Tele-Rolleiflex

The telephoto TLR — 135mm reach in a Rolleiflex body.

1959–1974 6x6 on 120 film Made in Braunschweig, Germany
Tele-Rolleiflex twin-lens reflex camera

Photo: George Rex from London, England · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Source

Specifications

Taking LensCarl Zeiss Sonnar 135mm f/4
Viewing LensHeidosmat 135mm f/4
Lens Elements5
ShutterSynchro-Compur
Shutter Speeds1s - 1/500s + B
Light MeterNone
Filter MountSeries VII
FocusingCrank with auto film stop
  • Telephoto TLR
  • 135mm Sonnar lens
  • Response to Mamiya interchangeable lens system
  • Rare and collectible

History

The Tele-Rolleiflex was a specialized camera with a 135mm Sonnar lens, offering a longer focal length than any other TLR. Its narrower field of view made it ideal for portraits and candid photography from a distance.

Cultural Significance

Extremely rare and highly collectible — one of the most sought-after TLRs.

Innovations

  • Only production telephoto TLR
  • 135mm Sonnar lens

Collector Notes

Rare telephoto variant. Highly sought after by collectors. Portrait specialist.

Current Market Prices (USD)

ConditionPrice Range
Poor$1500 – $2500
Average$2500 – $3500
Good$3500 – $5000
Excellent$5000 – $7000
Mint$7000 – $10000

Source: eBay 2024

Manuals & Documentation

Shoot with your Tele-Rolleiflex

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.