Carl Zeiss Planar 55mm f1.4, designed for the Contarex system. Finished in black. It was sold between 1961 and 1970. This particular lens was made in 1968, and the following production lot introduced the Blitz engraving.

Although it was a high-end lens at the time, a substantial number of 8,275 units were produced, making it the third most manufactured Contarex lens after the Planar 50mm f2 and Distagon 35mm f4.

It features a 5-group 7-element optical design, with a minimum focusing distance of 45 cm. The lens alone weighs approximately 382 grams.

Well-regarded for its beautiful rendering, this Planar can be enjoyed not only on Contarex cameras but also on modern mirrorless systems using appropriate adapters.

There is a slight scuff on the knurled section of the helicoid, but overall it has a very clean appearance with only minimal signs of use. The white and red engravings remain vivid, giving it the feel of a near-new item.
Fully overhauled in July 2025, with all operations now exceptionally smooth.
There are a few very light cleaning marks and a small stain-like area of coating deterioration near the edge of an internal element, but it should not affect actual photography. The center of the glass is crisp and clear.
Comes with an Ikolor C 1x (skylight) filter and original front and rear caps.