Rolleiflex TLR under 1k with meter?

aldenfender

aldenfender

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Never shot with a rolleiflex tlr befor, thinking about getting one. Would like to know if its possible to get one under $1000.00 with a working meter? What models would likely be the best to go for... anything I need to avoid?

Thanks.
 
Easy, I got a 3.5E Planar, working meter, £400 GBP.

I sort of agree with aperture64, a TLR might not be right for you. I've had mine a week or so, and I'm yet to be convinced. Whilst very portable for an MF camera, I do find it odd to use, and not sure I'll get used to it. Conversely, when I got home, I had a play with the M3, and it feels extremely natural in comparison.

I probably second the meter advice too, I was hung up on getting a meter, but in reality, even if it works, how accurate is it? Also, handheld meters are cheap and easy, or if you shoot negative film, just shoot sunny 16.

On the plus side, if you like how they work, they are beautiful cameras, portable, not that heavy and very distinctive.
 
Yes, the meters are usually unreliable now (if not dead) unless they've received fairly recent attention.

But quite a few models should be available for under $1,000: e.g. the Rolleiflex T, which can often be found in very good condition, or several of the older E versions.

Also, don't despise the later Rolleicords such as the Va or Vb: which aren't metered, but have excellent xenar lenses and build quality of a similar standard to the 'flexes.

Regards,
D.
 
I've got to agree with everything said thus far - both on model and the TLR thing in general. There's a perfect working Yashica-MAT 124G sitting on the top of a cabinet at home, incredibly easy to both grab and carry. And it usually sits there while I open up the cabinet and pull out the massive Pentax 67II. Both make great images, and the TLR is much more hand-holdable, but the 'normal' viewfinder just works for me. If you haven't used a TLR before, I'd suggest starting cheaper.

I'd even go so far as to say the majority of the benefits to be had from a TLR can be had with any reasonably 'good' example, with seriously diminishing gains left as you move up the line into 'better' and more expensive territory. Exceptions for the wide and tele cameras, those are fairly special beasts.
 
My meter works but I prefer using a handheld meter for accuracy, on board meter for when I'm flying by the seat of my pants.

TLR's are funny things, alot of people don't like composing with a waist level finder because the image is reversed, I don't have that problem. But you can get a poro prism that slides in to where the waist level finder (WLF) is, then you raise it to eye level and compose like you would with any other camera.

I would also look for a Planar or Xenotar lens, though some prefer the look of the Tessar, I love shooting mine wide open, it's f2.8-f4 for me most of the time.

Here is some reading while you ponder your next investment ;)
http://www.rolleiclub.com/cameras/tlr/info/early_tlr.shtml

Todd
 
Rolleiflex went out of business in the 1980's or to be more exact they company was purchased. I believe the last model under the new company was the GX. Rolleiflex 2.8F (1960-1981) with either a Planar or Xenotar lens has a meter. The Rolleiflex 3.5F (1960-1976) with either a Planar or Xenotar lens also has a meter. Neither lens is preferable. The Rolleicord Vb (1962-1977) has a f3.5 Schneider- Xenar but no meter. Those are the last true Rolleis that you will find. Condition is important on these cameras. If you can look for one with a shade/hood as that item can be expensive. The old leather strap is something to store on a shelf. Get a new strap for under $20. Rollei prices have been rising. Rolleis are the best in the TLR catagory.
 
It's all been said but here are my 2c. I use Rolleiflex or Yashicamats for 75% of my film use. I love the square and also love using a Waist level finder. TLR is good for me it may be for you also. Try one before spending a grand. Also the meter in the Rolleiflex that will be under a grand will not be worth a damn IMHO. If you are used to TTL coupled metering forget it. The best inexpensive option for coupled metering in a TLR will be a Yashicamat. I have a 124G and it works remarkably well in good light. In poor light (dimmer than evening) or complexly lit landscapes you need to use your head. Better still a modern handheld meter. It is not a TTL meter in this camera but rather, a diode on the face of the camera. You could buy 3 of them for $1K. A good place to start. My suggestion however is to skip the onboard meter altogether and get a nice Yashicamat, Minolta, Rolleicord, Ricoh... whatever and a handheld meter. Spend $200-$400 on the camera and some money on a CLA or new Brightscree. Enjoy!
 
My first TLR was a Yashica MAT 124 G. I loved that camera. By the time I got my Rolleiflex, I had been using a Super Press 23 for a while, and I haven't been able to get excited by a TLR since. But as I said, when the Yashica was the first MF, which was the real reason I got it, I was very happy with the bigger than 35mm negative. I was also very satisfied with the results in genera. They also have light meters which may still be working. It was how I used mine most of the time. With the Super Press, and my folders, I have to use a hand held meter, and I don't mind that a bit. Very easy to do.

All that to ask why you want an expensive Rolleiflex when something less expensive is likely to give you quality you will be happy with? BTW, the Rolleiflex is a bit heavier than the Yashica as I recall. I was surprised at its weight.
 
Look for a YashicaMat 124G with a working meter. They can be found for between $200-300. Shoot a few rolls and if you think TLR is your thing just sell it and buy a Rolleiflex. Most people recommend Planars and Xenotars but I think Tessar is the sharpest.
 
I generally prefer to have a meter in camera, but if it is not coupled and not even a TTL I rather take my tiny, but very good Digisix instead. TLR is anyhow not a camera for fasdt shooting, so I would not (and did not - I had a Rolleiflex T for 2 years) miss the meter.

The only Rolleiflex cameras with TTL meters are FX and GX (and probably also FW and FT), but those are way above $1000 .. unfortunately.
 
I have a 3.5E Xenotar and it has a meter, too. Of course, the meter is useless, for reasons already stated. Get a 3.5E without the meter and buy a working second-hand meter. That's what I do.
 
I agree with the meter not important posse, An external meter of a later date is more accurate, and useful (reflective, incident, spot etc). Built in selenium meters may work after all these years, then again they may not. Not the best of meters even when they work. And when it does pack it in, you will start letting the fact that the camera no longer is fully functional annoy you. I got hold of a 2.8E3 without meter. In fact none of my MF cameras have meters, come to think of it.
 
If you buy a Yashica first, then decide that you want a Rolleiflex, you'll kick yourself, for not buying the Rollei sooner. So just buy a Rolleiflex, you know it's what you want, because it's what you've asked about.

3.5 instead of 2.8; Xenotar, instead of Planar; C or D model, instead of E or F; these things will all save $$$, but won't sacrifice quality in any way. Forget about the built in meter and just buy the cleanest, working 2.8 or 3.5 Xenotar or Planar you can find, and live happily ever after. A clean C or D model has much to recommend it and they are arguably prettier than the later types (watch the lens coatings though).
Regards,
Brett
 
Its not easy to find one that is in working condition flawless...and often if u find one in that condition, the prices are quite ridiculous.

Having said that, im still searching for one..even a 3.5 instead of the 2.8, but still cant find a working and nice one, priced nicely. Searching on ebay is just too risky. I got a few TLR like minolta autocord which posted as pristine but turned out to be crappy...so i had enough of surprises..

If anyone has a nice rolly to let go or can direct me to a reputable seller selling it, will be grateful:)
 
I grew up with a Rolleiflex MX Type 1 with a 3.5 Tessar. Bought it in 1955 or so --used. I still have it. It works perfectly. Been overhauled once. But I rarely use it because of the expense of processing 120 film. I don't like messing with chemicals any more. They go for $300 to $400 most places. No meter but most of the Rollei meters I have seen are off. A handheld meter is much better. The lens is extremely sharp. The last serious stuff I shot with it was marine -- pix of yachts and it was great for that. I even bought the Rolleinar 35mm adapter but I am I am mostly digital these days.

There is nothing like a Rolleiflex if you want to try a TLR. And you don't have to spend an arm and a leg these days. I keep mine for sentimental reasons but may sell it soon.

Good luck and tell us how you make out.
 
I am a big fan of Krikor Maralian's repair work on Rolleis. I have been to his small shop in NJ, and he has Rolleis for sale (you can ask through his website, krimarphoto.com). I wouldn't be surprised if he has Planar and Xenotar Rolleis available in your price range.

He has told me that new replacement meter assemblies are no longer available -- a shame but not a surprise. I've found the selenium meters on Rolleis can be pretty darn good, but for sure, a handheld meter is going to do a better job, even a humble Gossen Pilot, also a selenium meter. So don't get too hung up on a metered Rollei -- even one with a dead meter is a great camera.
 
You're better off w/ a hand held meter, and I would recommend that you try a lower priced TLR and see how you like it. TLR's are an acquired taste for most people. There's a lot of things to be aware of on these before you buy, but if you focus on buying from someone who has actually used the camera and/or will take a return you'll be fine. Maybe try a Yashica or something cheap first. You might find this link interesting, and it's not a lot of reading.

http://www.holgablog.com/2009/08/14/the-massive-guide-to-tlr-cameras-part-1-the-rundown/
 
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