Rollei 35 S vs SE meter

[awilder]

I came across a pdf version of the instruction booklet covering the 35TE/SE and was surprised to learn that those models used a CdS meter instead of the silicone cell even though the readout is a LED instead of an meter needle from the prior models. I guess that partly explains the identical meter sensitivity range. However based on the results with my Rollei 35, it is possible to accurately meter with the needle still inside the red zone as long and there is just enough light to move the needle away off the tiny hole (zero indicator with no battery or light) on the far left. All you need do is line the "lollypop" arm with the white needle. Of course, this assumes the meter is still accurately calibrated at the low end of the scale as is my example. This effectively adds an extra stop sensitivity over the SE/TE which simply let you know your outside the metering range with both red LEDs flashing. It's a minor benifit but an extra stop sensitivity is better than nothing with it's comparitively poor meter sensitivity in modest available light.

 

[SteveM]

I've used my 35 SE mainly for slide film and the meter has never let me down. Since daylight shooting is my mainstay, it's never been a problem. However, you're right about the low light sensitivity being limited. Since I started using it for B&W a few years ago I've seen more of the double red lights flashing, which indicates the light is out of the meter's range. In those cases I just guess and handhold - the tiny size of the camera and leaf shutter allow quite slow handheld shots to be taken. So, no real problem. Some people prefer the top mount match needle meter of the 35 S, but I've never found the LED's in the viewfinder to be a problem. I'll never sell this little gem, it's a mechanical wonder, incredibly reliable.

Steve

 

[Edward C. Zimmermann]

I came across a pdf version of the instruction booklet covering the 35TE/SE and was surprised to learn that those models used a CdS meter instead of the silicone cell even though the readout is a LED instead of an meter needle from the prior models.

The SE (as well as Rollei 35 Classics and the new incarnation of the 35) has the best meter that they got. Its still a compartively primitive reflected meter.

I guess that partly explains the identical meter sensitivity range. However based on the results with my Rollei 35, it is possible to accurately meter with the needle still inside the red zone as long and there is just enough light to move the needle away off the tiny hole (zero indicator with no battery or light) on the far left.

Voodoo. These are (and I repeat) comparatively primitive reflected light meters. The same aproach, however, that one applies with the S is also possible with the SE. Its actually faster since the CdS cell responds quickly and one sees the meter readings in the viewfinder.

This effectively adds an extra stop sensitivity over the SE/TE.

That is absurd. While both the S and SE cover a similar ISO range (up to 1600) the S is less linear, has inferior response curve and slower reaction.

 

[PMCC]

Don't mince words man, just spit it out. We're all big boys here.

 

[awilder]

Quote:

"That is absurd. While both the S and SE cover a similar ISO range (up to 1600) the S is less linear, has inferior response curve and slower reaction"

I have to disagree with Edward on linearity and response as my experience differs from his. The S is extremely linear when proprerly calibrated. Mine agrees with my Sekonic digital spot meter down to at least 6 EV to an accuracy of +/- 0.25 stop across the entire metering range. The trick of course is to accurately calibrate the meter by removing the top (not very difficult) and adjust the 2 potentiometers located on the back right corner and right side. One controls meter measurement and the other controls it's linearity. A little time consuming but gratifying once done. The SE readout is easier to see in poor light and doesn't require you to look away from the finder but the S can be coaxed to measure a little below the standard meter range by at least 1 stop.

 

[kram]

I wish the 35SE had a bit more sensitivity at the lower end. This is the main thing that puts me off using this camera more often. However, build quality is fab.

 

[awilder]

That's an unfortunate flaw in their design, however the SE does have a more heavily centered meter pattern than the older cameras making it seem slightly more sensitive.