Rolleiflex Model Confirnation

[Martin Singleton]

Need to double check a Rolleiflex model. A dealer I buy from regularly has asked for help with a Rollei. I've given it a clean up and got it working but just wanted to check the precise model. It has the serial number 663023, which I think makes it an Automat Model 2 from 1938-39. Am I right in my guesswork?Unfortunately it is a bit out of my budget at the moment but I wanted to give him the right info and a fair estimate on price as he gives me first refusal and a decent price on any cameras he gets in. Thanks Martin

 

[JPD]

Yes, that's correct. The one on my avatar is from 1938 as has the serial number 797xxx. I have one from 1939 as well, with bayonets on both lenses and a serial number in the 9xxxxx range.

 

[Kino]

Looks like it might be an Automat Model 1.

http://www.rolleiclub.com/thedarkroom/?p=3084

(just going by the serial #)

 

[JPD]

Looks like it might be an Automat Model 1.

http://www.rolleiclub.com/thedarkroom/?p=3084

(just going by the serial #)

Rollei club doesn't list all types. The first type lacks the cover for the shutter release button. The second type has that cover. Both types have bayonet on the taking lens only. The third model got bayonets on both lenses. The early ones of the third type have grey shutter speed/aperture wheels and the later ones have black.

Type 1: Aug. 1937 - Feb. 1938. 568616 - 610645
Type 2: Feb. 1938 - Mar. 1939. 610646 - 804999
Type 3: Mar. 1939 - Sept. 1949. 805000 - 1099999

 

[Kino]

Interesting... Good to know!

 

[shutterfinger]

I use http://www.rolleiclub.com/cameras/tlr/info/serial_numbers.shtml then the side bar links which give a picture and more detailed information on each model. http://www.rolleiclub.com/cameras/tlr/info/all_TLR.shtml
Rolleiflex Automat 6 X 6 Model RF 111A August 1937 - March 1939.

 

[Martin Singleton]

Thanks Everyone. It has the shutter button cover and the bayonet on the taking lens so type 2.

 

[Down Under]

A brief note en passant. I own one of these babies, now on long-term loan to a dear friend who adores Rolleis but lived on a low income and can't afford one and also shoots only black-and-white. She loves it and everything she shoots with it turns out eminently printable, as much from the legendary 'flex quality as the photographer's talent.

Which is the catch. This Rolleiflex has an uncoated Tessar and is best used shooting only B&W. Even when using a lens hood the image contrast is somewhat on the low side and a little extra developing should be given to the film for what used to be known as a "plucky" image. If shooting color neg one is best using consumer film and not the lower contrast pro films. Lovely pastel colors ideally suited to portraits. Landscapes less so.

I bought mine in the 1990s for A$130. For a long time they sold for A$100-$150 but prices have now shot up. Some Ebay sellers want up to A$750, which to me seems a triumph of hope over fantasy.

A bit off-topic but may be useful information to some.