The Contax G2 stands as one of the most advanced rangefinder cameras in the world. It is an exquisitely crafted electronic autofocus 35mm camera, equipped with some of the finest optics available. Additionally, it features auto exposure, automatic film loading, advance and rewind functions, as well as TTL metering for both flash and ambient light.

The Contax G2's autofocus system is notably more sophisticated and refined compared to the manual focus LEICA system that has its roots in the 1950s.

The G2 offers an exceptional user experience, characterized by precision, speed, and quiet efficiency. Its autofocus and metering functions operate flawlessly, while the film advances with a soft, smooth motion after each shot.

The optics of the Contax G2 are on par with, if not superior to, those of Leica, and significantly outperform lenses from Nikon or Canon. A contributing factor to this superior performance is the G2's design, which allows rear lens elements to be positioned closer to the film plane than in Leica cameras. This design gives lens designers more flexibility in creating high-quality wide-angle lenses. For example, the Contax G Zeiss 21mm f/2.8 lens exhibits considerably less distortion than the LEICA ELMARIT-M 21mm f/2.8 ASPH, and both outperform many SLR lenses.

The Zeiss lenses in particular are remarkable. When used with high-resolution scans, such as those made at 25MP equivalent, the sharpness and clarity are noticeably superior to those obtained from Nikon lenses, particularly in larger print sizes where the Zeiss lenses exhibit less distortion.

Beyond its technical prowess, the G2 excels in ergonomics, offering an intuitive and enjoyable shooting experience. Despite initial skepticism about the brand's somewhat awkwardly translated motto—"a camera that works"—it becomes apparent that the G2 has been meticulously designed with user-friendly controls in mind. Every control, from AE lock and focus to film advance, shutter speed, aperture, and even bracketing, has its own dedicated, easy-to-access dial. There are no complex menus or the need to combine multiple buttons, making it a camera that allows for seamless shooting.

Contax's legacy is rooted in excellence. For instance, when renowned photographer Ansel Adams used 35mm, he favored Contax over Leica. Although the company ceased operations in the 1950s, Zeiss acquired the rights to the Contax name, and in the 1990s, licensed it to Japan's Kyocera for the production of modern Contax cameras.

Despite its association with Germany through its branding, the Contax G2 is entirely Japanese-made, as evidenced by the design of the user manual and its use of DIN fonts.

The G2 is a robust, precise camera that is not only easy to use but also lightweight, portable, and a joy to carry and shoot. It delivers exceptional results, making it a truly satisfying experience for photographers. Upon using it for the first time, many users find themselves quickly burning through their test rolls in sheer enjoyment, as the G2 invites one to shoot simply for the pleasure it brings.