In 1982, Rollei went bankrupt. The company Rollei Fototechnic then took over the production machines from the insolvency estate. The machines were then brought back to Germany from Singapore.
The Rollei 35 Classic was presented at the Photokina 1990 in Cologne. It was produced in small numbers. There were always special editions. Rollei Fototechnic, later DHW Fototechnik, produced until 2014.
Camera functions
Lens
Despite its small stature, the Rollei 35 Classic impresses with exceptionally clear and high-quality images, largely thanks to its lens.
It is a 35mm camera that has a permanently mounted “Carl Zeiss Oberkochen Sonnar 1:2.8 f=40mm” lens. When not in use, it retracts into the case to preserve its small stature.
The lens offers a focal length of 40mm and a maximum aperture of f/2.8. This camera does not have an autofocus or rangefinder, so manual focusing on the desired subject is necessary. To avoid blurring, a minimum distance of 90 cm from the subject should be maintained.
Exposure
The intelligent use of sensors allows the camera to calculate the optimal exposure settings. The exposure meter is designed for films with ISO 25 to ISO 1600. The aperture and exposure time can be adjusted as desired, giving the photographer full control over the camera.
You can choose between aperture values from f/2.8 to f/22 and shutter speeds from 1/500 second to 1/2 second, covering a wide range of shooting situations.
Additional functions
The Rollei 35 Classic offers the option of taking long exposures. In this mode the shutter remains open for a variable period of time. When using bulb mode or longer exposure times, the camera should be mounted on a tripod.
Even when using the self-timer, for example for group photos or self-portraits, it makes sense to attach it to a tripod. To prevent blurring, there is a connection for a cable remote shutter release.
The hot shoe port can be used to connect external flashes or wireless triggers to improve exposure settings. The lightning connector is located on the bottom of the case.
Unfortunately, multiple exposures are not possible with this camera as it has a special double exposure lock.
Size & Battery
The Rollei 35 Classic impresses with its compact dimensions of 9.7 x 6 x 3.2 cm and a weight of 385 grams. Compared to DSLRs or medium format cameras, it is a really handy tool. It is made of robust material and has a metal housing.
A PX625 battery (eBay / Amazon*) serves as the energy source, but is no longer available. As an alternative, Weincell batteries (eBay / Amazon*) can be used.
Films for the Rollei 35 Classic
Without appropriate films, the Rollei 35 Classic remains useless. According to the manufacturer, the camera requires 35mm film. This format maintains its popularity due to its reliability and simplicity, and some producers still make films for this format.
Suitable films that can still be purchased today include Kodak Portra 400* and Kodak T-Max 100*. These films produce high-quality recordings and are very suitable for everyday use.
Of course, there are other suppliers of suitable film materials, including Ilford, Fujifilm, Adox, Rollei and Lomography from Vienna.
Color films must be developed using the C-41 process, which is available in most laboratories. Some large drugstores in Germany also offer color film developing services. The developing steps for black and white film are slightly different than those for color film, but with the right instructions and chemicals, they can also be developed at home.
The negatives measure 24 mm x 36 mm, so at least 36 shots fit on a normal 35mm film. There is no automatic film advance option in the camera, so the photographer must manually advance to the next frame. A quick release lever is available for this.
Value of the camera
The market value of the Rollei 35 Classic obviously depends on its condition and functionality. The current average price for a Rollei 35 is 1.370,67 Euro.
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 |
| Size | 10,08 x 7,08 x 4,48 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 3.97 x 2.79 x 1.76 inches |
| Weight | 385 Grams |
| Manufacturer | Rollei Fototechnic |
| Country of production | Germany |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Production duration | 24 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 1.370,67 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 26 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 592,81 Euro (640.78 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 856,67 Euro (926.53 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 1.171,69 Euro (1.27 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Rollei 35 Classic
What type of lens does the Rollei 35 Classic utilize, and what are its key specifications?
It features a fixed Carl Zeiss Sonnar 40mm f/2.8 lens. This lens retracts into the body for compactness and provides excellent image quality.
How does the camera handle focusing and what's the minimum focusing distance?
The Rollei 35 Classic uses manual focus, requiring the user to adjust the lens manually. A minimum distance of 90cm is recommended to avoid blur.
What is the range of shutter speeds and apertures offered by this compact camera?
It offers shutter speeds from 1/500th of a second to 1/2 second and apertures ranging from f/2.8 to f/22, providing versatility in shooting conditions.
Can the Rollei 35 Classic perform multiple exposures, and what other features enhance its functionality?
No, multiple exposures are not possible due to a built-in double exposure prevention mechanism. However, it includes a bulb mode for long exposures, a self-timer, and a PC sync socket for external flash.
What are the physical dimensions and weight of this classic device, and what kind of power source does it require?
The Rollei 35 Classic boasts compact dimensions of 9.7 x 6 x 3.2 cm and weighs 385 grams. It runs on a PX625 battery, although Weincell batteries are a viable alternative.