Hi to all.
I just bought my first Rollei from an internet auction site. Since I don't want to spend too much money on my camera collection despite the Rollei 35 was my big wish, I risked a bit. I bid on Rollei 35 that was poorly photographed and poorly described as well. The only thing I was certain was that it is black and 35 model (not 35 S, 35 T or 35 SE).
However, when it arrived, it was in a decent condition - there is some wear on the black finish and some not critical dents on the housing, but the lens is as new since it was protected by the filter. The filter was also a reason that the front lens plate wasn't clearly visible in the add. And the lens was surprise: It's Sonnar 2,8.
I surfed the web a lot but I didn't find any picture or mention of Rollei 35 with Sonnar lens. Does anybody know anything about this combination? Is it possible that the lens was replaced? However, the aperture setting wheel also allows setting of F/2.8.
I have to say that the camera cost me 40 EUR so there is almost no chance that it was an intentional fake. The camera looks used since the advance lever has lost some finish, high shutter speeds sound accurate, lower speeds are a bit sticky.
The lens serial number is 2341071 and the body serial number is 3481120. The back is engraved "made by Rollei Singapore".
So far I figured out that the body serial number fits into Singapore made Rollei 35, but with Tessar (or S-Xenar) lenses. Is it true?
Can anybody help me determine my Rollei origin? Is it pristine or altered later? Is there any Sonnar serial number list with dates so I would be able to compare it with the body serial number?
Thank you for your help. I will be glad if anyone would share some thoughts with me about my Rollei 35.
Regards, Ziga.