I have now processed several rolls of Rollei R3, 35mm, taken with a Leica M6 and the new 50mm/1.4 lens. I rated the film at ISO 200, and I have processed the rolls with the Jobo using Rollei low speed developer at 75 degrees F, 24.5 minutes with continuos rotation of course, following a pre -soak for 3 minutes with distilled water at the same 75 degree temperature. No stop both, then two distilled water washes for 30 secs and dump, then 4 minutes in Photographers Formulary TF4 Fixer at 75 degrees followed by careful washing with 3 changes of 75 degree distilled water at 5 minutes each continuous rotation ( perhaps I might have been able to do with less? ). Photoflow for 1 minute, hung without using the squeegee...preliminary results viewing the negatives is quite amazing. Unexposed film leader completely clear with tremendous details in the shadows....grains of sand of various sizes and colors are perfectly rendered. Will print some contact sheets as soon as I can, and give you all some follow up. I am trying to compare the results with Delta Pro 100 developed in DDX, and I cannot offer any really firm conclusions yet without some additional testing. I have already ordered some additional 35mm film, and will try the 120 film in the Hasselblad before proceeding to try some 4x5. The 4x5 is very costly per sheet, and I might simply stay with Delta 100 Pro with TMax second ( because of the ready loaders ).
More information to follow. If anyone else here has used R3 I would certainly appreciate knowing of some pitfalls, hints, and results. Thanks.
Edwin
