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Rolleiflex 2.8 GX 80 Model 2 - "Expression"

Highslide JS
Mid 1995 - End 1996, 1000 pieces.
Redesigned focusing knob and a new Copal shutter.
Serials:
Coded, above Rolleiflex plate.

Taking lens:
Rollei Planar HFT 2.8/80, bayonet 3.
Viewing lens: Schneider or Zeiss Heidosmat 2.8/80, bayonet 3
Shutter:
Copal Nr. 0 X, 1 - 1/500 sec., B, X-sync., self timer.
Film: 120 for 12 exposures exp. 6x6, & 35mm adapter Rolleikin 2.
Film Transportation
: winding lever with auto stop on first exposure, exposure counter for exposures 1-12. Blank film pressure plate.
Built in TTL exposure metering with 2 photo cells.
Dimensions
: 10.9x10.8x14.7cm.
Weight: 1,235 grams.
51


Rolleiflex 2.8 GX Model 2 - "75 Years Rollei"

Highslide JS
Special Edition celebrating 75 Years Rollei. Gold plated Rolleiflex plate and shutter release / flash contact. Brown Lizard print leather surfaces.
Serials:
Individual numbering 01/01 - 12/75, 900 pieces made in 1995, 75 each month. Example: the first one in January being 01/01, the last one 01/75.

Taking lens:
Rollei Planar HFT 2.8/80, bayonet 3.
Viewing lens: Schneider or Zeiss Heidosmat 2.8/80, bayonet 3
Shutter:
Synchro Compur X, 1 - 1/500 sec., B, X-sync., self timer. (Note: most other GX Models 2 have a Japanese Copal or Seiko shutter!)
Film: 120 for 12 exposures exp. 6x6, & 35mm adapter Rolleikin 2.
Film Transportation: winding lever with auto stop on first exposure, exposure counter for exposures 1-12. Blank film pressure plate.
Built in TTL exposure metering with 2 photo cells.
Dimensions
: 10.9x10.8x14.7cm.
Weight: 1,275 grams.

Comes with a dedicated book "The History of the Twin Lens Rolleiflex" in a wood presentation box and included a set of Rolleinar II and III close up lens attachments and certificate.

52


Rolleiflex 2.8 GX Model 2 - "Club Jersey"

Highslide JS
Year 1996, 100 pieces
Special order by Mr. Ian Parker for the UK RolleiClub Jersey.
Cat. No. 80 808
Serials: either the name of the owner, or a special combination of letters and numbers on top of Rollei label.
Taking lens:
Rollei Planar HFT 2.8/80, bayonet 3.
Viewing lens: Rollei Heidosmat 2.8/80, bayonet 3
Shutter:
Synchro Compur X, 1 - 1/500 sec., B, X-sync., self timer.
Film: 120 for 12 exp. 6x6
Film Transportation: winding lever with auto stop on first exposure, exposure counter for exposures 1-12.
Built in TTL exposure metering with additional flash control via SCA 356 adapter.
Dimensions
: 10.9x10.8x14.7cm.
Weight: 1,235 grams.
  • Plaque on camera back –
    “Jersey - Ian Parker”
  • Solid gold Rollei logo on hood
  • individually numbered
  • Burgundy red Lizard print leather
  • CE engraved in bottom tripod plate

 

53


Rolleiflex 2.8 GX Model 1 - "Royal"

Highslide JS
Special Edition mostly gold plated with brown African Lizard surfaces & hand finished Japanese Urushi high gloss lacquer in Royal Blue.
1996 - 2000, only 200 pieces each year.
Serials:
Special range from 10001 - 101000

Taking lens:
Rollei Planar HFT 2.8/80, bayonet 3.
Viewing lens: Schneider or Zeiss Heidosmat 2.8/80, bayonet 3
Shutter:
Seiko # 0, 1 - 1/500 sec., B, X-sync., self timer.
Film: 120 for 12 exposures exp. 6x6, & 35mm adapter Rolleikin 2.
Film Transportation: winding lever with auto stop on first exposure, exposure counter for exposures 1-12. Blank film pressure plate.
Built in TTL exposure metering with 2 photo cells.
Dimensions
: 10.9x10.8x14.7cm.
Weight: 1,275 grams.

Comes in wood presentation box.

This camera was presented parallel to a "Royal" version of the famous
Rollei 35.

54


Rolleiflex 2.8 GX Model 2

Highslide JS
Year 2000
The legendary twin-lens reflex camera commemorating the 80th anniversary of Rollei.
Cat. No. 80 808
Serials:
coded
Taking lens:
Rollei Planar HFT 2.8/80, bayonet 3.
Viewing lens: Rollei Heidosmat 2.8/80, bayonet 3
Shutter:
Synchro Compur X, 1 - 1/500 sec., B, X-sync., self timer.
Film: 120 for 12 exp. 6x6
Film Transportation: winding lever with auto stop on first exposure, exposure counter for exposures 1-12.
Built in TTL exposure metering with additional flash control via SCA 356 adapter.
Dimensions
: 10.9x10.8x14.7cm.
Weight: 1,275 grams.
  • Plaque on camera back – “80 Years”
  • Focusing knob with anniversary imprint
  • Certificate of authenticity of special edition
  • Anniversary brochure with highlights of 80 years of Rollei history
  • Special edition available from April of anniversary year
55

>www.rolleiclub.com - Rollei - Rolleiflex cameras, technical details

Rolleiflex 2.8 FX

Camera type Twin-lens reflex camera with TTL metering and TTL auto flash control.

Frame size 6x6 cm.

Film-speed setting on camera from ISO 25/150 to ISO 6400/390.

Exposure metering Center-weighted average metering by two silicon photo diodes. Five-LED display in viewfinder.

Metering range
EV 3 - 18/3.2 - 100000 asb/ 1 - 33000 cd/m at ISO 100121', with 80 mm f/2.8 lens.

Lens
80 mm Planar f/2.8 HFT, diagonal cover­age 53°, size III filter bayonet, focusing from infinity to 1 m.

Shutter
Leaf shutter (1 to 1/500 s and B), X-syn­chronized. Aperture and shutter speed cross-coupled with exposure meter.

Viewfinder system
Heidosmat 80 mm f/2.8 viewfinder lens. Standard folding hood. Parallax compen­sation for focus distance. Interchangeable for 45° or 90° prism finder. Four inter­changeable viewing screens.

Flash synchronization
1/500 s to 1 s and B. Hot accessory shoe with contacts for TTL autoflash control in conjunction with dedicated flash units and dedicated adapter. X sync terminal for plug.

Autoflash control
TTL flash metering via additional silicon photo diode.

Film advance
By shutter-setting crank. Automatic stop at frame 1.

Double-exposure lock with override. Frame counter from 1 to 12, automati­cally resetting when film is changed.

Sockets
Cable-release socket. 1/4" tripod socket.

Dimensions (mm / h x w x d ) 147 x 109 x 108.

Weight Approx. 1275 g.

1

Page Not Found ~ Rolleiclub

404

Page not found.

Interesting Post [edited] found on  Freelists.org ,

About the Pin Layout on the Rolleiflex 6000 series as described by the late  Claus Prochnow – ‘Rollei Report 5’ (SLX/6000)

The pins are: (not that I know what the abreviations mean but someone may…..?)
1 – MCA – in/out
2 – ATA – in/out
3 – FB – out
4 – +G – out
5 – EZA – in
6 – SVA – in
7 – HOK – in/out
8 – MOA – in/out
9 – GND 13- +B – out
14- MTK – in/out
10- AUK – in/out
11- (no mention)
12- (no mention)

From the German text:
“Fernbedienungsbuchse von Rolleiflex 6008 integral, 6008E, 6008, 6006, 6002 und SLX”.
Pin 14 mit Pin 9 verbunden MEMO-Funktion.
Pin 10 mit Pin 9 verbunden Kamera löst aus.
Pin 6 mit Pin 9 verbunden Spiegelvorauslösung.
Pin 13 10 V kann als Versorgung für externe Elektronik verwendet werden.

Verwendet wird der RolleiStecker Nr. 61922.69.0.02 Beschaltung kann erfolgen durch Taster, Relais, Lichtschranke oder Open-Collect npn-Transistor (z.B. BC 547 oder ähnlich).
Um eine Beschädigung der Kamera durch unsachgemäße Beschaltung auszuschließen, sollte von einer Benutzung der verbleibenden Kontakte abgesehen werden!”

Which when put through my translation software (Systran) comes out with:
“Remote maintenance socket of Rolleiflex 6008 integral, 6008 E, 6008, 6006, 6002 and SLX”:
Pin 14 connected with pin 9 MEMO function.
Pin 10 connected with pin 9 fires shutter.
Pin 6 connected with pin 9 mirror pre-release.
Pin 13 – 10 V can be used as supply for external electronics.

The Rollei Plug NR 61922.69.0.02 is used. Wiring can take place via tracers, relays, light barrier or open Collect NPN transistor (e.g. BC 547 or similar).
In order to exclude a damage of the camera by inappropriate wiring, should be refrained from a use of the remaining contacts!”

This is basically the same as David’s version but elaborates on the use of the transistor to act as a barrier switch to protect the camera circuitry from the external electronics. I have found a manufacturer of plugs and sockets that match the Rollei type for both the 6000 series socket and also the type used on the Xact 6000 lens adapter and ‘Lens Control S’. In the US www.binder-usa.com and in Germany www.binder-connector.de .

<<__________________________________ > >

Does any know what the other pin numbers do?
As I read it:
pin 9 is ground,
pins 10 & 9 fire the shutter,
pins 14 & > 9 are the mirror lock-up (MLU),
and pins 13 & 9 provide + 10v power, probably for the Master Control on a 6008i or similar device on other models.
The other pins are unspecified in this diagram.
I read it as :
Pin 9 Ground.
Pins 10 & 9 fire the shutter.
Pins 6 & 9 mirror lockup.
Pins 14 & 9 refer to the note*
Pins 13 & 9 provide 10V DC for external accessories, e.g. MCU *note. This is an Open Collector output (transistor is a BC547).

That’s as much as I can work out – my none existent German skills don’t help with this, however if I shove the text :
– die pins konnen durch taster, relais oder lichtschranken angesteuert werden It Rollei audn npn Open-Collector Transistor moglich (BC 547) through a machine translator, it appears to show that this is synchronised with the shutter and is possibly for the flash sync.

Thanks to :

Slobodan , John , Neil and David who discussed this on freelists.org back in 2007

rolleiclub-tlr-059-rolleiflex-80years-set-in-cabinet
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rolleiclub-tlr-059-rolleiflex-fw
rolleiclub-tlr-059-rolleiflex-ft
rolleiclub-tlr-059-80-years-rolleiflex
rolleiclub-tlr-059-rolleiflex-80years-rolleigold-550x392

In 2009 the Rolleiflex Celebrated 80 Years in Production.

When the 6 x 6 twin-lens Rolleiflex was launched in 1929, it was an instant success – an ingenious camera principle that made the names of Rollei / Franke & Heidecke world-famous almost overnight and became a legend in its own right. 

For the professional photographers of its time, the twin-lens reflex by Franke & Heidecke was an absolute “must”. And wherever in the world there was an event that would determine the course of history, its images were captured with a Rolleiflex – because there was no magazine or photo book that appeared without Rolleiflex photos. 

It inspired many another camera development, while others became possible only because of it. In the decades that followed, innovative designs by the Franke & Heidecke Rollei company time and again gave new impetus to photography and pointed the way to the future. 

For the Occasion a beautifully crafted , gold-plated set of the Rolleiflex FT , FW and FX was made in limited quantities.

In the anniversary year 2009, Franke & Heidecke commemorated the sensational success of their twin-lens Rolleiflex. In memory of this pioneering feat of camera building, this legendary camera was made available as an exclusive set of three in a special edition of only 80 units.

Features: 

Trimmings 14-carat hard-gold plated

Leather camera covering in Bordeaux Nappa

Accessory set of CNC-milled lens hoods and filter adapters

Supplied in a precious walnut presentation case


Official Franke & Heidecke Specifications

Camera type
Twin-lens reflex camera with TTL metering and
TTL autoflash control.
Frame size
6 x 6 cm.
Film types
Film-speed setting on camera from ISO 25/15º
to ISO 6400/39º.
Exposure metering
Center-weighted average metering by two silicon
photo diodes. Five-LED display in viewfinder.
Metering range
EV 3 – 18/3.2 – 100000 asb/1 – 33000 cd/m2
at ISO 100/21º, with 80 mm f/2.8 lens.

Lenses

Rolleiflex 2.8 FX:
80mm Planar f/2.8 HFT, diagonal coverage 53º,
size III filter bayonet,
focusing from ∞ to 1 m.

Rolleiflex 4.0 FW:
50mm Schneider Super-Angulon f/4.0 HFT,
diagonal coverage 75º, size IV filter bayonet,
focusing from ∞ to 0.60 m.

Rolleiflex 4.0 FT:
135mm Schneider Super-Angulon f/4.0 HFT,
diagonal coverage 33º, size IV filter bayonet,
focusing from ∞ to 1.50 m.

Shutter
Leafshutter (1 to 1/500 s and B), X-synchronized.
Aperture and shutter speed cross-coupled with
exposure meter.
Viewfinder system
Heidosmat viewfinder lens 80mm f/2.8 or 50 mm f/4
and 135 mm f/4.
Standard folding hood.
Parallax compensation for focus distance.
Interchangeable for 45º or 90º prism finder.
Interchangeable viewing screens.
Standard focusing screen
Rolleiflex 2.8 FX: Bright focusing screen with central
microprism and split-image rangefinder.
Rolleiflex 4.0 FW and 4.0 FT: High-D-Screen.
Flash synchronization
1/500 s to 1 s and B. Hot accessory shoe with contacts
for TTL autoflash control in conjunction with dedicated
flash units and dedicated adapter SCA 356.
X sync terminal for plug.
Autoflash control
TTL flash metering via additional silicon photo diode.
Film advance
By shutter-setting crank. Automatic stop at frame 1.
Double-exposure lock with override. Frame counter
from 1 to 12, automatically resetting when film is
changed.
Sockets
Cable-release socket.
1/4″ tripod socket.

TLR-058

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Unique Rollei TLR Book

Buy the unique Rollei TLR book , compiled in the 1980's by a enthusiast group of Franke & Heidecke employees . Showing historic photos and data of all Rollei TLR cameras. Now available as printable PDF download. Click to see a sample page and to buy the book for only $9.95 , which fully supports the Rolleiclub web site.

Reviews

In this digital age we are used to online user reviews.
In the 1900's though we had to surrender ourselves to Sales brochures, clever Sales people and Word of mouth to decide what Camera to buy. 
I thought it to be nice addition to add a review option to each Rollei Gear Page.

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Please submit your review based on real life experiences under your own name. Genuine reviews will be published ,  irrelevant (advertising) messages will be deleted without notice. Email addresses will not be published and may be used by me to contact you for more details.

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rollei-product-range

The Rollei Range of Photographic Products was in the 1980’s possibly the largest product range of any Camera manufacturer in the World.

With a continuous production of High Quality Photographic tools since 1921 the Rollei Library is a huge one. At the time of re-building this web site, in 2014, I opened the Library with the section of the TLR Cameras. These after gave Rollei it’s ‘face’.

Since the new (2014) web site is built in a database structure it is much easier to add new sections as in the old 2006 design(sadly enough never completed).

My aim is to add at least two sections per month … bear with me please 😉

firstlastrolleiflex

Time Line showing the History of Rollei

1920 The precision engineering and optical workshop – Franke und Heidecke is founded in Brunswick by Paul and Reinhold Heidecke
1921 The first product is ready: the Heidosmat stereo camera.
1927 A new stereo camera is presented: the Rolleidoskop.
1928 The Rolleiflex, the first twin-lens reflex camera for roll film is launched.
1930 Opening of the new factory in Brunswick.
1933 Introduction of the Rolleicord, a simplified version of the Rolleiflex.
1945 Half of the factory buildings and machinery lay in ruins after WW II.
1950 Paul Franke dies at age 62. His son Horst is appointed CEO of the company.
1960 Reinhold Heidecke dies at age 79.
1962 The company operates under the new name “Rollei Werke Franke & Heidecke”.
1963 Launch of the Rollei 16, the first Rollei camera not to be designed for roll film.
1964 Dr. Peesel is appointed CEO. He manages to increase sales and shield the company against the growing influence of Japanese imports.
1966 Rolleiflex SL 66 (Rollei’s first single – lens roll film reflex camera). The Rollei 35 is presented at Photokina fair in Cologne. Over the next three decades, around 3 million of these cameras are sold. The Heidecke family sells its company share to the Franke family.
1967 Production of computer flash units begins. Peesel starts to expand: 2 new factories are planned, one in Uelzen (Germany), and a large one in Singapore.
1968 Rollei enters the slide projector market with its P 35. This projector was produced in almost 3 million pieces.
1970 Premiere of the first 35 mm single-lens reflex camera from Rollei – the Rolleiflex SL 35.
1973 The Rollei P 66A, the first automatic 6×6 slide projector, comes onto the market.
1974 World premiere of the Rolleiflex SLX, the first electronic camera system for the medium-format and the predecessor to the present Rolleiflex 6000 system.
1976 The dissolve projector P 3800 is launched, the original version of the Rolleivision twin MSC 300 projectors.
in the 70s Dr. Peesel is followed by CEOs Peter Peperzak, then by  Heinz Wehling.
1980 With its SL 2000F, Rollei launches the first 35mm single – lens reflex camera with interchangeable magazine, double viewfinder system and integrated motor drive.
1981 Rollei faces bankruptcy due to falling revenues and over production in Singapore. The CEO at the time is Hans Heinz Porst, a mayor German photo retailer.
1982 A British company, United Scientific Holding, buys the bankrupt Rollei company and resumes production under a new name “Rollei Fototechnik GmbH”.
1986 Introduction of the Rolleivision 66 AV, a dissolve projector for the 6 x 6 format. In the same year, RolleiMetric is launched, a digital 3D industrial measuring system, which is now market leader.
1987 The twin-lens system celebrates its come back with the Rolleiflex 2.8 GX with TTL exposure and flash metering. Rollei is bought by Schneider Kreuznach.
1988 Introduction of the Rolleiflex 6008 the top medium-format camera on the market.
1991 The entry into digital photography comes with the Rollei Digital Scan Pack. In the same year, Rollei brings out the Prego AF, the first modern Rollei compact.
1992 Rollei is bought by SAMSUNG company of S. Korea.
1993 The new generation of dissolve projectors, Rolleivision twin MSC 300, is introduced.
1994 The digital imaging system is extended with the high-speed Digital ChipPack back.
1995 Launch of the Rolleiflex 6008 integral, a most advanced professional camera for medium format.
1996 Further extension of the digital segment with the DSP-104 digital back.
1998 Rollei presents the bellows camera system X-Act at Photokina. With the Nano-compact cameras, Rollei introduces APS (Advanced Photo System) cameras into its product range. Rollei is bought by the company management.
2000 Rollei celebrates its 80th anniversary.
2001 Spring sees Rollei launch of five new compact cameras, autumn of AFM 35, a new series of dissolve projectors and two new digital cameras.
2002 The year of the launches! Rollei launches 6 new compact cameras, the Rollei 530 flex digital reflex camera, the Rolleiflex 6008 AF (first medium-format camera in 6 x 6 format with auto focus) and a new digital compact camera (Rollei d330 motion). Furthermore, Rollei presents at the Photokina the Rollei 35 RF (rangefinder camera) and the Rolleiflex 4.0 FW (new wide-angle camera).

After 2002 I do not have received reliable historic data , anyone who can provide this is strongly invited to share it in a similar concise description as above please.

We all know about the bankruptcy of F&H , the resurrection of the factory under a new name , the Hy6 cameras etc, But … I would love to have an accurate overview to be added. Please contact me using a PM in the forum to: ‘rolleiclubleader’

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All Rolleiflex TLR Serial Numbers

a Comparison

There are several sources for Rollei TLR camera serial numbers:

The original serial number lists were compiled by:

  • Claus Prochnow  ( Former Head engineer – Franke & Heidecke)
  • Ian Parker (Rolleiflex guru – Jersey) and
  • Arthur G. Evans  ( Rollei Collector Book sauthor)

Each of them  researched  the old Franke – Heidecke and Rollei archives in the most detailed manner.
All three of them based their findings on what they noted as the most reliable facts and yet came , in some instances , with different namings / conclusions. No matter how you look at it , those fine gentleman recorded a unique Rolleiflex TLR Serial number database.

Antique Cameras  produced another list worth looking at.  Antique Cameras is an interesting web site with lots of info about … you guessed it: Antique and Vintage Photo Cameras.
Their list with Rolleiflex Cameras includes the 2014 price indications.

Rollei @ Ebay

Find Your Rollei more efficiently NOW on eBay

A list with  more in depth research findings regarding very specific Rolleiflex / Rolleicord TLR camera details after 1945 can be found on the  web site maintained by Ferdi StutterheimRolleigraphy  !
In Ferdi’s web site you will find even more detailed information about  specific Rollei Camera models as what we copied below.

TABS:

Rolleigraphy 1 = Post 1945 Rolleiflex 2.8
RG 2 = Post 1945 Rolleiflex 3.5
RG 3 = Post 1945 Rolleiflex 4×4
RG 4 = Rolleicord
RG 5 = Rolleiflex T
RG 6 = Rolleiflex Tele / Wide

Start S/N End S/N Prochnow Parker Evans
1 199.999 Rolleiflex 3,8 model 1 Original Rolleiflex 6×6 3.8 Original Rolleiflex
1 199.999 Rolleiflex 3,8 model 2 Original Rolleiflex 6×6 3.8 Original Rolleiflex
1 199.999 Rolleiflex 4,5 model 1 Original Rolleiflex 6×6 4.5 Original Rolleiflex
1 199.999 Rolleiflex 4,5 model 2 Original Rolleiflex 6×6 4.5 Original Rolleiflex
125.000 * 145.100 * Rolleiflex 4×4 2,8 model 1 Baby 4×4 1931 Rolleiflex 2.8 Original Baby
125.000 * 145.000 * Rolleiflex 4×4 3,5 model 1 Baby 4×4 1931 Rolleiflex 3.5 Original Baby
127.000 523.000 Rolleiflex 4×4 3,5 model 2 Baby 4×4 1934 Rolleiflex Black Baby (type 1)
150.000 * 154.999 * Rolleiflex 4×4 2,8 model ? Baby 4×4 1933 Rolleiflex Black Baby (type 2)
150.000 * 154.999 * Rolleiflex 4×4 3,5 model ? Baby 4×4 1933 Rolleiflex Black Baby (type 1)
155.000 * 523.000 Rolleiflex 4×4 2,8 model 2 Baby 4×4 1934 Rolleiflex Black Baby (type 2)
155.000 * 524.999 * Rolleiflex 4×4 2,8 model 3 Baby 4×4 1937 Rolleiflex Black Baby (type 4)
155.000 * 523.000 Rolleiflex 4×4 3,5 model 3 Baby 4×4 1937 Rolleiflex Black Baby (type 3)
200.000 567.000 Rolleiflex Standard 3,5 Original Standard Rolleiflex Model 622 Old Standard Rolleiflex (type 3)
200.000 567.000 Rolleiflex Standard 3,8 Original Standard Rolleiflex Model 621 Old Standard Rolleiflex (type 1)
200.000 567.000 Rolleiflex Standard 4,5 Original Standard Rolleiflex Model 620 Old Standard Rolleiflex (type 2)
568.516 610.645 Rolleiflex Automat model 1 Automat 6×6 Model 1 Automatic Rolleiflex (type 1)
610.646 804.999 Rolleiflex Automat model 2 Automat 6×6 Model 1 Automatic Rolleiflex (type 2)
611.000 1.042.100 Rolleicord Ia model 3 Rolleicord Ia type 3 Rolleicord Ia (type 3)
611.000 1.042.100 Rolleicord Ia Polizei
613.000 859.000 Rolleicord II model 3 Rolleicord IIb Rolleicord II (type 3)
622.000 734.999 * Rolleiflex 4×4 2,8 model 4 Baby 4×4 1938 Rolleiflex Sports Rolleiflex
805.000 999.999 * Rolleiflex Automat model 3 Automat Rolleiflex Model 2 Automatic Rolleiflex (type 3)
806.000 927.999 Rolleiflex Standard neu New Standard Rolleiflex New Standard Rolleiflex
850.000 850.999 * Rolleiflex 4×4 2,8 Warmodel Baby 4×4 1938 Rolleiflex Sports Rolleiflex
859.000 1.095.425 Rolleicord II model 4 Rolleicord IIc Rolleicord II (type 4)
859.000 1.135.999 Rolleicord II Phillips model
980.000 1.095.425 Rolleicord II model 5 Rolleicord IIc Rolleicord II (type 5)
1.000.000 * 1.049.999 * Rolleiflex Automat model 3 Automat Rolleiflex Model 2 Automatic Rolleiflex (type 4)
1.050.000 * 1.099.999 Rolleiflex Automat model 3 Automat Rolleiflex Model 3 Automatic Rolleiflex (type 4)
1.100.000 1.168.999 Rolleiflex 3,5 Automat Rolleiflex Model X Rolleiflex X (type 1/2)
1.101.000 1.164.999 Rolleiflex 2,8 A Rolleiflex 2.8A Type 1 Rolleiflex 2.8A (type 1)
1.102.000 1.135.999 Rolleicord II model 6 Rolleicord IId Rolleicord II (type 5)
1.137.000 1.199.999 Rolleicord III Rolleicord III Rolleicord III (type 1/2)
1.200.000 1.200.999 * Rolleiflex 3,5 A Automat Rolleiflex Model 4 Rolleiflex MX (type 1)
1.201.000 1.204.999 Rolleiflex 2,8 A Rolleiflex 2.8A Type 2 Rolleiflex 2.8A (type 2)
1.205.000 * 1.219.999 * Rolleiflex 3,5 A Automat Rolleiflex Model 4 Rolleiflex MX (type 1)
1.220.000 1.220.999 Rolleiflex 2,8 B Rolleiflex 2.8B Rolleiflex 2.8B (type 1)
1.221.000 * 1.298.999 Rolleiflex 3,5 A Automat Rolleiflex Model 4 Rolleiflex MX (type 1)
1.260.000 1.260.249 Rolleiflex 2,8 B Rolleiflex 2.8B Rolleiflex 2.8B (type 2)
1.260.250 1.261.999 * Rolleiflex 2,8 C Rolleiflex 2.8C Rolleiflex 2.8C (type 1)
1.280.000 * 1.285.999 Rolleiflex 2,8 C Rolleiflex 2.8C Rolleiflex 2.8C (type 1)
1.292.000 1.292.999 Rolleiflex 2,8 C Rolleiflex 2.8C Rolleiflex 2.8C (type 1)
1.300.000 1.344.050 Rolleicord III Rolleicord III Rolleicord III (type 2)
1.344.051 1.390.999 Rolleicord IV Rolleicord IV Rolleicord IV
1.400.000 1.475.405 Rolleiflex 2,8 C Rolleiflex 2.8C Rolleiflex 2.8C (type 2)
1.401.000 1.427.999 Rolleiflex 3,5 A Automat Rolleiflex Model 4 Rolleiflex MX (type 2)
1.428.000 1.499.999 Rolleiflex 3,5 B Rolleiflex 3.5 MX-EVS 3.5 Rolleiflex MX-EVS (type 1)
1.500.000 1.583.999 Rolleicord V Rolleicord V Rolleicord V
1.584.000 1.599.999 Rolleicord Va model 1 Rolleicord Va Type 1 Rolleicord Va (type 1)
1.600.000 1.620.100 Rolleiflex 2,8 D Rolleiflex 2.8D Rolleiflex 2.8D
1.621.000 1.665.999 Rolleiflex 2,8 E Rolleiflex 2.8E Rolleiflex 2.8E
1.700.000 1.737.999 Rolleiflex 3,5 B Rolleiflex 3.5 MX-EVS 3.5 Rolleiflex MX-EVS (type 2)
1.740.000 1.787.999 Rolleiflex 3,5 C Rolleiflex 3.5 E Rolleiflex 3.5 E (type 1)
1.850.000 1.868.999 Rolleiflex 3,5 C Rolleiflex 3.5 E Rolleiflex 3.5 E (type 2)
1.870.000 1.871.999 Rolleiflex 3,5 E2 model 1 Rolleiflex 3.5 E2 Rolleiflex 3.5 E2 (type 1)
1.900.000 1.906.999 Rolleicord Va model 1 Rolleicord Va Type 2 Rolleicord Va (type 1)
1.905.000 1.943.999 Rolleicord Va model 2 Rolleicord Va Type 2 Rolleicord Va (type 2)
2.000.001 2.064.999 Rolleiflex 4×4 grau Baby 4×4 1957 Grey Rolleiflex Grey Baby
2.064.000 2.069.120 Rolleiflex 4×4 schwarz Baby 4×4 1963 Black Rolleiflex Post-war Black Baby
2.100.000 2.155.999 Rolleiflex T model 1 Rolleiflex T 1 Rolleiflex T (type 1)
2.156.000 2.156.249 Rolleiflex T speciel edition 24 ? ?
2.157.000 2.199.999 Rolleiflex T model 2 Rolleiflex T 1 Rolleiflex T (type 1)
2.200.000 2.219.999 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 1 Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 1 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 1)
2.220.000 * 2.229.999 * Rolleiflex T model 3 Rolleiflex T 2 Rolleiflex T (type 2)
2.230.000 2.241.499 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 2 Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 2 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 2)
2.242.000 * 2.249.999 Rolleiflex T model 3 Rolleiflex T 2 Rolleiflex T (type 3)
2.250.000 2.299.999 * Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3 Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 3 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 3)
2.300.000 2.306.871 Tele-Rolleiflex model 1 Tele Rolleiflex Tele Rolleiflex (type 1)
2.306.872 2.308.498 Tele-Rolleiflex model 2 Tele Rolleiflex Tele Rolleiflex (type 2)
2.310.000 2.313.949 Rolleiflex T model 3 Rolleiflex T 2 Rolleiflex T (type 3)
2.314.000 2.320.449 Rolleiflex T model 3 Rolleiflex T 3 Rolleiflex T (type 3)
2.350.000 2.357.999 Rolleiflex 2,8 E2 Rolleiflex 2.8E 2 Rolleiflex 2.8 E2
2.360.000 2.362.024 Rolleiflex 2,8 E3 Rolleiflex 2.8E 3 Rolleiflex 2.8 E3
2.380.000 2.385.034 Rolleiflex 3,5 E3 Rolleiflex 3.5 E3 Rolleiflex 3.5 E3
2.400.000 2.479.999 Rolleiflex 2,8 F Rolleiflex 2.8F Rolleiflex 2.8F (type 1/2)
2.480.000 2.481.999 Rolleiflex 3,5 E2 model 2 Rolleiflex 3.5 E2 Rolleiflex 3.5 E2 (type 2)
2.490.000 2.493.501 Weitwinkel-Rolleiflex model 1 Wide-Angle Rolleiflex Wide-Angle Rollei
2.493.502 2.493.905 Weitwinkel-Rolleiflex model 2 Wide-Angle Rolleiflex Wide-Angle Rollei
2.500.000 2.524.999 Rolleimagic Rollei Magic I Rollei-magic I
2.535.000 2.547.600 Rolleimagic II Rollei Magic II Rollei-magic II
2.600.000 2.645.999 Rolleicord Vb model 1 Rolleicord Vb Type 1 Rolleicord Vb (type 1)
2.647.000 2.677.534 Rolleicord Vb model 2 Rolleicord Vb Type 2 Rolleicord Vb (type 2)
2.800.000 * 2.844.999 * Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3 Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 4 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 3/4)
2.845.000 * 2.857.149 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3 Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 5 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 4)
2.950.000 2.984.999 Rolleiflex 2,8 F Rolleiflex 2.8F 4 Rolleiflex 2.8F (type 2)
2.985.001 2.985.500 Rolleiflex 2,8 F Edition 1984 Platin Rolleiflex 2.8F Platin Rolleiflex 2.8F Platin Edition
2.985.501 Rolleiflex 2,8 GX Rolleiflex 2.8 GX Rolleiflex 2.8 GX
3.555.000 * 3.559.999 * Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3 Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 5 Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 5
7.570.001 7.571.249 * Rolleiflex 2,8 F Aurum Rolleiflex 2.8F Aurum Rolleiflex 2.8F Aurum
8.300.001 8.301.500 Rolleiflex 2,8 F Aurum Rolleiflex 2.8F Aurum Rolleiflex 2.8F Aurum

 

List valid per 2014

Camera Amount $$ Comments
Original Rolleiflex $ 175-325* About 35,000 produced from 1929-32. 75mm Tessar 4.5 or 3.8 Lens. *Prices can be much higher for early variations. Compur shutter 1/300 to 1, B + T. 28.5mm Taking lens filter. Heidoscop Anastigmat 75mm F3.1 viewing lens.
Standard Rolleiflex $ 150-275 About 95,000 produced from 1932-38. 75mm Tessar 4.5, 3.8 or 3.5 lens. Compur Rapid shutter 1/500 to 1, B + T ( early versions Compur to 1/300 ). 28.5mm Taking lens filter. Heidoscop Anastigmat 75mm F3.1 viewing lens.
Standard Rolleiflex, New Model $ 175-275 Serial # 805000-927999 from 1939-41. 75mm Tessar 3.5 lens. Bay I. Compur Rapid shutter 1/500 to 1, B + T. Heidoscop Anastigmat 75mm F3.1 viewing lens.
Rolleiflex Automat $ 125-275 Serial # 568516-805000 from 1937-39. 75mm Tessar 3.5 lens. Compur Rapid shutter 1/500 to 1, B + T. Heidoscop Anastigmat 75mm F2.8 viewing lens. Bay I. 
Rolleiflex Automat Type 2 $ 175-275 Serial # 805000-1099999 from 1939-45. 75mm Tessar 3.5, Opton 75/3.5 or Xenar 75/3.5 lens. Bay I. Heidoscop Anastigmat 75mm F2.8 viewing lens.
Rolleiflex Automat Type 3 (“X”) $ 200-350 Serial # 1100000-1168000 from 1949-51. 75mm Tessar 3.5, Opton 75/3.5 or Xenar 75/3.5 lens. Bay I. Compur Rapid shutter 1/500 to 1, B + T with X sync.
Rolleiflex Automat Type 4 (“MX”) $ 250-400 Serial # 1200001-1474999 from 1951-54. 75mm Tessar 3.5, Opton 75/3.5 or Xenar 75/3.5 lens. After Serial # 128xxxx, internal baffles added. Synchro Compur shutter 1/500 to 1, B + T and MX sync.
Rolleiflex Automat Type 5 (“MX-EVS”) $ 275-425 Serial # 1428001-1739999 from 1954-56. 75mm Tessar 3.5, Opton 75/3.5 or Xenar 75/3.5 lens. Internal baffles added, larger focus knob, EVS system. Synchro Compur shutter 1/500 to 1, B + T and MX sync with EVS system.
Rolleiflex 2.8A Type 1 $ 450-750 Serial # 1100001-1164999 from 1949/50. About 7870 produced. 80mm Tessar 2.8 lens. Heidoscop-Anastigmat 80mm F2.8 viewing lens. Interchangeable finder loupe. Parallax control. Compur Rapid shutter to 1/400. Bay II unique to this model.
Rolleiflex 2.8A Type 2 $ 650-925 Serial # 1201000-1204999 from 1951. About 2000 produced. 80mm Tessar 2.8 lens. Heidoscop-Anastigmat 80mm F2.8 viewing lens. Interchangeable finder loupe. Parallax control. Compur Rapid MX shutter to 1/500. Bay II unique to this model.
Rolleiflex 2.8B Type 1 $1,200-1,700 Serial # 1220000-1220999 from 1952-53. 80mm Biometer 2.8 lens. Bay III. Heidoscop-Anastigmat 80mm F2.8 viewing lens. Very few made, about 1000. Interchangeable finder loupe. Parallax control. Compur Rapid MX.
Rolleiflex 2.8B Type 2 $1,900-2,900 Serial # 1241000-1260000 from 1952-53. 80mm Biometer 2.8 lens. Bay III. Heidoscop-Anastigmat 80mm F2.8 viewing lens. Only 250 made. Interchangeable finder loupe. Parallax control. Synchro Compur. 3 point accessory mask on hood.
Rolleiflex 2.8C Type 1 $ 525-850 Serial # 1260250-1299999 from 1953-54. About 30150 made of type 1 & 2 combined. 80mm Xenotar F2.8 lens. Internal baffles added, larger focus knob, adjustable focusing magnifier. Heidosmat 80mm F2.8 viewing lens. Parallax control. Bay III. Synchro Compur. 3 point accessory mask on hood.
Rolleiflex 2.8C Type 2 $ 550-875 Serial # 1400000-1475405 from 1954-55. Mostly fitted with 80mm Planar F2.8 lens, some early with Xenotar lens. Internal baffles added, larger focus knob, adjustable focusing magnifier. Heidosmat 80mm F2.8 viewing lens. Parallax control. Bay III. Synchro-Compur. 3 point accessory mask on hood.
Rolleiflex 2.8D $ 650-950 Serial # 1600000-1620100 from 1955-56. About 20,100 made. 80mm Xenotar 2.8 or Planar 80/2.8 lens. Very similiar to 2.8C, now has EVS System, double exposure capability. Heidosmat 80mm F2.8 viewing lens. Synchro-Compur shutter 1/500 to 1, B. Bay III.
Rolleiflex 2.8E $ 650-850 Serial # 1621000-1665999 from 1956-59. About 44000 made. 80mm Xenotar 2.8 or Planar 80/2.8 lens. Built-in, uncoupled meter, Automatic DOF Indicator. Heidosmat 80mm F2.8 viewing lens. Synchro-Compur shutter 1/500 to 1, B. Bay III.
Rolleiflex 2.8E E2 $ 675-950 Serial # 2350000-2356999 from 1959-60. About 7000 made. 80mm Xenotar 2.8, Planar 80/2.8 or Opton 80/2,8 lens. Optional uncoupled meter, detachable hood, improved focus screen. Synchro-Compur shutter 1/500 to 1, B. Bay III.
Rolleiflex 2.8E E3 $ 750-975 Serial # 2360000-2362024 from 1962-65. About 2025 made. 80mm Xenotar 2.8, Planar 80/2.8 or Opton 80/2,8 lens. Optional uncoupled meter. EVS system. detachable hood, improved focus screen. Bay III.
Rolleiflex 3.5E Type 1 $ 450-675 Serial # 1740000-1787999 from 1956-59. About 26000 made. 75mm Planar F3.5 lens. Built-in meter. However, cameras with Xenotar had no meter ( unless installed later ). Bay II. Non-removable finder hood. 
Rolleiflex 3.5E Type 2 $ 475-750 Serial # 1850000-1869999 from 1957-59. About 17000 made.75mm Xenotar F3.5. Meter optional. Bay II. Non-removable finder hood.
Rolleiflex 3.5E E2 Type 1 $ 575-825 Serial # 1870000-1872999 from 1959-60. Very few made, about 2010. Serial # will be preceeded with “E2” marking. Meter could be installed. 75mm Xenotar 3.5 or Planar 75/3.5 lens. Detachable hood. Bay II.
Rolleiflex 3.5E E2 Type 2 $ 625-975 Serial # 2480000-2481999 from 1961-62. Very Few Made, about 2000. Meter could be installed. 75mm Xenotar 3.5, Planar 75/3.5 or Opton 75/3.5 lens. Detachable hood. Bay II.
Rolleiflex 3.5E E3 $ 650-1,000 Serial # 2380000-2385034 from 1961-65. About 5035 made. 75mm Xenotar 3.5, Planar 75/3.5 or Opton 75/3.5 lens. Meter could be installed. EVS system. Detachable hood. Bay II. Distance between lenses expanded from 42mm to 45mm. The Xenotar lenses were changed to 6 elements. The Planar was changed to 6 elements starting with lens serial # 2753002.
Rolleiflex T Type 1 $ 300-550 Serial # 2100000-2199999 from 1958-66. About 99000? made. Grey and black versions. 75mm Tessar 3.5 lens or Opton 75/3.5 lens. Meter optional. Synchro-Compur MXV shutter 1/500 to 1, B. Rollei expert Alex Pearlman remarks that the Tessar on the Rolleiflex T utilizes Lanthanum glass for improved resolution and color correction. Detachable hood, improved focus screen. Heidosmat 75mm F2.8 viewing lens. Bay I.
Rolleiflex T Type 2 $ 350-600 Serial # 2220000-2228999 from 1966-68. Mostly About 9000 made. Shutter has X synchronization only. 75mm Tessar 3.5 lens or Opton 75/3.5 lens. Meter optional. Prices vary widely depending on condition. Heidosmat 75mm F2.8 viewing lens. Bay I.
Rolleiflex T Type 3 $ 400-650 From 1971-76. Serial # 2242000-on. About 18,000 made. Mostly Black. Rollei-Werke nameplate on camera now. 75mm Tessar 3.5 lens or Opton 75/3.5 lens. Meter optional. Synchro-Compur VX shutter 1/500 to 1, B. Prices vary widely depending on condition. Add $ 150 for “White Face” version ( “Type 4” T ). Heidosmat 75mm F2.8 viewing lens. Bay I.
Rolleiflex 3.5F $ 650-850 Serial # 2200000-2229999 from 1958-60. About 20000 made. 75mm Xenotar 3.5 or Planar 75/3.5 lens. Heidosmat 75mm F2.8 viewing lens. Synchro-Compur MXV shutter 1/500 to 1, B. Optional coupled meter, has detachable hood, improved focus screen, eye level viewing, distance scale in meters or feet. Bay II.
Rolleiflex 3.5F Type 2 $ 800-975 Serial # 2230000-2241500 from 1960. About 11500 made. 75mm Xenotar 3.5 or Planar 75/3.5 lens. Heidosmat 75mm F2.8 viewing lens. Synchro-Compur shutter MXV 1/500 to 1, B. Optional coupled meter, has detachable hood, improved focus screen, eye level viewing. Provision for 220 Film. Bay II. Distance scale in meters or feet. Accepts plate glass back.
Rolleiflex 3.5F Type 3 $ 850-1,250 Serial # 2250000-2810000 from 1960-69. 75mm Xenotar 3.5 or Planar 75/3.5 lens. Heidosmat 75mm F2.8 viewing lens. Synchro-Compur shutter MXV 1/500 to 1, B. Optional coupled meter, has detachable hood, improved focus screen, eye level viewing. Provision for 220 Film. Bay II. Accepts plate glass back. Distance scale in meters AND feet after Serial # 2298816. Serial #’s after 2299547 accept both 120 and 220 film. After Lens Serial # 2753002, the Planar lens had 6 elements. After Serial # 2299547, the Xenotar lens had 6 elements.
Rolleiflex 3.5F Type 4 $ 900-1,350 Serial # 2810000-on from 1969-71. 75mm Xenotar 3.5 or Planar 75/3.5 lens. Heidosmat 75mm F2.8 viewing lens. Synchro-Compur MXV shutter 1/500 to 1, B. Optional coupled meter, has detachable hood, improved focus screen, eye level viewing. 12/24 Frame Counter. Bay II. Does not accept plate glass back. Distance scale in meters AND feet. 6 element lenses.
Rolleiflex 3.5F Type 5 $ 1,000-1,500 Serial # 2840000-on. From 1971-on. 75mm Xenotar 3.5 or Planar 75/3.5 lens. Heidosmat 75mm F2.8 viewing lens. Synchro-Compur MXV shutter 1/500 to 1, B. Optional coupled meter, has detachable hood, improved focus screen, eye level viewing. 12/24 Frame Counter. Bay II. “White Face” versions get big premium,  distance scale in meters AND feet. 6 element lenses.
Rolleiflex 2.8F Type 1 $ 1,000 -1,750 Serial # 2400000-2442133 from 1960-66. 80mm Planar F2.8. Coupled Meter, Detachable hood, improved focus screen. Synchro-Compur shutter 1/500 to 1, B. Bay III. 12 frame counter, 12/24 counter optional as an add on. 1965-66 models accepted plate glass back.
Rolleiflex 2.8F Type 2 $ 1,400-2,100* Serial # 2442132-2984999 from 1965-81. Early, mostly 80mm Planar F2.8 lens. Factory installed 12/24 Frame counter. 1966 version still accepted plate glass back, post 1967 does not. Post 1973 models were mostly fitted with 80mm Xenotar F2.8 lens. Coupled Meter was optional, but most were installed. Synchro-Compur shutter 1/500 to 1, B. Bay III. Factory 12/24 Frame counter. “White Face” shutter versions and serial #’s starting 295**** and above can fetch up to $ 2,500*
Rolleiflex 2.8F Aurum $ 2,700-3,500 1983/4. First “Special Edition” Rolleiflex 2.8, Gold plating, 80mm Xenotar F2.8 lens. About 1500 made.
Rolleiflex 2.8F Platin $ 3,500-4,000 1984 issuance of the 2.8F Platin Edition. Serial 298xxxx. 500 made. Newly manufactured Rollei ( licensed by Zeiss ) 80mm Planar lens.
Rolleiflex 2.8GX Type I $ 1,850-2,400 Serial # starts at 2985501. 1987-1994. 80mm Planar HFT F2.8 lens. LED Meter readout. Bay III. 120 film only.
Rolleiflex 2.8GX ’89-91 Edition no data Serial # starts at 4 and 5 mill. 1989-1991. 1500 made. 80mm Planar HFT F2.8 lens. LED Meter readout. Bay III. Alligator leather, Gold plated nameplate.
Rolleiflex 2.8GX Expression 94 $ 1,900-2,500 1994 issuance of the 2.8GX “Expression 94” Edition. Serial 901xxxx. 500 made. 80mm Planar HFT F2.8 lens. LED Meter readout. Bay III.
Rolleiflex 2.8GX Helmut Newton $ 2,800-3,200 1994 issuance of the 2.8GX “Helmut Newton” Limited Edition. Grey. Serial 603xxxx. 80mm Planar HFT F2.8 lens. LED Meter readout. Bay III.
Rolleiflex 2.8GX Jersery Edition $ 2,800-3,500
Rolleiflex 2.8GX Type II “Expression” $ 1,900-2,400 The GX “Expression” is the 1995 update of the GX Type I, with new focus knob and Copal shutter. 1000 made. 80mm Planar HFT F2.8 lens. LED Meter readout. Bay III.
Rolleiflex 2.8GX Type II “75 Years” $ 2,500-3,200 1995. Brown Lizard print covering and Gold plated nameplate. 80mm Planar HFT F2.8 lens. LED Meter readout. Bay III.
Rolleiflex 2.8GX Royal $ 3,000-3,500 1996. 2.8GX “Royal” Limited Edition. Serial 200xx. Royal Blue finish.
Rolleiflex 2.8GX Type II “80 Years” 2000 issuance.
Tele-Rolleiflex Type 1 $ 1,000-1,750 Serial # 2300000-2306419. From 1959-65. About 6420 made. Sonnar 135mm F4.0 lens. 120 Film only, Accepts plate glass back. Bay III.
Tele-Rolleiflex “Transition” Type $ 1,700-2,300 Serial # 2306420-2306871. From 1965-66. About 452 made. Sonnar 135mm F4.0 lens. 120 and 220 Film. Accepts plate glass back. Bay III.
Tele-Rolleiflex Type 2 $ 1,800-2,400 Serial # 2306872-2308489. From 1966-75 About 1618 made. Sonnar 135mm F4.0 lens. 120 and 220 Film. Does not accepts plate glass back. Bay III. The Sportsfinder opening on the W/L finder differs from the Type 1 Tele-Rollei in that it has some empty “space” around the frame to be able to see beyond the lenses taking view. “White Face” versions.
Wide-Rolleiflex Type 1 $ 2,300-3,400 Serial # 2490000-2493501. About 3502 made. From 1961-65 Distagon 55mm F4.0 lens. 120 film only. Bay IV.
Wide-Rolleiflex Type 2 $ ? Serial # 2493502-2493905. About 404 made. From 1965-67 Distagon 55mm F4.0 lens. 120 and 220 film. Bay IV.
CURRENT MODELS:
Rolleiflex 2.8FW $ 4,100-4,500 Latest version, wide angle lens, Rolleiflex available. 50mm Super Angulon 4.0 HFT lens. LED Meter readout. Bay III. 120 film only. It sells for $ 5,555 new, as of 11/07.
Rolleiflex 2.8FT $ 3,400-4,200 Latest version, tele angle lens, Rolleiflex available. 135mm Tele Xenar 4.0 HFT lens. LED Meter readout. Bay III. 120 film only. It sells for $ 5,850 new, as of 11/07. Sold example at $ 3500 on Dec 22, ’07 on ebay.
Rolleiflex 2.8FX $ 2,800-3,400 Latest version, normal lens, Rolleiflex available. 80mm Planar 2.8 HFT lens. LED Meter readout. Bay III. 120 film only. It sell for $ 4,444 new, as of 11/07.

Rolleiflex 2.8

Start S/N End S/N Produced Name acc. to Prochnow Taking Lens Name acc. to Pa Name acc. to Ev
1.101.000 1.116.999 1949-1951 Rolleiflex 2,8 ACompur-Rapid 1/400sX-synchr. Tessar Jena
Opton Tessar
Rolleiflex 2.8A Type 1 Rolleiflex 2.8A (type 1)
1.117.000 1.164.999 1949-1951 Rolleiflex 2,8 ACompur-Rapid 1/400sX-synchr.Rolleikin IIsingle format back Tessar Jena
Opton Tessar
Rolleiflex 2.8A Type 1 Rolleiflex 2.8A (type 1)
1.201.000 1.204.999 1951 Rolleiflex 2,8 ACompur-Rapid 1/500sMX-synchr.Rolleikin II2-format back Opton Tessar Rolleiflex 2.8A Type 2 Rolleiflex 2.8A (type 2)
1.220.000 1.220.999 1952-1953 Rolleiflex 2,8 BCompur-Rapid 1/500sMX-synchr. Biometar Jena Rolleiflex 2.8B Rolleiflex 2.8B (type 1)
1.260.000 1.260.249 1953-1953 Rolleiflex 2,8 BCompur-Rapid 1/500sMX-synchr. Biometar Jena Rolleiflex 2.8B Rolleiflex 2.8B (type 2)
1.260.250 1.285.999 1954-1955 Rolleiflex 2,8 CSynchro-CompurMXV-synchr. Planar Rolleiflex 2.8C Rolleiflex 2.8C (type 1)
1.292.000 1.292.999 1952-1955 Rolleiflex 2,8 CSynchro-CompurMXV-synchr. Xenotar Rolleiflex 2.8C Rolleiflex 2.8C (type 1)
1.400.000 1.475.405 1952-1955 Rolleiflex 2,8 CSynchro-CompurMXV-synchr. Xenotar Rolleiflex 2.8C Rolleiflex 2.8C (type 2)
1.600.000 1.620.100 1955-1956 Rolleiflex 2,8 D PlanarXenotar Rolleiflex 2.8D Rolleiflex 2.8D
1.621.000 1.665.999 1956-1959 Rolleiflex 2,8 E PlanarXenotar Rolleiflex 2.8E Rolleiflex 2.8E
2.400.000 2.442.133 1960-1966 Rolleiflex 2,8 Fwith Flat Glass option PlanarXenotar2 Rolleiflex 2.8F Rolleiflex 2.8F (type 1/2)
2.442.134 2.454.999 1966-1967 Rolleiflex 2,8 Fwith Flat Glass option12/24 exp. Planar Rolleiflex 2.8F Rolleiflex 2.8F (type 1/2)
2.455.000 2.475.999 1967-1971 Rolleiflex 2,8 F12/24 exp. Planar Rolleiflex 2.8F Rolleiflex 2.8F (type 1/2)
2.476.000 2.479.999 1971-1973 Rolleiflex 2,8 F12/24 exp.Flat film pressure plate, revised film-gateMid 1971: “White-face”3 Planar Rolleiflex 2.8F Rolleiflex 2.8F (type 1/2)
2.950.000 2.984.999 1973-1981 Rolleiflex 2,8 F12/24 exp.Flat film pressure plate, revised film-gate“White-face”3 XenotarPlanar Rolleiflex 2.8F Rolleiflex 2.8F (type 2)
8.300.001 8.301.500 1983 Rolleiflex 2,8 F Aurum Xenotar Rolleiflex 2.8F Aurum Rolleiflex 2.8F Aurum
2.985.001 2.985.500 1984-1985 Rolleiflex 2,8 F Edition 1984
Platin
001/500 – 500/500
Planar4

HFT

Rolleiflex 2.8F Platin Rolleiflex 2.8F Platin Edition
2.350.000 2.357.999 1959-1960 Rolleiflex 2,8 E2(User option: 2-range exposure meter) PlanarXenotar Rolleiflex 2.8E 2 Rolleiflex 2.8 E2
2.360.000 2.362.024 1962-1965 Rolleiflex 2,8 E3with Flat Glass option(User option: 2-range exposure meter) PlanarXenotar Rolleiflex 2.8E 3 Rolleiflex 2.8 E3
2.985.501 coded nr.5 1987-1994 Rolleiflex 2,8 GX model 1Synchro-CompurX-synchr. Planar Rollei

HFT

Rolleiflex 2.8 GX Rolleiflex 2.8 GX

Notes

[1]
Features are only described to distinguish between cameras from a single production
run or in case of special interest. Not all features are listed.
Back
[2]
Rolleiflex 2.8 F cameras with Xenotars were marketed at least in some countries
in the 1960s. A U.K. sales leaflet with the Xenotar ordering code exists.
Back
[3]
Mid 1971 a shiny silver name plate with small print around the taking lens was
introduced. This was just a purely cosmetic change. Later it became the sought after
‘White-face’. Camera #2478095 is a ‘White-face’ but still has the film
pressure plate with 4 long dents to cover the rails for 120 size film and 35 mm
film when the Rolleikin is mounted. It has the camera-side without the 12/24 exposures switch.
The pressure plate has two positions: 120 size and
35 mm. There is no provision for the Flat glass. The arrivals of the ‘White-face’
and the new new pressure plate did not coincide. The number of the first ‘White-face’
is unknown, the change happened in mid series. Cameras with the old style pressure plate were
still made after #2476000. #2950197 has a White-face, a Planar lens and the old style grooved
pressure plate. #2954489 has a White-face, 12/24 exp, a Xenotar and the grooved pressure plate.
Back
[4]
This batch of Planars was a special order with Carl Zeiss Oberkochen. Planars for the Rolleiflex
had not been ordered for more than a decade. The Planars were multi-coated – probably T* – but
labelled HFT for reasons of uniformity. HFT is the registerd Rollei trade-mark for multi-coating.
Back
[5]
Unfortunately there is no practical way of listing coded serial numbers. This is
where the list ends. Back

Postwar Rolleiflex 3.5

Start S/N End S/N Produced Name acc. to Prochnow Filter Taking Lens Name acc. to Parker Name acc. to Evans
1.100.000 1.168.999 1949-1951 Rolleiflex 3,5 Bay I Tessar JenaOpton TessarXenar Automat Rolleiflex Model X Rolleiflex X (type 1/2)
1.200.000 1.298.999 1951-1954 Rolleiflex 3,5 A Bay I Tessar Jena Automat Rolleiflex Model 4 Rolleiflex MX (type 1)
1.401.000 1.427.999 1951-1954 Rolleiflex 3,5 A Bay I Opton TessarXenar Automat Rolleiflex Model 4 Rolleiflex MX (type 2)
1.428.000 1.499.999 1954-1956 Rolleiflex 3,5 B Bay I Tessar Jena Rolleiflex 3.5 MX-EVS 3.5 Rolleiflex MX-EVS (type 1)
1.700.000 1.737.999 1954-1956 Rolleiflex 3,5 B Bay I Opton TesserXenar Rolleiflex 3.5 MX-EVS 3.5 Rolleiflex MX-EVS (type 2)
1.740.000 1.787.999 1956-1959 Rolleiflex 3,5 Cwith 2-range exposure meter Bay II42 mm Planar Rolleiflex 3.5 E Rolleiflex 3.5 E (type 1)
1.850.000 1.868.999 1957-1959 Rolleiflex 3,5 CFactory option: 2-range exposure meter Bay II42 mm Xenotar3Planar Rolleiflex 3.5 E Rolleiflex 3.5 E (type 2)
2.200.000 2.204.999 1958-1960 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 1with coupled exposure meterwith Differential Synchro-Compur shutterstill with plain serial number Bay II45 mm Planar Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 1 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 1)
2.205.000 2.219.999 1958-1960 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 1with coupled exposure meterwith Differential Synchro-Compur shutterwith ‘3,5 F’ preceding serial number (on top name shield) Bay II45 mm Xenotar3Planar Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 1 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 1)
2.230.000 2.241.499 1960 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 2with coupled exposure meterwith Differential Synchro-Compur shutterwith ‘3,5 F’ preceding serial number (on top name shield) Bay II45 mm PlanarXenotar Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 2 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 2)
2.250.000 2.289.999 1960-1965 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3with coupled exposure meterwith Synchro-Compur shutter and cone-wheel differentialwith ‘3,5 F’ preceding serial number (on top name shield)with or without Flat Glass Bay II45 mm Planar (6 elements) Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 3 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 3)
2.290.000 2.298.999 1960-1965 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3with coupled exposure meterwith ‘3,5 F’ preceding serial number (on top name shield)Both m and ft scalesFlat Glass Bay II45 mm Planar (6 elements) Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 3 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 3)
2.299.000 2.299.546 1960-1965 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3with coupled exposure meterwith ‘3,5 F’ preceding serial number (on top name shield)Both m and ft scalesFlat Glass Bay II45 mm Planar (6 elements)Xenotar (6 elements) Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 3 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 3/4)
2.299.547 2.299.999 1965-1966 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3with coupled exposure meterwith ‘3,5 F’ preceding serial number (on top name shield)Both m and ft scalesFlat GlassFilm transport for 12/24 exp. Switch may not be present Bay II45 mm Planar (6 elements)Xenotar (6 elements) Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 3 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 3/4)
2.800.000 2.814.999 1965-1966 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3with coupled exposure meterwith ‘3,5 F’ preceding serial number (on top name shield)Both m and ft scalesFlat GlassFilm transport for 12/24 exp. Switch may not be present Bay II45 mm Xenotar3 (6 elements)Planar (6 elements) Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 4 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 3/4)
2.815.000 2.839.999 1966-1971 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3with coupled exposure meterwith ‘3,5 F’ preceding serial number (on top name shield)Both m and ft scalesFilm transport for 12/24 exp. Switch may not be present Bay II45 mm Xenotar3 (6 elements)Planar (6 elements) Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 4 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 3/4)
2.840.000 2.844.999 1971 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3with coupled exposure meterBoth m and ft scales“White-face”5with ‘3,5 F’ preceding serial number below taking lensFilm transport for 12/24 exp. Switch may not be present Bay II45 mm Xenotar3 (6 elements)Planar (6 elements) Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 5 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 4)
2.845.000 2.857.149 1971-1976 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3with coupled exposure meterBoth m and ft scales“White-face”5with ‘3,5 F’ preceding serial number below taking lensFilm transport for 12/24 exp. Switch may not be presentFlat film pressure plate, revised film gate Bay II45 mm Xenotar3 (6 elements)Planar (6 elements) Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 5 Rolleiflex 3.5F (type 4)
3.555.0004 >3.556.164 1974-1976 Rolleiflex 3,5 F model 3with coupled exposure meter“White-face”5with ‘3,5 F’ preceding serial number below taking lensFlat film pressure plate, revised film gate Bay II45 mm Xenotar (6 elements) Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 5 Rolleiflex 3.5F Model 5
1.870.000 1.871.999 1959-1960 Rolleiflex 3,5 E2 model 1(User option: 2-range exposure meter) Bay II42 mm Planar (6 elements)Xenotar (6 elements) Rolleiflex 3.5 E2 Rolleiflex 3.5 E2 (type 1)
2.480.000 2.481.999 1961-1962 Rolleiflex 3,5 E2 model 2with Flat Glass option(User option: 2-range exposure meter) Bay II42 mm Planar (6 elements)Xenotar (6 elements) Rolleiflex 3.5 E2 Rolleiflex 3.5 E2 (type 2)
2.380.000 2.385.034 1961-1965 Rolleiflex 3,5 E3with Flat Glass option(User option: 2-range exposure meter) Bay II45 mm Planar (6 elements)Xenotar (6 elements) Rolleiflex 3.5 E3 Rolleiflex 3.5 E3

Notes

[1]
Features are only described when necessary to distinguish between cameras from a single production run or in case of special interest. Not all features are listed. Back
[2]
D.B.L.= Distance between taking lens and viewing lens. Back
[3]
According to literature Xenotars only. Cameras with Planars do exist within these number ranges: #1853762, #1867373, #2808513 and #2840753 are known to be fitted with Planars. Back
[4]
The idea to use serial numbers beginning with “35..” for the 3.5 cameras came in 1974. According to Prochnow this was shortly before production was ended. Only a few cameras from this range are known: #3,556,147 and #3,556,164. Sources do not agree on the year 3.5 production was ended. Probably around 1976. Later cameras may have been made from existing parts on special order only. A “Special Order” 3.5 #5205297 with Xenotar said to be from 1980 surfaced in 2005. Back
[5]
In November 2013 number 2840753 was brought to my attention. It is an early White-face and is equiped with a Planar. The number of the first camera with a White-face is unknown. It was an insignificant mid-series update. It probably was around #2840000. Back

Postwar Rolleiflex 4×4

Start S/N End S/N Produced Name acc. to Pr /Features1 Taking Lens Name acc. to Pa Name acc. to Ev
2.000.001 2.063.999 1957-1963 Rolleiflex 4×4 grauGrey paint and leather Baby 4×4 1957 Grey Rolleiflex Grey Baby
2.064.000 2.064.999 1963 Rolleiflex 4×4 schwarzBoth grey and black cameras Baby 4×4 1963 Black Rolleiflex Post-war Black Baby
2.065.000 2.069.120 1963-1968 Rolleiflex 4×4 schwarzBlack paint and leather Baby 4×4 1963 Black Rolleiflex Post-war Black Baby

Notes

[1]
Features are described to distinguish between cameras from a single production
run or in case of special interest.

Rolleimagic

Start S/N End S/N Produced Name acc. to Pr Taking Lens Name acc. to Pa Name acc. to Ev
2.500.000 2.524.999 1960-1962 Rolleimagic Xenar Rollei Magic I Rollei-magic I
2.535.000 2.547.600 1962-1968 Rolleimagic II Xenar Rollei Magic II Rollei-magic II

Rolleicord

Start S/N End S/N Produced Name acc. to Pr /Features1 Taking Lens Name acc. to Pa Name acc. to Ev
980.000 1.095.425 1947-1949 Rolleicord II model 5 Triotar 3.5Xenar 4.5Xenar 3.5 Rolleicord IIc Rolleicord II (type 5)
1.102.000 1.135.999 1949-1950 Rolleicord II model 6 Triotar 3.5Xenar 3.5 Rolleicord IId Rolleicord II (type 5)
1.137.000 1.199.999 1950-1953 Rolleicord III Xenar Rolleicord III Rolleicord III (type 1/2)
1.300.000 1.344.050 1950-1953 Rolleicord III Triotar Rolleicord III Rolleicord III (type 2)
1.344.051 1.390.999 1953-1954 Rolleicord IV Xenar Rolleicord IV Rolleicord IV
1.500.000 1.583.999 1954-1957 Rolleicord V Xenar Rolleicord V Rolleicord V
1.584.000 1.599.999 1957-1958 Rolleicord Va model 1EV scale Left Xenar Rolleicord Va Type 1 Rolleicord Va (type 1)
1.900.000 1.906.999 1957-1958 Rolleicord Va model 1EV scale Left Xenar Rolleicord Va Type 2 Rolleicord Va (type 1)
1.905.000 1.943.999 1958-1961 Rolleicord Va model 2EV scale Right Rolleicord Va Type 2 Rolleicord Va (type 2)
2.600.000 2.645.999 1962-1966 Rolleicord Vb model 1MXV-sync. Xenar Rolleicord Vb Type 1 Rolleicord Vb (type 1)
2.647.000 2.677.534 1966-1970 Rolleicord Vb model 2XV-sync. Xenar Rolleicord Vb Type 2 Rolleicord Vb (type 2)
2.647.000 2.677.534 1970-1977 Rolleicord Vb model 2Sychro-Compur X”White-face”2 Xenar Rolleicord Vb Type 2 Rolleicord Vb (type 2)

Rolleiflex T

Start S/N End S/N Produced Name acc. to Pr /Features1 Taking Lens Name acc. to Pa Name acc. to Ev
T 2.100.000 T 2.155.999 1956-1961 Rolleiflex T model 1Grey leather12/16 exp. on 120 film TessarOPTON Te Oberkochen Rolleiflex T 1 Rolleiflex T (type 1)
T 2.156.000 T 2.156.249 06/1961 Rolleiflex T Special Edition 24Grey leather12/24 exp. on 120 film TessarOPTON Te Oberkochen
T 2.157.000 T 2.189.999 1961-1964 Rolleiflex T model 2Black leatherSynchro-Compur VXM TessarOPTON Te Oberkochen Rolleiflex T 1 Rolleiflex T (type 1)
T 2.190.000 T 2.199.999 1964-1966 Rolleiflex T model 2Black leatherSynchro-Compur VXMm and ft scales TessarOPTON Te Oberkochen Rolleiflex T 2 Rolleiflex T (type 2)
T 2.199.000 T 2.249.999 1966-1970 Rolleiflex T model 3Black leatherSynchro_compur VXm and ft scales TessarOPTON Te Oberkochen Rolleiflex T 2 Rolleiflex T (type 3)
T 2.310.000 T 2.313.949 1970-1976 Rolleiflex T model 3Black leatherSynchro-Compur VXm and ft scales”White-face”2 TessarOPTON Te Oberkochen Rolleiflex T 2 Rolleiflex T (type 3)
T 2.314.000 T 2.320.449 1970-1976 Rolleiflex T model 3Black leatherSynchro-Compur VXm and ft scales”White-face”** TessarOPTON Te Oberkochen Rolleiflex T 3 Rolleiflex T (type 3)

Tele-Rolleiflex, Wide-Angle Rolleiflex

Start S/N End S/N Produced Name acc. to Pr /Features1 Taking Lens Name acc. to Pa Name acc. to Ev
S 2.300.000 S 2.306.419 1959-1965 Tele-Rolleiflex model 1Flat Glass Sonnar 4/135 Tele Rolleiflex Tele Rolleiflex (type 1)
S 2.306.420 S 2.306.871 1965-1966 Tele-Rolleiflex ZwischenmodelFlat Glass12/24 exp. Sonnar 4/135 Tele Rolleiflex Tele Rolleiflex (type 1/2)
S 2.306.872 S 2.308.498 1966-1975 Tele-Rolleiflex model 212/24 exp. Sonnar 4/135 Tele Rolleiflex Tele Rolleiflex (type 2)
W 2.490.000 W 2.493.501 1961-1965 Weitwinkel-Rolleiflex model 1Flat Glass”Half Moon” under strap hanger Distagon 4/55 Wide-Angle Rolleiflex Wide-Angle Rollei
W 2.493.502 W 2.493.905 1965-1967 Weitwinkel-Rolleiflex model 2Flat Glass”Half Moon” up to 196612/24 exp. Distagon 4/55 Wide-Angle Rolleiflex Wide-Angle Rollei
Find Your Rollei more efficiently NOW on eBay

Rolleiflex SLX & 6000 system

Article preserved  from the now defunct web site: www.photographical.net (re-edited).

Introduction

Rolleiflex-SLX-cameraAt Photokina 2002 Rollei presented the first autofocus 6×6 medium format camera in the world – the Rollei 6008 AF.  This is the most sophisticated camera in the 6000 series from Rollei. The 6000 series actually started with the Rolleiflex SLX back in 1976.  Although the camera wasn’t called anything with “6000” is was the birth of the 6000 models.  This article is not so much a review (or “historical review”) of the Rolleiflex SLX but more a description of the camera, how it was constructed and what makes it so interesting.

A short description of the SLX

The SLX is a single lens reflex (SLR) camera with interchangeable lenses with a shutter built in to the lens (leaf shutter). The film back can be removed and replaced by a 6×4,5 back or a Polaroid back, but the backs aren’t “interchangeable” (in the sense, that it can’t be interchanged with film in it). The viewfinder is interchangeable and a prism can be attached. There is a built in light meter and a shutter speed priority exposure mode.  The camera is fully electronic and only runs with a battery.

An all electronic camera

Rolleiflex SLX_bothsideThe SLX wasn’t the first single lens reflex from Rollei. Already at Photokina in 1966 the SL66 camera was presented. However, while the SL66 was a mechanical camera, the new SLX presented at Photokina in 1974, was a totally electronic camera. No springs or feathers. An electric motor runs the camera and a new electrical shutter was build into all lenses. This means that the camera is a “direct drive” camera not unlike what we know today from many modern electronic film cameras.

A new shutter

To make a fully electronic camera Rollei invented a new shutter with two linear motors built into the lens. Constructing a leaf shutter capable of at least 1/500 sec. and with a big enough aperture wasn’t easy but Rollei managed to construct a shutter with a diameter of 24mm and a maximum speed of 1/500 sec. The lenses contains two linear motors; one for controlling the shutter and one for the aperture. Later came an even faster shutter capable of 1/1000 sec. or a bigger diameter (34mm) for a larger maximum aperture.

  • After the SLX (produced from 1976 to 1979) Rollei produced the SLX model 2 (1978-1985) , which was very similar to the original SLX, but it was updated with more reliable electronics.
  • SLX : 1976 – 1979. 1,5 frames pr. second. Build-in light meter with shutter priority mode.
  • SLX 2 : 1978 – 1985. Improved electronics.
  • SLX 2 metric : 1981 – 1984. Technical camera with reseau plate in film plane.

The 6000 series

  • 6006 : 1984 – 1989. Interchangeable film backs. TTL flash meter.
  • 6006 metric : 1984 – 1999. Technical camera with reseau plate in film plane.
  • 6002 : 1986 – 1990. Updated version of the SLX. 0,7 frames pr. second. TTL flash meter.
  • 6008 professional : 1988 – 1992. More advanced light metering including spot meter. Aperture priority and program mode. Handgrip.
  • 6006 2 : 1989 – 1993. Multi exposure.
  • 6008 metric : 1991 – 1995. Industrial/Scientific/Forensic camera with reseau plate in film plane and ring flash.
  • 6008 professional SRC 1000 : 1993 – 1995. 1/1000 sec. shutter support.
  • 6008 professional Gold Edition : 1994. Collectors model.
  • 6003 SRC 1000 : 1994 – 1996. Scaled down version of 6008. Sold without interchangeable backs. 1/1000 sec. shutter support.
  • 6008 integral : 1995 – 2003(?). 2,5 frames per second. 3rd generation electronics with MasterControl.
  • 6008 ChipPack metric : 1995 – 1998. Industrial/Scientific/Forensic camera with digital back (2048 x 2048 pixels).
  • 6003 professional : 1996 – 2003(?). Like the 6003 SRC 1000, but with 3rd generation electronics and 2,0 frames/second.
  • Rolleiflex Q16 MetricCamera : 1997. Industrial/Scientific/Forensic digital camera with. “Full frame” 6×6 digital back with 4096 x 4096 pixels. Based on the 6008 integral.
  • 6008 E : 1997 – 2000. Delivered without handgrip and High-D screen.
  • 6008 metric : 1998 – ?. Industrial/Scientific/Forensic camera with reseau plate in film plane.
  • 6001 professional : 1998 -2002. 1,5 frames pr. second (like the original SLX). No light meter. The “studio model”
  • 6001 RCC : 2000 – 2004. Studio camera for digital backs.
  • 6008 AF : 2002 – . The first 6×6 autofocus in the world. Highly programmable directly from camera or via computer.
  • 6008 integral2 : 2003 – . Updated version of the integral. Electronics from the 6008 AF, but without AF.

Technical data SLX

  • Single Lens Reflex type camera, fully motor driven, electronically controlled.
  • 1.5 pictures/sec.
  • Center-weighted integral metering by 3 Si elements behind the mirror. Two red LEDs indicates over or under exposure.
  • Shutter-speed priority mode or fully manual.
  • Shutter speeds from 1/500 sec. to 30 sec. and B
  • Film speed setting from 25 to 6400 ISO.
  • Viewfinder with built-in 3.3x loupe.
  • Size (WxDxH) : 10,6cm x 10,8 x 13,8. 1250 Kg without film and lens.

SLX Taken apart

Rolleiflex-SLX---a-description

  • Planar 80mm f/2.8 with built-in shutter
  • Viewfinder
  • Camera body
  • Film back (with a setting knob for 120 or 220 film)
  • Quick-load film insert designed by Claus Prochnow
  • Polaroid back.

Compared to the TLR’s

Rolleiflex-SLX-TLRIf the TLR’s are workhorses, the SLX is a tank. It’s outer build quality is extremely high and it seems very rugged. The lens bayonet is big and strong, the viewfinder is also bigger than on the TLR models. Loading film is a lot easier, thanks to the quick load insert invented by Claus Prochnow. When used on a tripod, it’s still easy to load a new film, as opposite the TLR models, which has to be removed from a tripod before new film can be loaded. There is a lot of design familiarity with the TLR. In use it is quite different from the TLR of course. Focus is on the lens barrel and shutter speed is selected via the dial on the right.

Metering

Rolleiflex-SLX-aperture-indicator

The aperture indicator on the lens

As mentioned above, the SLX has a built-in center-weighed meter. Light can be measured by pushing the rectangular black button on the right side below the speed dial. This will also cause the aperture to be stopped down and the photographer can get a depth of field preview. This is a great advantage compared to the TLR’s were there is no depth of field preview (well, you can actually get aperture blades to attach to the viewing lens, but that’s more difficult to use). If the picture is still going to be either over- or under- exposed, two LEDs will turn on inside the viewfinder, indicating in what way to turn the speed dial in order to get correct exposure:

Rolleiflex-SLX-led-indicators

The blue ring on the picture above shows the position of the battery LED. When it lights up, it’s time to recharge the battery.

Battery The SLX takes a 10V rechargeable NiCd battery which is good for about 1000 frames when fully charged. Lenses Quite a large range of lenses are available for the SLX from Rollei, Zeiss or Schneider. Personally I only have the standard 80mm Planar f/2.8 from Carl Zeiss. But lenses ranging from 30mm to 1000mm are available used or new. Some of the new lenses can not be used on the SLX. The so-called PQS with the fast 1/1000 shutter can not be used on the SLX.   A few interesting Schneider Optics lenses

  • 80mm f/2.0 Xenotar
  • 180mm f/2.8 Tele-Xenar
  • 300mm f/4.0 Apo-Tele-Xenar
  • A 1.4x longar was constructed especially for these lenses

All exceptional fast lenses and which are supposed to be of very high quality. Electronical/Mechanical failures The first models of the SLX (the “original model”) seems to have a reputation of being rather failure prone when it comes to the electronics. A cure for the camera seems to use the more reliable  electronic spare parts from the very similar 6002 model.

Rollei HFT Anti Reflex Coating

Until the end of the 1960s, all camera lenses were protected against reflections and flare with a single- or dual layer of coatings. After that time, lens makers applied a new technology of layered coatings to their lenses: Multi Coating. Carl Zeiss called it’s version of Multi Coating T*.
In a joint-venture with Zeiss, Rollei developed their own version of Multi Coating and named it HFT for High Fidelity Transfer. Remember, it was the time of High Fidelity being a big thing in Home Stereo development. hft_coating_sIn 1972, Rollei started their own production of lenses under license from Carl Zeiss; this took place in the former Voigtländer Optical Works near the Rollei factory in Brunswick, Germany, which had been acquired by Zeiss and Rollei at the time. The German production of Made by Rollei lenses, and those made in Singapore, were all HFT lenses. Except for the fact that multi coated lenses bear the HFT sign on the front lens mount HFT lenses can be easily identified because they glow red and/or  dark green, as opposed to single or dual coated Zeiss lenses which have a golden and blue glow. A few Zeiss lenses have been sold with HFT coating not bearing the HFT sign on the lens.

Having HFT multi coating is only important when a small bright source of light strikes the front lens. In that case, the lens shows more of a grayish lens flare than the HFT version will do. Ghost images will also appear more visible. 07_80mm_planar_Zeiss_HFTFor Medium Format Photography, HFT is less important with lenses from 80mm to 1000mm, especially when the lens shade is used. For the 80mm lens, since the front element is safely recessed, and especially with the shade mounted, there is seldom a chance of flaring, but it is possible in certain situations. For the wide angle lenses, when shooting back lit and outdoors, HFT is better, especially with the big 40mm lens. The 30mm Fisheye, the 40mm Distagon FLE and the 60mm Distagon only exist in HFT versions, because they are designs released after 1972. For the 50mm Distagon, if you are shooting outdoors a lot, and against the light, HFT is a beneficial thing to have.
Keep in mind that the original Zeiss lenses with dual coating already were extremely good protected against flare, and according to some connoisseurs, the HFT coated lenses are believed to draw a little bit softer image.

Good advice: always use a shade, or, even better, a compendium shade.

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Rolleiflex 6008

Review by Philip Greenspun, 1997 in photo.net

Surveying new medium format cameras, one finds the following: ancient mechanical mechanisms controlling things more accurately and reliably done electronically; no exposure meters unless one is willing to use a prism finder; cumbersome dark slides and film loading; pre-War industrial design.

The Rollei 6008 (and its sibling, the cheaper 6003) represents a milestone. Combining solid engineering, old ideas from the 35mm world and dozens of elegant and simple original ideas, Rollei built a machine that facilitates creativity and a high percentage of useable shots.

The 6008 is a 6×6 cm. camera in the mold established by Hasselblad in 1948. The camera is a box containing a mirror, motor drive, xmeter, some controls and displays and a microcomputer. Lenses, film magazines and viewfinders are interchangeable. Each lens contains a leaf shutter and diaphragm electronically controlled from the camera body.

Lenses

Texas Falls, Vermont.

A comprehensive array of lenses for the 6008 is available. There are no mechanical linkages between the camera and lenses; all information is communicated through ten gold-plated contacts. Almost all Zeiss lenses available in Hasselblad mounts are also available with Rollei mounts and shutters, making for a line of 10 lenses with focal lengths from 40mm to 500mm. Expect to get reamed on the price, though. For example, in July 1995, B&H Photo listed the Zeiss 60/3.5 for the ‘Blad at $2200 and for the Rollei at $3650. The premium on a Zeiss 40 was $2000; on a Zeiss 250/5.6., it was $1000 more for the Rollei mount.

Schneider makes a line of lenses for the Rollei as well. The most interesting are super fast lenses, e.g., an 80/2, a 180/2.8, and a 300/4 ($4500 to $6500 at B&H). I personally owned the Zeiss 50/4, Schneider 80/2.8, Zeiss 120/4 macro, and Zeiss 250/5.6. The Schneider was the sharpest lens and a joy to use, but it has been discontinued. The 120 was disappointingly flare-prone and delivered low contrast results even in the studio with a white background. I initially was very taken with the Zeiss 50 (equivalent to a 28mm on a Nikon) but after the Nikon 20mm spoiled me into going wider and wider in 35mm, I found it constraining and the perspective uninteresting. Note that the Zeiss 50 for the Rollei is $3092 and does not incorporate a floating element; the ‘Blad 50 FLE is $2481 and presumably the floating element leads to dramatically better near-far shots.

[Old Rollei 6006 lenses, some of which you can buy relatively cheaply used, work on the 6008, but not very well. Metering modes and finder displays do not all work, but worst is the loud click the lens makes stopping down before each shot. This click gives human subjects enough time to flinch or blink. The newer “PQ” lenses for the 6008 do work nicely on the 6006.]

Film Backs

Devils' Postpile. Mammoth, California

Film magazines are available for 120, 220, 70mm, and Polaroid film. Square 6×6 and horizontal 6×4.5 formats are offered. The film magazines are one of the best features of the Rollei system. Moving a single handle rolls the dark slide within the magazine, simultaneously protecting the film and mechanically enabling the magazine to be removed. Each film magazine contains an ISO dial that couples to the 6008’s meter. If one is using autoexposure, grabbing a shot with a different emulsion takes seconds and there is no possibility of exposure error, dropping a dark slide or other contretemps. The Polaroid magazine lacks the sophisticated laminar dark slide but is otherwise functional. In general, Rollei makes mid-roll film changing easier than any other camera.

Rollei’s windowshade dark slide system requires that the film be pushed back and forth when you are changing magazines. This apparently makes it impossible to use simple mechanical registration for film winding. Some kind of electronic encoder wheel is used to see if the film has been advanced far enough. This never works “well” in the sense that frames are evenly spaced, like they are with a ‘Blad or even a cheap Fuji folder 645. It seldom fails altogether, in the sense that frames overlap (maybe 1 out of 4,000 frames for a working magazine) a few mm, but can be irritating when you’re trying to cut down negs. One of my three backs was persistently bad about film overlapping and required several warranty repairs to keep the problem to a minimum. This can be irksome when you consider that a Rollei back costs $1000, versus $650 for a ‘Blad back or $750 for a Fuji 645 that can take 120 or 220 and they throw in a lens plus a meter.

[You can save money by getting a used Rollei 6006 film magazine, but the 6008 assumes ISO 100 film, necessitating use of the exposure compensation dial on the camera body with non-ISO 100 emulsions.]Provincetown Dunes. Cape Cod. Massachusetts.

A motor drive on a 12-exposure camera is surprisingly useful. Photographing models with available light, the 2 fps (2.5 on the Integral) motor drive captures subtle expressions. Automatic windup to frame 1 and windout at the end of each roll are convenient on 20-roll days. The motor drive prevents inadvertent double exposures and unused frames, a classic way to lose with a Hasselblad when you change film magazines before winding up to the next frame. There is also no winding crank on the film magazine for the inexperienced to mistakenly operate, another Hasselblad perennial. For intentional multiple exposures, a convenient knob disengages the camera’s winding gear; the motor still runs to operate the mirror, but the film and film counter do not advance.

If one isn’t completely sold by the laminar dark slides and motor drive, Rollei also has $85 film inserts that make loading new film as as fast as with a Nikon. The 6008 is a tall camera so film simply travels from one spool to another without doubling back on itself as it does in a Hasselblad or Bronica magazine. One puts the roll of fresh film on the empty side of the insert (where the last roll was pulled out) and winds out enough film onto the takeup spool until an arrow on the insert lines up with an arrow on the film. One finally drops the insert into the film magazine. This operation is itself considerably quicker than loading most other medium format cameras, but what is truly effective is preloading several inserts. Each insert has a slot into which a folder film box top can be inserted. The box top will then be visible through a window in the film magazine. Each insert comes with a reasonably light-tight case so that film can be loaded well in advance.

[Bob Solomon of HP Marketing claims that the Rollei film transport system gives sharper results than with the Hasselblad-style folding over of the film. The film is pressed up against some rails in the body so that the film plane is independent of which back is installed. In a ‘Blad or similar, the film plane is in each back, which is why the insert has to be precisely matched to the back itself to get maximum sharpness.]

Photographic Interlude

Alabama Hills. Eastern Sierra. Alabama Hills. Eastern Sierra.Alabama Hills. Eastern Sierra. Alabama Hills. Eastern Sierra.

These images are from my Sierra Mountains series.

Metering

Bodie, California.

Metering with the 6008 is straightforward. A large knob on the left side of the camera selects three modes: center-weighted; 1% spot; automatic average of five spot readings. Don’t plan to point and shoot in center-weighted mode. Rollei simply averages and weights toward the center and bottom of the frame. Results are not up to the standards set by 35mm SLRs with their databases of the right exposure for thousands of “common patterns”. Expect to use the conveniently-placed exposure lock, the spot meter, or metered- manual in any moderately complex situation. Shooting aperture and shutter speed are displayed digitally at all times. Match-LED metering is displayed in 1/3 stop increments and aperture, shutter speed and exposure compensation are both adjustable in 1/3 stop detented increments; this camera was built for the professional shooting color transparency film. One caveat: the older 6008 (non Integral) meter is only sensitive down to EV3 (ISO 100 film, f/2.8 lens), a pathetic performance compared to 35mm SLRs. At ISO 1600, that is an exposure of 1/15th of a second at f/2.8, a shot that might not even require a tripod. The 6008 Integral, introduced in late 1995, goes down to EV0.

One area where Rollei is head and shoulders above the 35mm crowd is the manner in which automatic exposure is selected. Rather than a complex display and a multi-function dial, Rollei added an “A” setting to aperture and shutter speed dials. Select 1/125th and f/8 and you get metered manual. Move the aperture dial to “A” and you get shutter priority autoexposure. Move the aperture back to f/8 and the shutter speed to “A” and you get aperture priority. Move both to “A” and you get total automation. Note that the 6008 has no idea what focal length lens is mounted, so program autoexposure doesn’t shift to faster shutter speeds with longer lenses. No matter what mode you are in, the viewfinder LEDs always show you the shooting aperture and shutter speed.

This parade of technology is powered by a 9.6V NiCd battery. The camera becomes a doorstop when this runs down, which is after about 300 exposures in my experience. A low battery warning appears about 20 exposures before death and swapping in a spare battery takes about 10 seconds. Spares are compact and cost about $165. An amateur might be able to get by without one since a 15 minute charge is good for 50 shots. I used the camera extensively in subfreezing temperatures and never had any trouble with the batteries. All the controls are easily operating when wearing winter gloves. Note that NiCd’s work better at low temperatures than disposable batteries.

Viewfinders

Viewing is through the standard collapsible hood, 45 or 90 degree prism finders or a magnifying hood. The view is bright in the Rollei tradition. The standard focusing screen includes a central split image, microprism collar and a 1 cm grid of fine lines for framing. Four other screens are available, but none are marked with precise 8×10 print proportions, which would be helpful for those who like to crop in the viewfinder.

No matter which finder and screen you use, the LED displays are visible and read correctly; the microcomputer electronically mirrors all displays to compensate for the installation of a prism finder. I personally find composing a picture with the waist-level finder extremely effective. Yet Rollei is the only 6×6 SLR manufacturer that combines metering with waist-level viewing. The 6008 is also the only 6×6 camera to display aperture and shutter speed in the viewfinder. The LEDs also signal the use of exposure compensation, meter lock and spot metering.

In the Field

Bodie, California

I shot several thousand rolls over four years with my Rollei 6008 system. It got rained on by sand for six hours in an Arizona slot canyon, splashed with South Pacific surf in New Zealand, handled by hamfisted photography students in a course I taught at MIT, and knocked around in an advertising photo studio. I feel that it is rugged enough for any professional application and 48-hour service is available in New Jersey.

Every feature on the camera has been useful to me on a regular basis. Every electronic bell and whistle has turned out to be practical. The only feature that I never used was the motor drive’s autobracketing settings. Autobracketing (up and down 2/3 stop) only works with autoexposure. Whenever a image has been important enough or complex enough to warrant bracketing, I have been using studio strobes or metered manual. Nor do I frequently use the multi-spot metering mode, preferring to average in my head.

Electronic Flash

Rack. Consumer Electronics Show. Las Vegas, Nevada. 1991

Flash photography with the Rollei/Metz C70 adaptor/Metz 45CT-5 combination is disappointing after one has experienced the joys of the Nikon flash system (even before the D metering of the N90). The film speed set on the film magazine does not affect the exposure; only the film speed set on the C70 adaptor. So changing emulsions is no longer such a breeze. Furthermore, I found that chromes were consistently 1/3 to 1/2 stop underexposed with the C70 set at normal film speed. The Metz has a slightly higher guide number than Nikon and Canon top of the line flashes but the Japanese flashes usually have better reach since they’ve zoomed to match the lens coverage.

When I use a modern Canon or Nikon, I often like to use one hand to hold the flash off-camera and the other to autofocus and shoot. You can’t do that with any medium format camera.

Two good things about the Metz/Rollei: TTL exposure is nice for macro work and fill flash is simple. To fill one stop under ambient, simply throw the camera into aperture priority autoexposure. The shutter speed will be set by the ambient light and won’t make any difference for the flash, since the leaf shutter syncs at any speed. Set the film speed on the C70 adaptor to twice whatever is set on the film magazine (so the flash “thinks” the film is twice as fast as the camera thinks). The flash will therefore always be one stop under. This doesn’t work with ISO 400 film, though, because the maximum speed settable is 400 so you can’t set 1600 for two stops underexposure, for example. The 6008 Integral allegedly has a fix for this.

The Action Grip

South Beach. Miami.

Included with the 6008 is an “action grip” that facilitates one-handed operation by right-handed photographers. This small handle plugs quickly in or out of the shutter speed dial when the shutter speed dial is set to a special position. The grip has a camcorder-like strap, cushioned with leather, that goes around your fingers. Rotation into any one of four positions is possible. A shutter release and meter lock button fall easily to hand, as does the camera power/motor drive mode switch. The grip changes the way you use this camera: you can hold the camera all day with one hand, yet still fit the camera into a gadget bag. The only other medium format SLRs with this ease of handling are the Bronicas with speed grips. If you go for the 6003 package (a “bargain” at $3600 with 80/2.8 lens), make sure you spring for the grip, which doesn’t come with it.

Filters

Rollei offers the advantage of bayonet mount filters, which are such a convenience it is a shame that they are not more popular in the 35mm world. Prices for Bay VI filters, which incorporate ball bearings in their mounts, are shocking — even more expensive than Hasselblad Bay 60 filters. Heliopan filters are the most reasonably priced and are superb optically. I frequently resort to “cheapo” B+W 67mm filters with a Heliopan adapter. At least most of the lenses take Bay VI filters, exceptions being the 350mm and 500mm, the super fast Schneider optics, the perspective control lens, the zooms and the 40mm.

Macro

Macro work with the 6008 is a pleasure because of the all-electronic lens/camera coupling. Extension tubes, bellows and lens reversing ring all contain no linkages and all preserve every automatic function. The TTL ambient and flash metering come in handy here. I would often go into the woods with a 6008, 120 macro lens and 34mm extension tube. However, Nikon’s floating-element macro lenses (infinity down to 1:1) and incredible flash systems made my Nikons preferable for most macro applications, though I suspect Rollei’s new Schneider macro lenses are vastly better than the Zeiss 120/4 I was using.

After four years, the only annoyances I really couldn’t adjust to were the following:

  • Black bear in a cave shots. I normally shoot on a tripod and hence keep a short electronic remote release attached. Thus the camera has three active releases: the remote, the one by the action grip and one in the traditional lower right corner of the front of the camera. It is easy to take “black bear in a cave” shots when pulling the camera in or out of a case.
  • When the neck strap is slack, the attachment hardware tends to rotate down and obstruct access to the stop-down button, which I used constantly. This was particularly irksome when using a prism finder.

South Beach. Miami.

The bottom line: Is a 6008 system worth buying? Before taking the plunge into any medium format system, one should ask oneself if 35mm or 4×5 equipment wouldn’t actually be better. For architecture and tabletop work, a used $500 4×5 outfit is unsurpassed. Low dispersion glass 300/2.8 lenses and super wide angle lenses for 35mm cameras facilitate some fascinating perspectives. If your final product is some sort of multimedia work, keep in mind that a PhotoCD scan for a 6×6 image is 7 to 15 times the price of a 35mm scan.

If you decide that you must have a medium format camera, consider whether you want to shoot 645, 6×6, 6×7, 6×8, 6×9, 6×12 or 6×17. Michael Freeman’sMedium Format Manual includes an excellent comparison of different aspect ratios. Forced to choose one, I would choose 6×6 because of the convenience of waist-level viewing without ever having to rotate the camera or film magazine. I enjoy the flexibility in cropping and the process of experimenting with different crops on a light table. Remember that a rectangular print can be pulled out of the square negative at any angle and still cover a large percentage of the image. And a lot of shots just look better square.

If you’re sold on 6×6, you’re probably debating whether to get a Rollei, Hasselblad, or Bronica. I don’t have enough experience with Bronica to say anything, but I know that Hasselblad is a more convenient system for certain applications. Standard accessories facilitate such applications as microscopy and aerial photography. The same film winding knob on the back of each magazine that novices mistakenly wind and waste film becomes useful when one wants to leave space between frames for registration pins. On the other hand, there are areas where Rollei shines. A standard housing and extensive automation make Rollei the choice for underwater photography. With the mirror prereleased, the time from shutter release to exposure is an electronically-controlled 3 msec. on a 6008, thus making possible motion studies that would be extremely tedious with a mechanical camera.

Rollei vs. Hasselblad

Rollei Hasselblad 500 series
meter center-weighted, spot and multi-spot meter in body center-weighted meter in $1500 meter prism
shutter electronically-controlled 30 to 1/500th of a sec, 1/3 stop increments, up to 1/1000th with some lenses, longer times with expensive auxiliary equipment mechanically-controlled speeds 1 to 1/500th, full stop increments, must hold down shutter release during exposures longer than 1/4 sec
film transport built-in motor drive optional motor driven model
handholding easy with action grip moderately easy to handhold
engineering electronic mechanisms that never need adjustment, but fail catastrophically mechanical mechanisms that need regular maintenance that usually fail gracefully
battery constant reliance on custom NiCd pack none needed
changing backs brilliant dark slide design standard (cumbersome) dark slide
changing film drop-in inserts tedious
resale value fair great
automatic exposure aperture, shutter and program AE no meter coupling of any kind
film backs 6×6, 6×4.5 horizontal 120 and 220 backs, 6×6 70mm, 70mm databack and Polaroid back 6×6, 6×4.5 horizontal and vertical 120 and 220 backs, 6×6 70mm, 70mm databack, Polaroid back, sheet film back, 35mm panaromic back
viewfinder info full information; f-stop and shutter speed to 1/3 stop, reminders of mexter mode, meter lock and exposure compensation, flash ready light and battery low indicator flash ready light
service 48 hours in New Jersey walk-in in most big cities
film ISO->meter coupling film backs keyed with ISO data, exposure adjusts automatically must remember to reset ISO on meter prism when swapping film backs
lens/camera coupling electronic, so macro accessories are simple and preserve automation mechanical, so macro accessories are complex and/or sacrifice automation
documentation sketchy owner’s manual excellent hardcover book covering entire system
appearance modern, clunky workhorse elegant, classic look of precision
“take my picture” can lend camera to novice for a few shots and expect good results infrequent users manage to find lots of subtle ways to ruin shots
lenses Zeiss lenses from 40mm to 500mm, Schneider 60, 80/2, 150 fixed, 75-150, 140-280 zooms, 55 perspective control, 2x teleconverter Zeiss lenses from 30mm to 500mm, Schneider 140-280 zoom, Zeiss UV 105, Zeiss 250 Superachromat, 2x teleconverters from Blad & Vivitar
renting lenses good luck any big city
filters Very restricted choice of bayonet or 67mm with adaptor reasonably wide selection of filters Hasselblad and third party filters
price terrifyingly expensive shockingly expensive (moving up to terrifying expensive with the 205TCC and associated electronic lenses)

Still confused as to whether Rollei or ‘Blad is a better deal? For me it was kind of a gut decision. I used Hasselblads fairly extensively but never grew to love them; the Rollei appealed to something I’d picked up hanging around MIT, perhaps.

How does one justify buying a Rollei 6008 system given the extraordinary bargains available in 35mm and the relatively low cost of 4×5 equipment? A fairly comprehensive Rollei system costs about $20,000. If one intends to keep the camera 5-10 years, the annual cost of foregone interest on the money and depreciation is about $200/month. The biggest expense for the serious photographer is time and the second is film and processing. The cost of the Rollei system is negligible compared to these two killers and there are many shots for which a 4×5 is too cumbersome and a 35mm just makes you wish you’d shot in a larger format.

On the third hand, after my Rollei system was stolen in Philadelphia back in 1993, I couldn’t justify replacing it. The price had soared from $14,000 in 1989, which seemed exhorbitant, to over $20,000 which seemed absurd. I decided to experiment with some wide-range 35mm zooms and take more pictures of people. I bought a Fuji 617 and a used Fuji 645W to prevent medium-format withdrawal, but I’m waiting for the next generation of cameras before sinking $20,000 into a medium format SLR system.

If someone held a gun to my head and said “you have to buy a medium format SLR right now,” I’d probably get the 6008, Schneider 80, Zeiss 40, and Schneider 300/4.

Of course, after a year or so with the 6003, I couldn’t resist playing with some of the superb new lenses. The images below are from summer and fall of 1999…

The Schneider 40mm lens

OARS boats in Grand Canyon Alex at Harvard Graduate School of DesignRed Rock Canyon, west of Las Vegas, Nevada

The Schneider 180mm lens

Red Rock Canyon, west of Las Vegas, Nevada Red Rock Canyon, west of Las Vegas, NevadaRed Rock Canyon, west of Las Vegas, Nevada Red Rock Canyon, west of Las Vegas, NevadaGrand Canyon

The Schneider 90 macro lens

Compare these to similar pictures above taken with the 180.

Red Rock Canyon, west of Las Vegas, Nevada Red Rock Canyon, west of Las Vegas, Nevada

 

Rollei Product Range in the 1980's

Rollei Product Range in the 1980’s

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