Carl Zeiss Jena “Strawberry” Sonnar. Serial number in the 1.5 million range. Manufactured in 1934. An early chrome-finished example.
It features the same barrel design as the black/nickel Sonnar 50mm f1.5 made for the Contax I (Black Contax), and is considered to be among the very earliest chrome versions produced. For this reason, the aperture ring is also of the same type as those from the Black Contax era, differing from the more common “Strawberry” Sonnars made for the Contax II and III.
Incidentally, advertisements from 1936, the release year of the Contax II and III, show the Contax II fitted with a Sonnar of the same appearance as this example.
A non-coated lens with a 3-group, 7-element construction. The minimum aperture is f11. Internal bayonet mount. While somewhat weak against strong backlight, it is a lens best enjoyed for its delicate rendering under such conditions. Like the Sonnar for the Black Contax, the filter rim is not threaded; it accepts a 42mm slip-on filter or hood.
A rare piece.
Overall, there are some minor signs of wear, but the plating remains in good condition, giving it a relatively clean appearance.
It was fully overhauled in March 2026. The aperture operation has been adjusted to a smooth, well-damped feel. As a characteristic specific to this individual lens, a distinct clicking sound occurs when set to the minimum aperture (this cannot be eliminated). Focus has been checked using a Contax body and a focusing screen.
Due to its early production, fitment may vary depending on the body or adapter, sometimes slightly loose or, conversely, tight.
The front element shows some degree of coating deterioration and a relatively higher number of light cleaning marks. There is also balsam separation visible around the periphery of the front group.
Test shooting results were good. Sample images have been uploaded to our photo gallery, and we would appreciate it if you could take a look. Being uncoated, it is somewhat weak against strong backlight, but it delivers the classic rendering characteristic of vintage lenses.
A genuine front cap and a third-party rear cap are included.
