The Revueflex SL is a SLR camera. It was produced by VEB Pentacon in the GDR in the 1970s. There it was called “Praktica Super TL” and was part of the Praktica super TL model series.
In West Germany this model was sold under the name “Revueflex SL” by Foto Quelle. Quelle was at that time one of the largest mail-order companies in the Federal Republic of Germany and sold photo products under the trademark “Revue”.
The lenses of the Revueflex SL are interchangeable. Lenses with an M42 thread can be used with the camera. The camera is often used with the Auto Revuenon 1:1.8/50. The camera does not have an autofocus, the lens is focused manually.
The M42 thread is a standardized, manufacturer-independent lens mount for interchangeable lenses. The M42 thread was developed as a successor to the M39 thread. The major manufacturers of M42 lenses were Pentax, Zeiss, Pentacon and KMZ.
The Revueflex SL features a built-in light meter. Exposure is determined by SLR when measured through the lens (TTL). The shutter speed and aperture can be freely selected. The camera comes with a bulb mode. The PC flash socket allows the use of an external flash with the camera.
Films for the Revueflex SL
Without 35mm films, the Revueflex SL does not work. 35mm films are still being produced and are developed by most photo laboratories without any problems. Nice films for black-and-white or color images are the Ilford XP2 Super* and the Kodak Portra 400*.
The color negative film is developed in the C-41 development process. The C-41 process is offered by almost every photo lab.
The Revueflex SL features is a thread for a mounting a normal tripod. There is also a connector for a cable release. The power supply comes from one Varta V 625 (eBay / Amazon*).
The production of the Revueflex SL was ended and today you can only buy it used. The prices for a copy of the camera vary depending on its condition. However, you should usually be able to find them for between 25 and 50 euros.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 30 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Power supply | 1x Varta 625 battery |
| Company name of the brand | Foto Quelle |
| Manufacturer | VEB Pentacon |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| Estimated value / Used price | 50,95 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 24 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 57,28 Euro (61.70 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 57,98 Euro (61.70 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 60,25 Euro (64.94 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Revueflex SL
Is the Revueflex SL a digital or film camera?
The Revueflex SL is a film camera. It uses 35mm film, which is still readily available and developed by most photo labs. You'll need to load film into it to take pictures.
How do I focus the lens on this camera?
The Revueflex SL has manual focus. You need to manually adjust the lens to achieve sharp focus. There's no autofocus feature on this camera.
What kind of lenses can I use with my Revueflex SL?
The Revueflex SL uses M42 lenses. This is a common mount, so you'll find many compatible lenses from various manufacturers. Many M42 lenses are also quite affordable.
Does the camera have a built-in light meter?
Yes, the Revueflex SL has a built-in TTL (through-the-lens) light meter to help you determine the correct exposure settings. You can then adjust the aperture and shutter speed manually.
Where can I buy this camera today?
Since production has ended, you can only buy the Revueflex SL used. Online marketplaces and camera stores specializing in vintage equipment are good places to look. Prices usually range from 25 to 50 euros.