The Rollei 35 LED is a compact camera from Rollei. It was produced over a two-year period towards the end of the 1970s. The model was positioned on the cheaper side. Production took place in Singapore. A total of around 150,000 pieces were produced.
The "LED" in the name indicates that there is an indicator in the viewfinder. Colored LEDs provide exposure information.
Camera functions
Lens
Despite its small dimensions, the Rollei 35 LED impresses with its ability to produce excellent images. A crucial factor for this is the integrated lens.
The camera is equipped with a fixed lens, more precisely the "Trikotar 40 mm f/3.5". When inactive, this is retracted into the camera housing to maintain its handy size.
The focal length of the lens is 40mm with a maximum aperture of f/3.5. The camera does not offer autofocus or an integrated distance measurement system, so users have to focus manually. To avoid blurry images, a minimum distance of 90 cm from the object is recommended.
Exposure
The Rollei 35 LED uses a measuring cell to automatically determine the appropriate exposure settings. The exposure metering system is optimized for films with a sensitivity of ISO 25 to ISO 1600. Users have the ability to adjust both aperture and exposure time at will, ensuring complete control over shooting parameters.
The aperture values range from f/3.5 to f/22, while the shutter speeds vary between 1/500 second and 1/30 second, providing high flexibility for various shooting scenarios.
Additional functions
The camera offers a special long exposure mode in which the shutter remains open for a variable duration. For such shots or when using the self-timer, for example for group photos or self-portraits, it is advisable to mount the Rollei 35 LED on a tripod. A cable release port is available to prevent camera shake.
To further improve the lighting of the recordings, users can connect external flash units or radio triggers via the hot shoe. This port is located on the bottom of the camera body.
Unfortunately, the camera does not support multiple exposures as it has a special double exposure lock.
Size & Battery
The Rollei 35 LED is a handy device measuring 9.7 x 6 x 3.2 cm and weighing 240 grams. Its compact size contrasts with larger camera types, such as SLR or medium format cameras. It is made of high-quality materials and has a robust metal housing.
The camera requires a PX27 battery px27 to operate, which is currently no longer available. Alternatively, you can use LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*) with an adapter.
Films for the Rollei 35
The Rollei 35 LED relies on the use of 35mm film. This format is characterized by its reliability and simplicity, which is why it is still produced by various manufacturers.
Some of the available films that are compatible are the Kodak Portra 400* and the Kodak T-Max 100*. Both films offer solid results and are well suited for everyday use.
There are of course other well-known producers such as Ilford, Fujifilm, Adox, Rollei and Lomography from Vienna who offer corresponding films.
The color film must be developed using the C-41 process, a service offered by most laboratories. Large drugstore chains in Germany also offer color film development. Developing black and white film is slightly different from the process for color film and can be done at home with the right instructions and chemicals.
The camera produces negatives in 24 mm x 36 mm format. At least 36 shots fit on a 35mm film. The camera does not have an automatic film advance function, so the user must manually advance to the next frame after each shot, assisted by a quick-release lever.
Value of the camera
The value of the Rollei 35 LED varies depending on its condition and functionality. Although a large number of these cameras have been produced, it remains a popular model that can still be used without any problems. Therefore the price is often in the three-digit euro range. The current average used price for a Rollei 35 LED is 152,05 €.
