
( Brand: Rolleiflex ), ( Model: SL35M )
The Rolleiflex SL36M and SL35M are two exquisite medium format cameras from the esteemed Rollei brand, renowned for their exceptional quality and timeless design. These twin gems share a rich heritage and similar characteristics, making them a delight for both beginners and experienced photographers alike.
The Rolleiflex SL36M and SL35M are twin-lens reflex (TLR) cameras, boasting a unique design with their twin lenses and viewfinders. The top lens is the taking lens, while the bottom one serves as the viewfinder, offering a true-to-life 1:1 view of the subject. This design allows for precise framing and focusing, providing an unparalleled level of control over your composition.
Both models feature a 6 x 6 cm (2 3/8 x 2 3/8 inches) medium format film format, which results in incredibly sharp and detailed 6x6 images. The larger film size allows for a higher resolution and better depth of field compared to 35mm film cameras. This makes the SL36M and SL35M perfect for capturing stunning landscapes, portraits, and architectural photography.
The Rolleiflex SL36M and SL35M are equipped with a Leica-threaded M-mount, providing users with a wide range of interchangeable lenses from renowned manufacturers like Leica, Voigtl nder, and Zeiss. This flexibility allows photographers to tailor their camera to their specific photographic needs, from wide-angle landscapes to telephoto portraits.
One of the most notable features of these cameras is their focal-plane shutter, which offers a top speed of 1/500s, ensuring sharp images even in bright sunlight. Additionally, the shutter provides a quiet and discrete operation, making it an ideal choice for candid street photography or wedding photography.
The Rolleiflex SL36M and SL35M are crafted from high-quality materials, including brass and leather. Their robust build ensures that they can withstand the rigors of daily use, making them reliable companions for photographers seeking a camera that can last a lifetime.
In conclusion, the Rolleiflex SL36M and SL35M are two exceptional medium format cameras that offer a unique blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and versatility. Their TLR design, interchangeable lenses, and focal-plane shutter make them an excellent choice for photographers seeking exceptional image quality and creative control.
Rolliflex SL36M and SL35M are two iconic medium format film cameras from Rollei, known for their high-quality optics and classic design. Both models share many similarities, but there are some differences that might influence your decision to buy one over the other.
Pros of Rolleiflex SL36M:1. Medium format image quality: Medium format film provides larger negatives, resulting in higher image resolution and better detail compared to 35mm film.
2. High-quality lenses: Rollei is renowned for its excellent lens optics, and the SL36M comes equipped with a Zeiss Tessar 80mm f/3.5 lens, known for its sharpness and contrast.
3. Twin-lens reflex (TLR) design: The SL36M's TLR viewfinder allows for a clear, accurate, and direct view of the scene, making framing and focusing easier.
4. Interchangeable lenses: The SL36M uses the Rollei Bayonet mount, allowing you to use a variety of lenses to expand your creative possibilities.
5. Built-in light meter: The SL36M has a built-in selenium light meter, which can help you set appropriate exposure levels without the need for an external meter.
Cons of Rolleiflex SL36M:1. Size and weight: Rolleiflex TLR cameras are larger and heavier than 35mm cameras, making them less portable for some users.
2. Manual focus: The SL36M uses manual focus, which may require more time and practice to achieve sharp images, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
3. Limited shutter speeds: The SL36M has a maximum shutter speed of 1/500s, which might not be suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects.
4. Film cost: Medium format film is generally more expensive than 35mm film, which can increase the overall cost of shooting.
5. Limited modern features: The SL36M is an older model, which means it lacks some modern features like autofocus, electronic shutter, or video capabilities.
Pros of Rolleiflex SL35M:1. Similar image quality to SL36M: The SL35M uses the same medium format film as the SL36M, resulting in high-resolution and detailed images.
2. Reduced size and weight: Compared to the SL36M, the SL35M has a smaller body and is lighter, making it more portable for some users.
3. Less expensive: Due to its smaller size and older design, the SL35M is generally less expensive than the SL36M.
Cons of Rolleiflex SL35M:1. Fixed lens: The SL35M offers a fixed 75mm f/3.5 lens, which may limit your creative flexibility compared to the SL36M's interchangeable lens system.
2. Less user-friendly viewfinder: The SL35M's viewfinder might not be as clear and accurate as the SL36M's, which could make framing and focusing more challenging.
3. Limited shutter speeds: Like the SL36M, the SL35M has a maximum shutter speed of 1/500s, which might not be suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Conclusion:Both the Rolleiflex SL36M and SL35M are excellent choices for photographers seeking high-quality medium format image results. The SL36M's interchangeable lens system and larger, clearer viewfinder may appeal to users who want more creative flexibility and a better user experience. On the other hand, the SL35M's smaller size, lower price, and fixed lens might be more suitable for photographers who are looking for a portable and less expensive medium format camera.
Recommendation:Consider your specific needs, preferences, and budget when deciding between the Rolleiflex SL36M and SL35M. Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on your individual priorities. If you value portability and a lower price, the SL35M might be the better option for you. If you want more creative flexibility, a clearer viewfinder, and are willing to pay a higher price, then the SL36M could be the more suitable choice.
Also have the manuals. I'll include the bag but its a bit old and crusty. But it does flash when connected to the camera. The flash works but attachment foot is broken.
The camera appears to be in very good excellent condition.