Can I Use Contax G2 Lens on M8?

[Buzz Kanter]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

I have some wonderful Zeiss lenses from my old Contax G2 and was wondering if there is a practical way to use them on my M8.

 

All leads, warnings, and advice welcomed.

[adan]

They need extensive conversion to add an M-mount, a focusing ring, and a cam to link to the rangefinder. Except for the 16mm Hologon, which already has the focus lever, doesn't need the cam (scale focused anyway) but does need a mount conversion.

 

Converted Contax G lens for Leica M Packages | japan exposures

 

Alternatively, there are also Zeiss lenses made directly in Leica M mount these days. Different optical designs from the Contax-G Zeiss lenses.

 

Welcome to Carl Zeiss Camera Lenses

 

In either case, there is the additional question of infrared filtering and 6-bit coding for use on the M8.

[Buzz Kanter]

They need extensive conversion to add an M-mount, a focusing ring, and a cam to link to the rangefinder. Except for the 16mm Hologon, which already has the focus lever, doesn't need the cam (scale focused anyway) but does need a mount conversion.

 

Converted Contax G lens for Leica M Packages | japan exposures

 

Alternatively, there are also Zeiss lenses made directly in Leica M mount these days. Different optical designs from the Contax-G Zeiss lenses.

 

Welcome to Carl Zeiss Camera Lenses

 

In either case, there is the additional question of infrared filtering and 6-bit coding for use on the M8.

 

Thanks. I sent a note to the Japanese Exposures people to find out what's involved. I admire the glass on the old Contax lenses and find the Leica lens prices a bit steep.

[andybarton]

You haven't seen the price of the conversion yet...

[adan]

I don't know, Andy. Did you check the site? For most of the lenses the price is under $1000 INCLUDING the lens (preconverted stock). At one time the conversions did run $2000+, but not these days, it seems.