Rolleiflex 2.8FX "Prototype"?

psmith2383

Member
Joined
Apr 12, 2010
Messages
1
Location
Omaha, Nebraska, USA
Format
Medium Format
I'm looking at getting a Rolleiflex 2.8FX but many that are offered "new" are described as "Prototype." Any idea what that means? I'm a bit skittish about that term. These are new units. I'd be more inclined to buy used "non-prototype" black. The idea of lugging around an "orange FX Prototype" kind of gives me the willies. Phil
 

dpurdy

Member
Joined
Jun 24, 2006
Messages
2,673
Location
Portland OR
Format
8x10 Format
Phil, I am on the outside looking in but I did buy one of the original brown cowhide FXs back in 2006. I think they tried to come up with any selling point they could to interest people. I believe, without conformation, that all the prototypes you see are designated that way to try to increase perceived value. There is no difference in any of the cameras aside from different color leather. If you are concerned with aesthetics then pick what you like. I like the all black leather without the chrome edges. To me they are the most beautiful Rolleis ever made. But that doesn't change the fact of a Planar lens with HFT coating. The later versions call the lens an Apogon but it is really just the Planar with the multi coatings. I verified that with the company. So the long and short of it is to find a camera with a reputable company that offers a guarantee for some amount of time. It is a great camera and I have had mine for 11 years and it is still like new.
 
Cookies are required to use this site. You must accept them to continue using the site. Learn more…