The Kiev IIIa is
a true Contax III copy and the second Kiev model equipped with a light
meter. It was made by Arsenal factory in Kiev in the mid to late 50's.
Kiev-3a is identical to the original Kiev III - it still features a stabilizing
foot on the bottom plate and a tall, Contax III type light meter.
The specifications are the same
as Contax III's.
- Shutter speeds: B, 1/2 - 1/1250
- Rangefinder base: 90 mm
- Lens: coated Jupiter-8, f =
5 cm, 1:2, coated, a copy of Zeiss Sonnar.
- Flash synch
- Self-timer
The camera was made in 1957 by
Arsenal plant in Kiev.
The camera is in good+/exc.- condition,
shows its age but clean and attractive. The leather covering is complete,
no brassing on the chrome parts. The rangefinder/viewfinder is clear.
The lens is also clean. The
meter responds to light but it is safe to call it unusable. The
shutter and self-timer are working properly.
The Kiev IIIa is much less common
than its successors - Kiev-4 and 4m. It is a good user and a desirable
collectible camera. As well as any Soviet Contax copy, the Kiev IIIa is
a rugged and precision rangefinder equipped with a great lens. It is capable
of taking advantage of the modern films, and is simply a great fun to
use.
