magazine
2024.09.05

Reviving the 'Rollei 35' with Modern Technology: New Product 'Rollei 35 AF' Rumored for Summer 2024 Release | Release #77

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cover image by haruka

The Hong Kong-based camera manufacturer MiNT has announced a new model in the 'Rollei 35' series, the 'Rollei 35 AF'. Established in 2009, MiNT is known for developing instant cameras and repairing Polaroid cameras.

The 'Rollei 35 AF' is a modern recreation of the 'Rollei 35' which debuted in 1967, and it is expected to be released around summer 2024.

Reviving the Legendary 'Rollei 35'

The 'Rollei 35' is a compact, palm-sized camera developed by the German company Rollei, known for its portability. Despite its small size, it featured high-quality Tessar and Sonnar lenses capable of capturing excellent photos. However, due to the lack of a rangefinder in the viewfinder, photographers had to estimate the distance to the subject manually.

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© MiNT Camera | The official site for the Rollei 35AF is already live. By subscribing to the mailing list, you can receive the latest development updates.

Technical Specifications and Price Predictions

The new model 'Rollei 35 AF' is expected to include an AF (autofocus) feature. According to MiNT, they are developing a new AF unit using LiDAR technology (Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging) as a replacement for older AF technologies, promising higher precision.

The development period for the 'Rollei 35 AF' is approximately four years, with an anticipated retail price of $650–$800, or 100,000–120,000 yen. However, more details will be available with the official summer announcement.