Zeiss's compact Contax short tele — the Sonnar T* 85mm f/2.8, lightweight manual-focus glass for the C/Y mount.
The Zeiss Sonnar T* 85mm f/2.8 was a compact short-telephoto prime for the Contax/Yashica mount, part of the Contax lineup from the mid-1970s. It used the Sonnar design to keep the lens small and light next to the faster 85mm Planars.
This is a manual-focus C/Y-mount lens with an 85mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/2.8. The Sonnar layout allowed a slimmer, lighter body than the fast Planar versions. Additional specifications are omitted where they cannot be verified.
At 85mm f/2.8 the lens suits portraits, travel and general short-telephoto use, offering the flattering perspective of the focal length in a package that is easy to carry. It renders cleanly and remains manageable in size.
Used copies are more affordable than the fast 85mm Planars and offer a lighter alternative. Look for internal haze, fungus and coating wear, confirm smooth focus and clean aperture blades, and check the front element. It adapts to mirrorless with a C/Y adapter.