The Rollei 35 Classic Royal Urushi is a compact camera. It was introduced in the mid-1990s. It is a special edition of the Rollei 35 Classic. It was produced in Germany by Rollei Fototechnic in a small edition.
Camera functions
Lens
Although it is characterized by its small dimensions, the Rollei 35 Classic Royal Urushi allows you to take brilliant photos. This is mainly thanks to their high-quality lens.
This 35mm camera comes with a built-in lens. This is the "Carl Zeiss Oberkochen Sonnar 1:2.8 f=40mm". When not in use, the lens retracts into the housing to maintain its compact shape.
With a focal length of 40mm and a maximum aperture of f/2.8, the user has to focus manually as the camera has neither autofocus nor distance measurement. It is advisable to maintain a minimum distance of 90 cm from the subject to avoid blurring.
Exposure
Thanks to integrated measuring cells, the camera automatic system can determine the optimal exposure settings. The exposure meter is designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 25 to ISO 1600. Users can individually select aperture and exposure time, giving them full control over the camera.
You have the option to choose between aperture values from f/2.8 to f/22 and shutter speeds from 1/500 second to 1/2 second, which means the camera is equipped for various shooting scenarios.
Additional functions
A special mode allows long exposures in which the shutter remains open for a variable period of time. When using bulb mode or longer exposure times, it is recommended to mount the camera on a tripod.
Using a tripod can also be useful when using the self-timer for group photos or self-portraits. To avoid camera shake, a connection for a cable remote shutter release is available.
To optimize exposure, external flash units or radio triggers can be connected via the hot shoe interface. This is located on the bottom of the housing.
Double exposures are not possible with this camera because it has a special lock for multiple exposures.
Battery
To function, it requires a PX625 battery (eBay / Amazon*). Since these batteries are no longer available, Weincell batteries (eBay / Amazon*) can be used as replacements.
Films for the Rollei 35
The Rollei 35 Classic Royal Urushi relies on 35mm films. The format remains popular due to its reliability and simplicity, which is why some manufacturers continue to produce films for this format.
The films still available today that are compatible with the Rollei 35 Classic Royal Urushi include the Kodak Gold 200* and the Ilford Delta 100*. Both films offer high quality results and are well suited for everyday shooting.
There are many other manufacturers that provide suitable film material, including Foma, Fujifilm, Adox, Rollei and Lomography from Vienna.
Color film must be developed using the C-41 process, a service offered by most photo labs. Some large drugstore chains in Germany also offer color film development. Developing black and white film is slightly different from color film and can also be done at home with proper instructions and chemicals.
The negatives measure 24mm x 36mm, allowing at least 36 shots to fit on 135-36 film. The camera does not provide automatic film advance, so the photographer must manually advance to the next frame. A quick release lever is available for this.
