The iconic Rolleiflex was introduced by Franke & Heidecke in 1929. The first model, later known as the Rolleiflex Original, quickly earned a reputation as one of the most respected camera lines in the world of photography, especially among professional photographers.
As the company’s first Twin-Lens Reflex (TLR) model, the Rolleiflex Original featured two lenses—one for capturing the image and another for viewing and focusing. While it wasn’t the first twin-lens reflex camera, it played a pivotal role in popularizing the TLR design. Photographers would compose their shots by looking down into a waist-level viewfinder, offering a unique shooting experience. Combined with the square 6×6 cm format and exceptional lens quality, the Rolleiflex Original quickly set itself apart from other cameras of the time.
The Rolleiflex soon became synonymous with craftsmanship and innovation, marking the beginning of a successful line of TLR cameras that remained in production until 2014.
Born from a passion for pairing top-tier optics with the art of photography, the Rolleiflex Original stands as a cornerstone in the evolution of camera design and imaging technology. While it may not be as collectible as later models like the Rolleiflex 2.8, the Original holds a special place as the pioneering camera that inspired nearly a century of similar designs, laying the foundation for the enduring Rolleiflex legacy.
Rolleiflex Original
Manufacturer: Franke & Heidecke
Production: 1928-32
Type: Twin Lens Reflex
Media: Kodak 122 Autographic Roll Film – can be converted to 120
Lens: Zeiss Tessar 1:4.5/7.5 cm
Focus: TLR
Accessories: 28.5 mm push-on filters, shutter release cable
Collectability:
On a scale of 1 to 100, the Rolleiflex Original scores close to 90 for collectibility. As the first model in a lineage of cameras renowned for their quality, it has firmly cemented its place in photographic history. The Rolleiflex remains a classic among collectors, its iconic status and exceptional performance continuing to inspire both vintage camera enthusiasts and contemporary photographers alike. Today, well-preserved examples of the Rolleiflex Original can fetch high prices, further reflecting its lasting appeal and timeless reputation.
Photographer: John Baltz
John is a seasoned professional with nearly 30 years in photography. A native to Northwest Arkansas, John’s first interest in photography began with collecting cameras as a child from antique markets around town. Later, John received a degree in Computer Science from the University of Arkansas. It is his strong knowledge in digital photography, along with a love for the the history of photography that provides for a unique sense of creativity driving many of his projects.
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