very sharp lens, well made, great deal in used MF

only one focal length lens, not easy to use for close-up work

The classic MF TLR with outstanding lenses and designed to last. For a general use, MF camera, a used Rolleiflex is the best buy. If you are a student looking at MF, a Rolleicord V, Va, or Vb is cheaper, and with a good performing Xenar 3.5/75mm a good value.

Customer Service

a number of good repair people in use

Similar Products Used:

Rolleicord, Hassy, RB 67

Extremely Rugged. Cameras are all mechanical, so they can operate without worrying about batteries. Meter models are uncoupled. Quiet shutter, free of vibration. Compur shutter can synch with electronic flash at any speed -- good for fill flash. Extremely sharp. Very cost-effective way to get into medium format. A number of good models to choose from -- offer price points from $100 to $2000. Accessories are available-- best source is on-line auctions. Square format provides a nice artistic touch for art photography and exhibits. Alternatively, it gives flexibility for cropping. Using a 40 year old camera, I'm not afraid to use it in any weather. Controls are classic and self-explanatory -- I learned to use it without a manual. (watch out for threading the film thru the rollers).

Close-up lenses are hard to find and expensive. Barrel distortion is apparent when shooting architecture and camera is tilted. No interchangeable lenses. An external light meter is more convenient than the built-in meters in the older models. No shutter speeds above 1/500. Lowest shutter speeds ( below 1/8 can get sluggish in very old cameras. It's a nuisance to change rolls and re-load after just 12 pictures. Film advance is by winding a crank, This is reasonable, but you probably can't do more than 1 frame per sec.

These cameras are reliable; high quality overall; a delight to use; later models with coated lenses are very sharp. Classic good looks are a conversation starter when you wish to photograph strangers. :-)

Customer Service

Haven't had to use, but I am aware of several. They can be accessed by web search. Due to the basic design and simplicity, the repairs for normal wear and tear are reasonable.

Similar Products Used:

Rolleiflex Automat; 3.5E; 2.8E; 2.8GX

*****Mechanical Shutter
*****2.8 Lens(Planar or Xenotar)
*****Descrete shutters
****Well balanced around hands
***Portability
**Interchangable Veiw finders

--will most likely need cleaning, lubrication, and adjustmens(CLA)
--unpredictable built-in light meter
-non-interchangable back

I thought I was dreaming when I saw them inside a camera bag priced for 50 bucks for the whole package. They were a Rolleiflex 2.8F Type I and II.

I love the portability of these cameras versus a "blad". They are truely "street" tested~ mainly for there silent shutters and the small size. The optics on these Rolleiflex's are increadible. In my opinion they are far better than the Japanese competitors both new and old. The Xenotar and Planar optical formula render the same quality in my negatives. I can't tell the difference.

Of course the only bad thing about buying a 60's vintage shooter is the fact that it my need a CLA(cleaning, lubrication, adjustment). I think I paid $140 each for CLA and worth every penny. Another thing is the built-in meter. It is not that accurrate. I preffer to use a hand-held meter, especially when it's indoors.

Overall performance with the camera is increadible~ mainly it's optical capability!!

Customer Service

non~ but there are so many specialist who can a CLA for your vintage shooter

Similar Products Used:

Yashica 635
Yashica A
Yashica-Mat G
Mamiya 330P
Mamiya 330S
Mamiya 220P

This camera is fantastic. It is easily portable, dependable, sharp, contrasty, and quiet.

Frustrating to have only twelve exposures.

Although I began photography over twenty years ago with 35mm cameras, even the best I've used don't offer the dazzling slides or negatives that my 3.5E Rolleiflex gives me. This is my favourite all-round camera. Next I want some Rolleinars and a flash and...

Customer Service

None but there are great camera repair places available.

Similar Products Used:

Yashica A.

Outstanding optics. Very ergonometric controls. My camera was built in 1968 and will outlast me. I love it.

One focal lenght. Close ups require add-on lenses that are difficult to find.

A great classic camera. Worth owning.

Similar Products Used:

Mamiya C330, YashicaMat, Hasselblad.