Rollei 35

Rollei 35 (S/N 3276634) with Carl Zeiss Tessar 3.5/40 - Good Condition | The Iconic Masterpiece of Compact Precision Engineering

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The Rollei 35 remains one of the most remarkable achievements in photographic history. When it debuted, it was the smallest full-frame 35mm camera in the world, a title it held for decades. This specific unit, serial number 3276634, is a sought-after early production model made by Rollei in Germany. It features the legendary Carl Zeiss Tessar 40mm f/3.5 lens, world-renowned for its "Eagle Eye" sharpness and high contrast. Combining a high-precision Compur shutter with a built-in Gossen light meter, the Rollei 35 is a mechanical marvel that fits in a pocket while delivering image quality that rivals professional SLRs of its era.

Key Features

• Carl Zeiss Tessar 3.5/40mm Lens: A premium 4-element design licensed from Zeiss, known for exceptional edge-to-edge resolution and vintage character.

• Made in Germany: An early production example from the Braunschweig factory, highly regarded by collectors for its historical significance and robust internal gearing.

• Compact "Clamshell" Design: Features a unique retractable lens barrel and bottom-mounted hot shoe to maintain its sleek, pocketable dimensions.

• Fully Mechanical Operation: The camera functions at all shutter speeds without a battery; the battery is required only for the light meter.

• Rollei R 1.5 Filter: Includes the original R 1.5 skylight filter, which protects the lens and reduces blue casts in daylight while adding a subtle warming effect.

Condition Report

• Body: Good condition. Shows light, honest wear consistent with its vintage status. The chrome finish is well-preserved, and the leatherette is secure.

• Optics: The Tessar lens is clean and clear. No fungus, haze, or scratches are present. The viewfinder is bright with clear frame lines.

• Mechanics & Electronics: The shutter fires accurately at all speeds, including the slower speeds which are often sluggish on older units. The light meter is responsive.

• Lens Barrel: The collapsible mechanism is firm and locks into the shooting position with precision.

Specialist Note

"Serial number 3276634 places this camera firmly in the classic German production era. There is a tactile satisfaction in the Rollei 35 that modern cameras can't match—the way the dials click and the lens retracts is pure engineering poetry. The inclusion of the R 1.5 filter is a great bonus, as these 24mm threads can be hard to find, and it ensures the precious Zeiss glass has been protected for decades."

What’s Included

• Rollei 35 Camera Body (Made in Germany, S/N 3276634)

• Carl Zeiss Tessar 3.5/40mm Lens

• Rollei R 1.5 Lens Filter (24mm)

• Original wrist strap

Technical Specifications

• Category: 35mm Compact Viewfinder Cameras

• Focal Length: 40mm

• Aperture Range: f/3.5 to f/22

• Shutter Speeds: 1/2s to 1/500s + Bulb (Compur Shutter)

• Focusing: Manual Zone Focus (0.9m to Infinity)

• Light Meter: CdS Cell (Coupled)

• Battery Type: 1.35V PX625 (Mercury) or modern 1.5V equivalent/zinc-air