The Contaflex was the first SLR camera released by Zeiss in 1953. The Contaflex I was the first of a line that would continue into the mid 1960's. It had true reflex viewing and focusing with a bright Fresnel viewfinder with a central split screen / ground glass circle for accurate focusing. It was produced from 1953 - 1958. Early models had the "old" shutter speed progression of 1-2-5-10-25-50-100-250-500, but this version manufactured (according to the serial number) in 1955/1956 has the "new" shutter speed progression of 1-2-4-8-15-30-60-125-250-500. The lens is fixed, and focuses to approximately 2.8 feet and had apertures ranging from f/2.8 to f/22. A depth of field scale is engraved on the front of the lens standard.The mirror is non rapid return and requires advancing the film to cock the shutter and return the mirror to viewing position. This is a knob wind camera, later models had a rapid advance lever.

The back is removable to allow film loading. A large rewind button is located on the bottom plate along with a tripod socket and dual back release knobs.

This is a substantial camera with heft and an unmistakable feel of precision. The back is stamped with the Zeiss Ikon logo and "Made in Germany Stuttgart". The right hand end of the back is stamped with the serial number, which is also stamped into the bottom of the camera, visible only when the back is removed. 

The shutter appears to fire on this camera and the mirror flips up, however all shutter speeds sound the same so it will need an overhaul prior to being able to be used. Sorry, but no returns are allowed. However it is a great example of a classic camera that helped propel the evolution of the 35mm SLR to the digital SLR's of today. A nice chunk of history to display alongside your other treasures!