Superb 1940 Rolleiflex Automat, Freshly Serviced, CLA’d!

Cleaned, Lubricated & Adjusted. Ready for immediate use

If you’re familiar with the Rolleiflex and Rolleicord cameras you’ll know that they’re considered a cult classic by many fans. It’s a 6x6 TLR camera that uses 120 roll film. It was the camera of choice by pros until the middle of the 1960’s. And even today it’s still a camera that’s often mentioned by websites as an excellent way to get into medium format photography. It’s a very famous design that just like Leica, inspired countless copies over the decades.

This is an excellent early example of the first model that had the features and controls that we now take for granted when we think of a Rolleiflex. This is the first Rolleiflex with bayonet mounts on viewing and camera lenses which allowed filters or shades to be quickly installed and removed. This legendary model was introduced and produced in Germany by Frank & Heidecke from 1939 thru 1949, starting with serial number 805,000 and ended with serial number 1,099,999.  

The serial number of this WWII era camera (898733) indicates that it was produced in Germany in circa 1940. Understandably an early Rolleiflex from this generation is a desirable and significant camera. Many were used by war correspondents and photographers during WWII and subsequently damaged, worn out or lost in action…

Some 80 years after it left the factory, this Rolleiflex is still in beautiful condition and thanks to the careful attention we’ve given it, everything works as it should and it will give you many years of enjoyment.

This camera has been carefully cleaned, lubricated and adjusted. Focusing is accurate. The film advance and film counter works correctly. The Compur-Rapid shutter works well and all speeds (T, B & 1 Sec-1/500th) are appropriate. The slow speeds buzz along smoothly and the faster ones are clean and snappy.

The sharp Zeiss 3.5/75mm Tessar lens (four elements in three groups) is in exceptionally fine condition. It’s clean and clear. There are no scratches, just a couple light cleaning wisps and it’s capable of producing lovely photos with modern color and black & white films.

All in all, a very beautiful enjoyable vintage camera. Load it with your favorite film and keep it handy for that perfect shot you’ve been looking for. You know the one... the one with the perfect Ansel Adams light breaking through the dark storm clouds that leaves you wishing that you had a classic vintage camera with you…

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