Serious love for Rolleiflex 3.5f

sixby45 · Nov 1, 2018

Hi everyone,

I have used a variety of cameras in the medium format space but I've just gotten a great condition Rolleiflex 3.5F and for anyone who is on the fence go for it!

I've been shooting with a mamiya RB67 and C330 lately and the sharpness while good with both of these lacks the German micro contrast in my opinion (others may disagree).

I went back and forth over to go the Rolleiflex route and I have to say I'm very glad I did!

I'll post some around the city shots soon as I've just developed my test roll of portra 400 - and it's really something else

Just wanted to hear about any other love stories from the Rolleiflex folks and encourage anyone who is on the fence to take the plunge.

Theo Sulphate · Nov 1, 2018

A 2.8D and 3.5F (I cover the selenium meter when I'm not using it):

Buy them while you can; they're not making them anymore.

chip j · Nov 2, 2018

Yes, I was extremely unhappy w/my C330 lenses--weren't sharp.

guangong · Nov 2, 2018

I have owned my Rollei 2.8F since about 1969-1970. Well built rugged machines. Dropped mine onto asphalt lot ( in case) from about 4 1/2 feet...only damage was shearing the little pin that helps keep back closed. Very compact and sits well in the hands. Responds quickly. There is a reason Rollei was once the camera of choice for both artists and news photographers.
However, I strongly recommend getting a case. Next to camera, that would be the best money spent.

sixby45 · Nov 2, 2018

Thanks for the advice about the case GuanGong - much appreciated! I'll be strolling the streets at lunchtime today around Chicago to see if I can snap some more snapshots before the weather turns too cold. Also need to stop by the camera shop (central camera - great place) and see if they can fit me with some alligator clip strap attachments.

JPD · Nov 2, 2018

I have an almost mint 3,5 F with Planar that I bought in the early 1990's, and I use it when I want that little extra sharpness and contrast, and for colour. My latest Rolleiflex is a mint 1939 Automat with uncoated Tessar, and it's of course also very sharp, and I have been using it for black and white. It's lighter than the 3,5 F. I have more Rollei's, but these two are the ones I have been using most in recent years. I have all the accessories I need. Very convenient, easy to use, cameras, and the results are excellent.

sixby45 · Nov 2, 2018

Very cool! Thanks JPD for sharing

NB23 · Nov 2, 2018

I own Two 3.5F and one 2.8E.

Sexy stuff.

Alan9940 · Nov 2, 2018

Don't have a 3.5F or 2.8 anything, but I do own and love using my MX-EVS. I really enjoy strolling around with it loaded with 400 speed film and handholding; what a joy and the pictures are plenty sharp for any size enlargement I typically make.

ic-racer · Nov 2, 2018

A while back I was seeking a 3.5F to go with my 2.8F. I wound up getting a Rolleicord instead. I really love these mechanical Rolleiflex cameras. I never had any desire for any mechanical Leica, but these Rolleiflex TLRs just fantastic. Your post makes me want to go looking for a 3.5F.

macfred · Nov 2, 2018

Rolleiflex 3.5F Planar (Model I - K4D - 1959) here - my favorite medium format camera. I can't imagine being without it now ...

Arklatexian · Nov 3, 2018

ic-racer said:
A while back I was seeking a 3.5F to go with my 2.8F. I wound up getting a Rolleicord instead. I really love these mechanical Rolleiflex cameras. I never had any desire for any mechanical Leica, but these Rolleiflex TLRs just fantastic. Your post makes me want to go looking for a 3.5F.
View attachment 210443

While I, too would like a 3.5 Rolleiflex, I am quite happy with my Rolleicord iV and would not be surprised at all if its lens is as sharp as a Rolleiflex. 3.5. The quality is there even in the less expensive equipment.........Regards!

R.Gould · Nov 3, 2018

I looked at a 2.8 rolleiflex recently but the lensa had balson problems, I already had a 1954 automat, and earlier this year bought a 3.5 T, plus I have a rolleicord 4 and 5A2, and they are my second all time favorite cameras, I also have 2 microcords, and the ross xpress lenses have the edge on the tessar lenses, but I love them alland would not be without any of them

guangong · Nov 3, 2018

Sixby45, if your strap is wearing out,DO NOT throw it out. Rollei straps are getting very expensive. A highly skilled shoemaker can replace the leather in the clips. I had my strap replaced with a strap at my specific length, so no buckle. If you happen to stumble across a Rollei strap, grab it!

Dan Daniel · Nov 3, 2018

guangong said:
Sixby45, if your strap is wearing out,DO NOT throw it out. Rollei straps are getting very expensive. A highly skilled shoemaker can replace the leather in the clips. I had my strap replaced with a strap at my specific length, so no buckle. If you happen to stumble across a Rollei strap, grab it!

AND along the same lines, be VERY careful of old leather straps in the first place. Dried leather can snap easily, without warning. Sending something like my first Rolleicord to the sidewalk and an early death.

I've fallen into the Op/Tech pro loop strap system for my Rolleis. A little pushing will get the loop through the Rollei strap lug. It falls away nicely when you lift the camera. I throw out the center neoprene section, cutting off the clips and sewing a 3/4" nylon webbing strap material in its place, but this is my preference. You also simply remove the center section, clip the two connectors together, and have a nice wrist/safety strap.

macfred · Nov 3, 2018

I bought this Rolleiflex Fit Scissor Strap Adapter for my 3.5F - it works perfect with a lot of straps.
https://www.ebay.de/itm/Rolleiflex-...h=item51eac9f2b2:g:JGIAAOSwlINbxgrw:rk:2:pf:0

Chrismat · Nov 3, 2018

I've liked using the Rolleiflex and Rolleicord cameras that I've owned, but I never end up keeping them. I really like my Autocord, Microcord, Kalloflex, and Mamiya C220. I do want a Rolleiflex as a keeper, I'm hoping some day to get a Rolleiflex 3.5C or possibly a 2.8C to keep permanently.

MattKing · Nov 3, 2018

Dan Daniel said:
I've fallen into the Op/Tech pro loop strap system for my Rolleis. A little pushing will get the loop through the Rollei strap lug. It falls away nicely when you lift the camera. I throw out the center neoprene section, cutting off the clips and sewing a 3/4" nylon webbing strap material in its place, but this is my preference. You also simply remove the center section, clip the two connectors together, and have a nice wrist/safety strap.

Optech also makes all sorts of connectors that will allow you to attach "normal" straps to those connectors.
Personally, I like the neoprene section for some of my cameras.

EdSawyer · Nov 3, 2018

I have a 3.5F, and love it. It was my gateway drug into the Rolleiflex world. Now I have a wide and tele to go along with it, and am looking for a 2.8F to try out also.

And then there's the sublime Rollei exotica like the 2.8F Platin Edition - so many nice ones out there, that inspire rabid desire...

sixby45 · Nov 3, 2018

Very cool! And thanks for the strap tips everyone!

pentaxpete · Nov 4, 2018

I did a VIDEO about my 4 Rolleiflexes -- stories behind them Print results etc --- you can see it here :

albireo · Nov 4, 2018

Hello everyone, loving your Rolleiflex stories, keep it up!

Just a question, where I live 3.5F are hard to find, whereas Rolleicord Va and Vb are pretty easy to find.

Those of you who own or have owned both - would you say a Cord is a good purchase? Does it have any of the traits of its more famous older 'sibling'? Cheers!

blacksquare · Nov 4, 2018

I have Cord Vb and I am really satisfied. Very portable (light), reliable, easy to use.

Alan9940 · Nov 4, 2018

I had a Cord Vb; very nice results. And, because Cords weren’t generally used personally they’re usually in better used condition than a Flex.

mitrajoon · Nov 4, 2018

I have both the 3.5F and 2.8F. Both are great, but for some reason (lighter more compact?), I enjoy the 3.5 a bit more.

Have fun!!

Serious love for Rolleiflex 3.5f

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