Rolleiflex TLR

[photo-file]

Would like to seek opinions here.

There are so many releases of the classic Rolleiflex TLR, if you will to buy 1 for keep, which one would it be and why?

 

[ricohflex]

Would like to seek opinions here.

There are so many releases of the classic Rolleiflex TLR, if you will to buy 1 for keep, which one would it be and why?

answer : aurum
reason : classic

 

[singscott]

Love tessar lens. So a grey tessar is for me :lovegrin:

 

[zmwang]

White face 2.8F for me.

Or the WA one

 

[Tachi]

You may like to look around those models using Bay 1 accessories. The main reason being that this range of camera body is light in weight, cost of accessories is cheaper than Bay 2 or Bay 3 type. Although the f-stop 2.8 are better, but they are heavier & accessories cost more.

Those using Bay 1 accessories are normally lens with f-stop 3.5, I have a grey Rolleiflex T (Tessar) & like what I've told you, the lens is "bloody" sharp. Warning : you will sell your hassy stuff after comparing the result (no joke)!!

My recommendation:
1st choice : 3.5F Xenotar
2nd choice : 3.5F Planar
3rd choice : Rolleiflex T

E-bay is a good source of these cameras, the condition of cameras found in local 2nd shop may not be good, although I have seen some good ones in Ron-camera. But the price may be high, so good luck with Ron..


Regards
Tachi..

 

[fuwen]

For me I would prefer the modern TLR with both Zeiss viewing lens and taking lens. Sonnar f2.8 of course.

 

[chan_cy]

try to get a late F series one, which has exposure meter with coupled speed and aperture EV values on the dial,makes life a lot easier. 3.5 or 2.8 only 1/2 stop difference, but latter usually cost more. Xenotar is about the same as Zeiss, but rarer. usually ebay will have a few on sale at any one time. get one and if need to send for CLA (clean, lubricate and adjust) at one of the local shops eg PG at adelphu or tcw. viewfinder screen is usually ok state, but if want brighter can always get a beattie intenscreen or maxwell. hope this helps.

 

[moon]

The aurum is a collector's item. 5000 pcs . Lizard skin and Gold plated. Planar 2.8. Comes with a wooden box. Trading about USD $5-6 K.

The Zeiss Planar 3.5 and 2.8 are also pricely. It's sort after by collectors in minty conditions. Seen clubsnapper going about $1-$1.2K. Depending on condition. Xenotar are slighty cheaper. It's favour by users. Fast and Sharp lens.

I suggest u get a decent Planar 3.5 within you budget.

Furthermore, they are many accessories. They closeup Rolleinar 1-3, filters, Rollei35mm kit, Panorama, etc etc.

It's a great joy to use these TLR. I mainly use for Landscape and Studio Potraiture and low angle shots. Max shutter speed 1/500. It's VERY quiet and vibration FREE.

I am not sure about the Maxwell screen. It comes in 2 type. Grid and Split screen. About $200++. Order from Bill Maxwell in USA. But i got friends who use and change back to the original screen !!

I suggest u research into the Rolleiflex series in the NET and see which model suits your needs and budget best.

Well, the results are........simply remarkable.