Can a Nikon S adapter be used for a Contax RF 135mm lens on a Fuji X-E1?
Asked 1/27/2013
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I have a 135mm Zeiss Jena lens in Contax RF mount that I want to use on my Fuji X-E1. I’ve found dedicated Contax adapters that are much more expensive than Nikon S adapters, even though the mounts seem mechanically compatible. I’ve read claims that Nikon S and Contax RF have different flange distances. For a longer lens like 135mm, would that difference still affect focusing, or can a Nikon S adapter work fine?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
13y ago
2 Answers
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NOTE:
According to Wikipedia the flange distance of these mounts is exactly the same, so you may not have an issue at at all. You should double-check the distances and probably fix Wikipedia if they are mistaken.
No. If you want to be able to focus at any distance, the flange distance has to be exact.
Otherwise, the lens may mount but you will lose the ability to focus at certain distances, sometimes even beyond a few centimeters.
The price of such things is usually based on product and demand, meaning either they produce so few that a higher price is needed to cover development costs or they perceive that people with Contax lenses are willing to pay more to preserve their investment.
Originally by user1620. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user1620
13y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes—if the adapter positions the lens at the correct flange distance, it should work fine regardless of focal length. In general, flange distance must be accurate if you want proper focus across the full range; if it’s off, you can lose focus at some distances, including infinity.
For Contax RF and Nikon S, one community answer notes that the flange distance is listed as the same, which suggests there may be no practical issue. Another user reports actually using a Nikon S-mount adapter with this type of lens and getting correct focus.
The main difference with some of the more expensive adapters is that they may include an extra focusing helicoid. That can be useful for some lenses, but for a 135mm lens it may not be necessary.
So the safe conclusion is: a simple Nikon S adapter can work for a Contax RF 135mm on a Fuji X-E1, as long as the adapter is correctly made. The long focal length does not remove the need for correct flange spacing, but in this case users have reported success.
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