Rolleiflex 3.5F

Lighter than the 2.8F with equally stunning optics.

1958–1981 6x6 on 120 film Made in Braunschweig, Germany
Rolleiflex 3.5F twin-lens reflex camera

Photo: Michele Campeotto from Italia · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Source

Specifications

Taking LensCarl Zeiss Planar 75mm f/3.5 or Schneider Xenotar 75mm f/3.5
Viewing LensHeidosmat 75mm f/2.8
Lens Elements5
ShutterSynchro-Compur
Shutter Speeds1s - 1/500s + B
Light MeterSelenium (built-in)
Filter MountBay I
FocusingCrank with auto film stop
Weight1100g
  • Slightly lighter than 2.8F
  • Excellent optics
  • Built-in selenium meter
  • Interchangeable screens
  • 23 year production run

History

The 3.5F shares nearly identical construction with its f/2.8 sibling but with a slightly smaller, lighter f/3.5 lens. Many photographers prefer it for the reduced weight and the fact that Bay I accessories are cheaper and more plentiful than Bay III.

Notable Photographers

Chosen by photographers who valued the lighter weight for street and travel work.

Innovations

  • Built-in selenium meter
  • Interchangeable screens

Collector Notes

Premium 3.5 model. Lighter than 2.8F with comparable quality. Bay I filters are cheaper.

Current Market Prices (USD)

ConditionPrice Range
Poor$450 – $700
Average$800 – $1100
Good$1100 – $1500
Excellent$1500 – $2100
Mint$2100 – $3000

Source: eBay 2024

Articles & Reviews

Shoot with your Rolleiflex 3.5F

metergeist is a free light meter app and film roll tracker built for TLR and medium format photographers. Meter light, load film, track every frame.