The Revueflex TL 25 is an SLR camera. It was introduced by Foto Quelle in the 80s. It was built in the GDR by Pentacon and its functions are identical to the Praktica MTL 5.
The Revueflex TL 25 has the M42 thread. The lenses are interchangeable. M42 lenses are attached to the camera by a screw thread. The focus of the lens has to be adjusted manually. There is no autofocus system. The camera has a metal focal plane shutter.
The lens thread was developed by Carl Zeiss in Jena. Zeiss, Pentacon and Pentax, among others, were major producers of M42 lenses.
The camera comes with a light meter. As with most SLR cameras, exposure is metered through the lens. The exposure time and aperture can be selected by the photographer. A Bulb setting is available on the Revueflex TL 25. With the Bulb setting, the remains open as long as the photographer holds the shutter button down. Per Hot Shoe, an external flash can be used with the 35mm camera.
Films for the Revueflex TL 25
The Revueflex TL 25 is designed for the 35mm format. 35mm films are still produced by various manufacturers. Possible films for the Revueflex TL 25 are the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color photos and the Kodak T-Max 100* for B&W images.
The development of the color film is the C-41 process. This development process is offered by most laboratories. The B&W film must be processed in a suitable black and white developer and must not be processed in C-41 chemistry.
The exposure area of the Revueflex TL 25 is 24 mm x 36 mm. With this exposure range, at least 36 photos usually fit on one film (135-36). The photographer must advance the film manually.
The 35 mm camera has a thread for a tripod. In addition, there is a connection for a cable release and a self-timer. The Revueflex TL 25 is no longer in production. Depending on the state of preservation, the cost of the 35mm camera varies.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | M42 lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Company name of the brand | Foto Quelle |
| Manufacturer | VEB Pentacon |
| Country of production | GDR (German Democratic Republic) |
| Estimated value / Used price | 52,91 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 11 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 60,69 Euro (64.94 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 58,58 Euro (62.78 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 51,85 Euro (55.20 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Revueflex TL 25
Is the Revueflex TL 25 an automatic camera?
No, the Revueflex TL 25 is a manual focus camera. It doesn't have autofocus. You adjust the focus and aperture manually, offering more control over your shots.
What kind of lenses can I use with this camera?
The Revueflex TL 25 uses M42 lenses. These are interchangeable lenses that screw onto the camera. Many manufacturers produced M42 lenses, so you have a wide selection.
How do I take pictures with it, what's the process?
You manually set the aperture and shutter speed. The built-in light meter helps you determine the correct settings. Then, you compose your shot and press the shutter release.
Can I use a flash with the camera?
Yes, the Revueflex TL 25 has a hot shoe for external flash units. This allows you to use a flash to take pictures in low-light conditions.
What film size does this old camera use?
The Revueflex TL 25 is designed for 35mm film, also known as 135 film. This is a standard film size, still available from many manufacturers.