The Rollei 35 TE is a 35mm camera from the legendary German brand. It was manufactured in Singapore from 1980 and is the successor to the Rollei 35 T. Around 120,000 units were produced.
The biggest innovation is an exposure display in the viewfinder. Three colored LEDs indicate overexposure, underexposure and the correct exposure.
The camera was offered in three variants (Black, Chrome & Aluminum). The aluminum version is 25 grams lighter than the other two models.
Camera functions
Lens
Although it is quite small, the Rollei 35 TE allows you to take first-class photos. The lens is an important factor.
This compact camera is equipped with a fixed lens, more precisely a "Carl Zeiss Oberkochen Tessar 1:3.5 f=40mm". It was produced by Rollei under license.
The lens has a 40mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f/3.5. Autofocus or a rangefinder are not available on this model. When not in use, the lens can be retracted into the housing, which preserves its handiness.
Focusing is done manually and to avoid blurring, a minimum distance of 90 cm from the object should be maintained.
Exposure
The camera uses measuring cells to determine the appropriate exposure settings. The integrated exposure meter is suitable for films with a light sensitivity of ISO 25 to ISO 1600. The aperture and exposure time can be adjusted as desired, giving the photographer full control over the camera.
The aperture offers a range between f/3.5 and f/22, while shutter speeds vary between 1/500 second and 1/2 second. This ensures a wide range of possibilities for various shooting situations.
Additional functions
A special mode on this camera allows long exposures, with the shutter remaining open for a variable duration. When using bulb mode or long exposure times, it is recommended to mount the Rollei 35 TE on a tripod.
Even when using the self-timer, for example for group photos or self-portraits, it makes sense to mount the camera on a tripod. To avoid wobbling, there is a connection for a cable release.
The camera also supports the connection of external flash units or radio triggers via the hot shoe interface, thus optimizing the lighting conditions. This port is located on the bottom of the case.
Multiple exposures are not possible with this model as it has a special lock against double exposures.
Size & Battery
With dimensions of 9.7 x 6 x 3.2 cm and a weight of 330 grams, the Rollei 35 TE is remarkably compact, especially compared to DSLRs or medium format cameras. It is made of high-quality materials and has a metal housing.
To power the camera you need a PX27 battery px27, but this is no longer available. As an alternative, you can also use LR44 batteries (eBay / Amazon*) with an adapter.
Films for the Rollei 35 TE
The Rollei 35 TE does not work without photo films. According to the manual, it requires 35mm film, which is still preferred by many due to its simplicity and reliability, prompting some manufacturers to continue producing this film format.
Currently available films that are compatible with the Rollei 35 TE are the Kodak Gold 200* and the Kodak T-Max 100*. Both films are known for providing good quality footage and are reportedly good for everyday use.
There are of course other brands that offer suitable films, including Ilford, Fujifilm, Adox, Rollei and Lomography from Vienna.
The color film must be developed using the C-41 process, a service offered by most laboratories and some large drugstores in Germany. The developing process for black and white film is a little different, but it can be done at home with the right instructions and chemicals.
Value of the camera
How much you have to pay for a Rollei 35 TE depends of course on the condition, scope of delivery and functionality. The average price is currently 243,39 €.
