Not German, But… Still a Rollei 35AF
The Rollei 35AF is an exciting revival of the iconic Rollei 35, first introduced in the 1960s, now updated with modern features that appeal to both film photography enthusiasts and newcomers to analog shooting. This new model maintains the compact, robust design of its predecessors but brings autofocus functionality to the classic series for the first time, making it more versatile and user-friendly.
Design & Build Quality
At first glance, the Rollei 35AF retains the familiar sleek, rectangular form factor that made the original a favorite among street photographers and travelers. Its body is composed of a durable combination of metal and high-quality plastic, providing a sturdy feel while remaining portable enough to slip into a jacket pocket. The minimalist, retro aesthetic is a nod to its history, but the updated control layout allows for a smoother shooting experience, balancing nostalgia with modern practicality.
Technical Short List
Lens: The Rollei 35AF comes equipped with a sharp 40mm f/2.8 Sonnar lens, renowned for its impressive optical performance. The lens has five elements in four groups, ensuring excellent contrast and resolution, with minimal distortion. Its f/2.8 aperture is bright enough for shooting in low-light conditions while still offering solid depth-of-field control.
Autofocus: One of the most notable upgrades in this model is its autofocus system, a stark improvement over the manual focus of the original Rollei 35. It employs a contrast-detection AF system that works efficiently for street photography, landscapes, and portraits, enabling faster and more accurate focus, even in tricky lighting conditions.
Exposure Modes: The camera features programmed automatic exposure (AE), simplifying the shooting process for those less familiar with manual settings. However, it still includes the option for manual override, providing greater creative control when needed. An in-built light meter assists with exposure adjustments, ensuring well-balanced images in various lighting environments.
Film Compatibility: The camera uses standard 35mm film, making it accessible and easy to find film stock in various styles (color, black-and-white, etc.). It supports ISO settings from 100 to 800, suitable for various lighting conditions.
Shutter: The shutter speed range of the Rollei 35AF spans from 1/500s to 30 seconds, offering flexibility for both quick snapshots and long exposures.
Viewfinder: The viewfinder has been improved with better parallax correction, offering a more accurate framing experience compared to older models.
Additional Features
The Rollei 35AF also includes a built-in flash, a feature absent in earlier models, which is particularly handy for night photography or fill lighting. Additionally, it has a modern LCD display on the back that shows vital information like film count and battery life.
Conclusion,…Not Bad
First, let me say that ANY 2024 introduction of a film camera will be met with love by us psycho filmies. Even the half frame Pentax 17. But this camera actually did the now defunct German Rolleis proud. With its blend of classic design, modern autofocus, and practical features, the Rollei 35AF is a compelling option for both analog enthusiasts and newcomers. It brings a beloved classic into the 21st century while respecting its legacy, making it perfect for those who want the charm of film with the convenience of autofocus.
Rollei 35AF Website