Zeiss's classic Contax portrait prime — the Planar T* 85mm f/1.4, fast manual-focus glass for the C/Y mount.
The Zeiss Planar T* 85mm f/1.4 was the fast short-telephoto portrait prime for the Contax/Yashica mount, part of the Contax system from the mid-1970s and one of its most admired lenses. It became a benchmark portrait optic for the mount.
This is a manual-focus C/Y-mount lens with an 85mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/1.4. The Planar design and T* coating targeted contrast and colour while the bright aperture enabled shallow depth of field. Further figures are omitted where they cannot be confirmed.
The 85mm f/1.4 is a classic portrait combination, giving flattering perspective and a soft background separation that photographers seek out for people work. Its rendering wide open is central to its lasting reputation.
This is a popular and valued lens that holds strong prices on the used market. Check for haze, fungus and coating scratches, confirm smooth focus and dry, responsive aperture blades, and inspect the large front element. A C/Y adapter allows mirrorless use.