A Contax RTS regression...
Jun 16, 2021 14:47:53 GMT
on Jun 16, 2021 14:47:53 GMT
Posted: Jun 16, 2021 14:47:53 GMT
I don't recall seeing a photo of the full family of Contax RTS cameras so here's one for your interest that includes all 4 models.
RTS Regression
The cameras from l-to-r as you view the image are: RTSIII, RTSII, RTS Fundus and the original RTS. The RTS with its gold demonstrator plate has been in my possession since 1978 and is still thriving; it's only needed two changes of leathers and 3 sets of light-seals and mirror dampers in 43 years - not bad going! Those not familiar with the RTS Fundus will spot that it has a lock-button below the shutter speed dial and a raised surround to the shutter button which is above the RTS lettering; this was to help avoid accidentally firing the shutter when wearing gloves as the camera was produced for use in laboratories. It is also known as the Contax RTS Scientific and many have that stencilled on the base-plate.
If I was being scrupulously fair, I suppose I should have matched the RTSIII with the other cameras by mounting them on their PMD/W6 Professional Motor Drives which would make their overall size and weight more equal. However, if you then add the Power Packs directly to the base of the drives, the older cameras far outweigh the RTSIII, in no small part due to having to use 12 AA batteries in each unit. In truth though, when I was shooting sport for a whole day, I had the Power Packs on a belt to reduce weight as I was also using the 250 Back to reduce down-time or you'd miss more than half the action due to constantly loading and unloading film. With the drive running at maximum speed, you'd have to change film every 7 seconds! This exposes the one big failing of the RTSIII - it has a faster drive built-in BUT no bulk back. Despite being able to freeze action at 1/8000s, you'd need 5 bodies and 3 assistants to minimise the loss of potential shots due to film changing every 5 seconds.
RTS Regression
The cameras from l-to-r as you view the image are: RTSIII, RTSII, RTS Fundus and the original RTS. The RTS with its gold demonstrator plate has been in my possession since 1978 and is still thriving; it's only needed two changes of leathers and 3 sets of light-seals and mirror dampers in 43 years - not bad going! Those not familiar with the RTS Fundus will spot that it has a lock-button below the shutter speed dial and a raised surround to the shutter button which is above the RTS lettering; this was to help avoid accidentally firing the shutter when wearing gloves as the camera was produced for use in laboratories. It is also known as the Contax RTS Scientific and many have that stencilled on the base-plate.
If I was being scrupulously fair, I suppose I should have matched the RTSIII with the other cameras by mounting them on their PMD/W6 Professional Motor Drives which would make their overall size and weight more equal. However, if you then add the Power Packs directly to the base of the drives, the older cameras far outweigh the RTSIII, in no small part due to having to use 12 AA batteries in each unit. In truth though, when I was shooting sport for a whole day, I had the Power Packs on a belt to reduce weight as I was also using the 250 Back to reduce down-time or you'd miss more than half the action due to constantly loading and unloading film. With the drive running at maximum speed, you'd have to change film every 7 seconds! This exposes the one big failing of the RTSIII - it has a faster drive built-in BUT no bulk back. Despite being able to freeze action at 1/8000s, you'd need 5 bodies and 3 assistants to minimise the loss of potential shots due to film changing every 5 seconds.
