The Rollei 35 is a viewfinder camera for the 35mm format. It was introduced by Rollei in the mid-1960s and is the beginning of the successful Rollei 35 series. In total over 2,000,000 pieces were produced. This model was produced in Germany.
One of the camera’s biggest selling points was its size. The camera is about the size of a cigarette pack and fits in almost every pocket and handbag. Especially in a time with heavy medium format cameras or SLR cameras, it was a popular choice for vacations and everyday life.
Camera functions
Lens
Despite its compact size, the Rollei 35 delivers high-quality images. One of the main reasons for this is the lens.
The 35mm camera comes with a fixed lens. This model is the “Carl Zeiss Oberkochen Tessar 1:3.5 f=40mm”. When the camera is not in use, it is recessed into the housing to maintain its compact size.
The lens has a focal length of 40 mm and a maximum aperture of f/3.5. There is no autofocus or a distance measuring device on the 35mm camera. You have to focus on the subject by hand. To avoid blurry images, a minimum distance of 90 cm from the subject should be maintained.
Exposure
By using measuring cells, the camera electronics can determine the correct exposure settings. The exposure meter was designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 25 to ISO 1600. The aperture and exposure time can be freely selected. This means you have full control over the camera.
You can choose between f/3.5 and f/22 for the aperture. The shutter speed can be selected from 1/500 second to 1/2 second. This means you are prepared for most shooting situations.
Additional functions
A special mode on the camera allows you to take long exposures. The shutter remains open for a variable period of time. If you use bulb mode or a longer exposure time, you should attach the camera to a tripod.
Even if you use the self-timer, for example for group photos or self-portraits, it can make sense to attach the Rollei 35 to a tripod. To avoid camera shake, there is a connection for a cable release.
The camera allows the user to connect external speedlights or wireless triggers via the hot shoe port to optimize exposure. The hot shoe is located on the bottom of the case.
Multiple exposures are not possible with the camera. It has a special lock for double exposures.
Size & Battery
According to the instructions, the dimensions of the compact 35mm camera are 9.7 x 6 x 3.2 cm. It weighs 370 grams. This makes it very compact, especially compared to SLR cameras or medium format cameras. It is made of high-quality material and comes with a metal housing.
The camera requires 1x PX625 battery (eBay / Amazon*). These batteries are no longer offered. You can use the Weincell batteries (eBay / Amazon*) as a replacement.
Films for the Rollei 35
Nothing works with the Rollei 35 without photo film. According to the instructions, the camera needs 35mm film. The simplicity and reliability of the 35mm format still make it a popular film format, which is why some manufacturers continue to produce for this format.
Possible films for the Rollei 35 that can still be purchased today are the Kodak Portra 400* and the Kodak T-Max 100* . The two films deliver decent recordings and, according to test reports, are well suited for everyday use.
Of course, there are many other manufacturers of suitable film material. Examples include Ilford, Fujifilm, Adox, Rollei and Lomography from Vienna.
The color film must be developed using the C-41 process. This development process is offered by most laboratories. A selection of large drugstores in Germany also offer the development of color films. The development steps for black and white film are slightly different than for color film. With the right instructions and photo chemistry, it can also be developed at home.
The camera negatives measure 24mm x 36mm. At least 36 shots fit on a normal film. There is no automatic film advance option in the camera, meaning the photographer has to manually advance to the next frame each time. There is a quick release lever for this.
Value of the camera
The value of the Rollei 35 obviously depends on its condition and functionality. Although many copies of the camera were produced, it is still a very popular model today that can still be used without any problems. Therefore, you will usually still pay a three-digit euro amount for the camera. The current average price for a Rollei 35 is 228,81 Euro.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Quick release lever |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens name | Carl Zeiss Oberkochen Tessar 1:3.5 f=40mm |
| Focal length | 40 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 90 cm / 2.952 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Filter thread | 30.5 mm |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1/2 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 1600 |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x PX625 battery |
| Size | 9,7 x 6 x 3,2 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 3.82 x 2.36 x 1.26 inches |
| Weight | 370 Grams |
| Country of production | Germany |
| End of production | 1975 |
| Production duration | 8 years |
| Number of units produced | 527000 units |
| Estimated value / Used price | 228,81 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 98 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 302,56 Euro (326.88 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 305,60 Euro (330.13 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 252,38 Euro (272.76 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Rollei 35
What is the approximate size of the Rollei 35, and what makes this a significant feature?
The Rollei 35 is about the size of a cigarette pack, making it exceptionally portable. This compact design was a major selling point, especially when compared to the larger cameras of its time.
Does this compact camera have an autofocus feature, and how is the focus adjusted?
No, the Rollei 35 lacks autofocus. Focus is adjusted manually, requiring the user to manually focus on the subject before taking a picture. A minimum focusing distance of 90 cm should be observed.
What type of lens does the Rollei 35 utilize, and what are its key specifications?
It features a fixed Carl Zeiss Oberkochen Tessar 1:3.5 f=40mm lens. This lens retracts into the body when not in use, contributing to the camera's small size. It offers a 35mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/3.5.
What kind of film does this camera use, and what are some examples of compatible films?
The Rollei 35 uses standard 35mm film. Popular choices readily available today include Kodak Portra 400 and Kodak T-Max 100, though many other brands also offer compatible films.
What is the power source for the Rollei 35, and what are any considerations regarding battery availability?
It requires a PX625 battery, which is now discontinued. However, Weincell batteries are a suitable and readily available alternative.