Distagon 18mm Focusing Problem (?)

<p>I have been offered a Carl Zeiss Distagon 18mm lens in C/Y mount in what look like as impeccable conditions as regards both the glass and the barrel. I currently don`t own a Contax-series SLR (I will get one if I decide to buy this lens), and so I cannot test the Distagon on-camera.<br>

It shows a curious behaviour as regards focusing: the ring turns smoothly, but the lens` rear element does not move at all in response. It just stays where it is, irrespective of the ring being turned in either direction.<br>

Is this a sign of something being seriously amiss, or is it normal and focusing takes place some other waqy (e.g., by magic)?</p>

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<p>I can't address the C/Y version but I have the earlier version for Rollei QBM and I would have to say that it is either front focusing or internal because the rear element does not move on this one. It is a superb lens!</p>

<p>Don't have this lens unfortunately, but it well may be internal focusing....I would be surprised if there was anything wrong with it. BTW, this lens was originally designed to fit the Contarex and is still going strong...Zeiss must have got it right!</p>

<p>Many thanks for your help. Internal focusing is an obvious proposition, and I think I´ll take the plunge and check this out.</p>

<p>With a C/Y mount there is plenty of cheap hardware out there. The FXD is a really fine performer but needs a battery as do all the ContaX bodies but one very expensive (S2). The Yasica bodies are a real bargain. Some don't require batteries at all or only for the meter. The FX2 is a favorite. The FX3 also, Note the FX3 "Super" model with a 2000th manual shutter. Happy Hunting.. please post results! </p>