Contax G1 Camera Review: Born in 1994, Reviewed in 2024

Field magazine

Contax G1 User Tips

One of the Contax G1’s most well-known shortcomings is its focus accuracy, a feature of considerable improvement in the G2 that helps it fetch a resale price often $1,000 more than our humble G1. While it’s tough to provide a simple fix-all that will ensure every frame on your roll is in perfect focus, it’s important to explain how the camera’s focusing process works:

Begin by centering the viewfinder on an area in your frame you want in focus, then depress and hold the shutter button halfway so that the focusing mirror can match its distance. While still holding the shutter button down halfway, reframe the viewfinder to the composition you want and depress the shutter until the shutter fires. Rush this process, or lift a finger when you shouldn’t, and you’ll likely miss focus. And, if your subject is in motion, there’s not a high chance of the G1 catching it in focus.

Buying a Used Contax G1

If you’re shopping for a Contax G1 body, there are only a few things you’ll want to look for as you browse online—via websites like KEH or eBay—or in-person at your local used camera dealer. In 2024, depending on its condition, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $500 for a a Contax G1 body.

LCD Screen: While switched on, check for definition in the small LCD panels. It’s not unusual to find one that’s beginning to fade or “bleed,” but it’s less than ideal to have one that limits your ability to read the shutter count or autofocus mode.

G2 Lens Upgrade: If the film loading decal inside the body is silver, you’ll be limited to the core 16mm, 28mm, 45mm, and 90mm G lenses. But, if you find one with a green label, it’s been converted for use with the 21mm and 35mm lenses intended for the Contax G2.

Body Condition: Most obviously, look for any significant signs of physical abuse–titanium is a very strong metal, but try to avoid any G1 camera bodies that have physical proof of a hard life.

Source: https://www.fieldmag.com/articles/contax-g1-film-camera-review