Rolleiflex Model Guide?

[GarageBoy]

Is there a Rolleiflex TLR model guide out there that lists the differences between the gazillion variants?
Recognizing an F is easy, but to me, everything before looks the same
Thanks!

 

[elekm]

Visit the Rollei Club. That site has a lot of information about the various Rolleiflex models.

 

[Helinophoto]

Yes, but they can be a little different, depending, so better double check with all sources to be sure(r).

http://www.rolleiclub.com/cameras/tlr/info/serial_numbers.shtml

http://www.rolleigraphy.org/rolleisn2.html

http://www.rolleirepairs.com/models.htm

I had a hard time Figuring out that the beaten up and mouldy Rolleiflex I picked up in Japan for $30, actually was a Rollefiex Automat MX-EVS (and I'm still not 100% sure ).

 

[Dan Daniel]

Cross-check all the sites above and any others you can find. Look over the thread at rangefinderforum of photos of TLRs- lots of Rolleiflexes with ID-
http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=41980

Things I've learned to look for, in no particular order:

* strap lugs
* focus knob size, details, and surrounding flats
* DRP or DBP on nameplate? DRGM or DBGM? This marks the transition from Reich to Bundes (?) in the name of the German state.
* the flash sync switch and the self-timer switch- position and style
* shutter release style
* shutter release lock
* EVS system- numbers on shutter dial? de-coupling switch on aperture dial?
* focus hood- sports finder? removable? style of magnifier mount?

 

[Ulrich Drolshagen]

* DRP or DBP on nameplate? DRGM or DBGM? This marks the transition from Reich to Bundes (?) in the name of the German state.

Just to clear the term:
The name of the state in German is "Bundesrepublik Deutschland" which translates to "Federal Republic of Germany" in English. After WWII, resulting from the experiences made with the downfall of the "Weimarer Republik" (1918 to 1933), West Germany got a more decentralized political structure with most of the political power residing in initially ten federal states. Therefore, because it became a republic and because there wasn't much empire left to talk of, the name "Deutsches Reich" (German Empire) didn't make sense anymore.