OVERVIEW:
The Contax 28mm MM F2 Distagon’s optical formula is based on a Zeiss 28mm cinematic lens. The cinematic lens design was subsequently adapted for 35mm SLR use, so sometimes the 28mm F2 Distagon is referred to as the “Hollywood 28”. One of the key features of the 28mm F2 Distagon is the floating element design which provides significantly better near field performance and a short minimum focus distance. The Contax 28mm F2 Distagon has an extremely short 10" minimum focus distance.

The Contax 28mm F2 Distagon's shallow depth field and outstanding near field performance result in the lens being well suited for full length portraits and close-up photography. 28mm is not often associated with close-up shots, but the 28mm F2 Distagon excels in this application (thanks to its floating lens element design).

The 28mm F2 Distagon does exhibit some curvature of field, resulting in soft corners. If a composition calls for sharp corners, focus maybe need to be pulled forward to accommodate. Stopping down the aperture will help also. At F8 the 28mm F2.0 Distagon’s landscape performance is the best I have used at 28mm (to date). The lens produces excellent resolution, perfect corners, micro contrast, little or no CA (fringing) and pleasing color.

SPECS:
Lens Composition 9 Elements / 8 Groups
Floating Lens Group Yes
Angular Field of View 74º
Minimum Focus .25 Meter / 10 inches
F-Stop Scale F2 to F22 in 1 Stop Increments
Aperture MM & AE - Fully Automatic on Contax RTS
Filter Size 55mm - Non-rotating
Lens Cap K-51 55mm Snap-type Plastic Cap
Lens Hood 55 / 86 Ring + No. 1 Metal Hood
Hood Cap K-94 99mm Metal Cap
Rubber Hood G-2 Soft Rubber Hood
Lens Pouch No. 2
Lens Size 62.5mm x 76mm / 2.46 in. x 3.00 in.
Weight 485 Grams / 1.07 Pounds