The Rollei 35 Classic Gold 75th Anniversary is a special edition of the Rollei 35 Classic. Presented in 1995 for Rollei’s 75th birthday. It comes with a case that has been plated with gold. A total of around 900 pieces were produced by Rollei Fototechnic in Germany.
Camera functions
Lens
Despite its small dimensions, the Rollei 35 Classic Gold 75th Anniversary shines by taking first-class images, mainly thanks to its impressive lens.
With this edition, the traditional lens has been replaced by the renowned “Carl Zeiss Oberkochen Sonnar 1:2.8 f=40mm” lens, which is permanently installed in the camera. When the camera is not in use, the lens disappears into the housing, contributing to the compact design.
The lens offers a focal length of 40mm and a maximum aperture of f/2.8. It is important to note that the camera does not offer autofocus or distance measurement, so manual focusing is necessary. For optimal sharpness, a minimum distance of 90 cm from the object should be maintained.
Exposure
The camera’s innovative technology uses special measuring cells to determine the optimal exposure settings. The exposure meter is designed for films with a sensitivity between ISO 25 and ISO 1600, with aperture and exposure time manually adjustable, giving the user full control over the device.
The aperture can be adjusted between values of f/2.8 and f/22, while the shutter speed can vary between 1/500 second and 1/2 second, making the camera suitable for a variety of shooting situations.
Additional functions
This special edition allows for long exposures, with the shutter remaining open for a variable duration. For best results, it is recommended to mount the camera on a tripod when using bulb mode or longer exposure times.
For self-timer shots, such as group photos or self-portraits, it is advisable to mount it on a tripod. To prevent blurring caused by camera shake, there is a connection for a cable release.
The camera also offers the option of connecting external flash units or radio triggers via the hot shoe connection to expand the exposure options. The lightning connector is located on the bottom of the case.
Please note that multiple exposures are not possible with this model as a special double exposure lock is integrated.
Battery
The camera requires a PX625 battery (eBay / Amazon*) to operate. Since these batteries are no longer available, the Weincell battery (eBay / Amazon*) can be used as an alternative.
Films for the Rollei 35
This camera relies on the use of 35mm film. The robustness and reliability of this format have made it a popular choice, supported by several manufacturers.
Currently available films that are suitable for the Rollei 35 Classic Gold 75th Anniversary are the Kodak Gold 200* and the Ilford Delta 100* . Both films offer solid results and are well suited for everyday use.
Other film manufacturers worth mentioning include Foma, Fujifilm, Adox, Rollei and Vienna-based Lomography.
Developing the color film requires the C-41 process, which is offered by most laboratories. Some large drugstores in Germany also offer color film developing services. Developing black and white film is slightly different, but can be done at home with the right instructions and photography chemicals.
The negatives are a standard size of 24mm x 36mm, meaning at least 36 shots can fit on a 135-36 film. The camera does not have an automatic film advance function, so the user must advance the film manually after each shot; a quick-release lever is available for this.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Quick release lever |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens name | Carl Zeiss Sonnar 1:2.8 f=40mm |
| Focal length | 40 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 90 cm / 2.952 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Filter thread | 30.5 mm |
| Lens design | 5 elements in 4 groups |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1/2 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 1600 |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x PX625 battery |
| Manufacturer | Rollei Fototechnic |
| Country of production | Germany |
| Number of units produced | 900 units |
FAQ about the Rollei 35 Classic Gold 75th Anniversary
What type of lens does the Rollei 35 Classic Gold 75th Anniversary edition utilize?
It features a Carl Zeiss Oberkochen Sonnar 1:2.8 f=40mm lens, renowned for its image quality. This lens retracts into the body when not in use, contributing to the camera's compact design.
How does the camera handle focusing and exposure?
This special edition requires manual focusing; there's no autofocus. Exposure is controlled manually, adjusting aperture and shutter speed based on the built-in light meter, suitable for ISO 25-1600 film.
Does the gold edition offer any special features beyond the standard Rollei 35?
Besides the gold plating, the features are largely the same. It still lacks automatic film advance but offers bulb mode for long exposures and a hot shoe for external flashes.
What kind of film is compatible with this compact camera, and how many exposures does it hold?
It uses standard 35mm film, holding 36 exposures per roll. Popular choices include Kodak Gold 200 and Ilford Delta 100, but many others are also suitable.
What battery does the 75th Anniversary edition use, and what are the alternatives?
It originally used a PX625 battery, now largely unavailable. A Weincell battery is a readily available and suitable replacement for this older model.