount, passive phase-detect AF (camera-body AF motor drives lens AF), 28/35/45/90mm rangefinder framelines, TTL metering, titanium body, top shutter speed 1/2000s.

The G1 was succeeded by the G2 (1996) which improved AF speed and accuracy. G1 AF is noticeably slower than the G2 in practice — an important distinction for buyers. All Contax G-mount lenses (Zeiss Biogon, Planar, Sonnar, Hologon) are compatible on both bodies. On digital mirrorless via adapter, active electronic AF adapters are required for the AF motor to function. The G1/G2 system is prized for the Zeiss optical quality in a compact form.

Test AF speed and accuracy — G1 AF is slower than G2; evaluate in real-world conditions. Check frameline visibility in the viewfinder. Test metering accuracy. Inspect titanium body for wear or damage. Test G-mount lens coupling. Check battery (CR2 lithium).

Avg £350, down 32.0% over 1 month

Price history ↓

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The Contax G1 typically sells around £350 when in stock.

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Used Contax G1 price history

Tracking the used Contax G1 price? Over the past month, the average has fallen 32.0%, from £514 to around £350. Depending on shutter count and condition, expect to pay between £350 and £350 for a used body.

Average market price (line) and typical price range (shaded). Source: UsedLens daily price index, 11 Jun – 11 Jul 2026.