Wide-Rolleiflex (Rolleiwide)
The wide-angle TLR — 55mm for expansive views.
Photo: George Rex from London, England · CC BY-SA 2.0 · Source
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Specifications
| Taking Lens | Carl Zeiss Distagon 55mm f/4 |
| Viewing Lens | Heidosmat 55mm f/4 |
| Lens Elements | 8 |
| Shutter | Synchro-Compur |
| Shutter Speeds | 1s - 1/500s + B |
| Light Meter | None |
| Filter Mount | Series VIII |
| Focusing | Crank with auto film stop |
- Wide-angle TLR
- 55mm Distagon lens
- Very rare
- Only ~4000 made
History
The Wide-Rolleiflex (Rolleiwide) featured a 55mm Distagon lens, offering a significantly wider field of view than standard TLRs. It was particularly popular for architectural and landscape photography.
Notable Photographers
Diane Arbus was known to favor this model for her distinctive portraits.
Cultural Significance
Rare and valuable — commands premium prices among collectors.
Innovations
- Widest production TLR
- 55mm Distagon lens
Collector Notes
Extremely rare wide-angle variant. Very collectible and expensive.
Current Market Prices (USD)
| Condition | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Poor | $3000 – $5000 |
| Average | $5000 – $7000 |
| Good | $7000 – $10000 |
| Excellent | $10000 – $14000 |
| Mint | $14000 – $20000 |
Source: eBay 2024
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Manuals & Documentation
Photo Galleries
Shoot with your Wide-Rolleiflex (Rolleiwide)
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