The Rollei 35 film camera holds a place of significance amongst film photography enthusiasts. Indeed, Rollei-branded merchandise at Kitamura Camera shops here in Japan are quite popular, and the Rollei 35 is often considered a collectors piece. Now, the Rollei 35 is making a comeback as the Rollei 35AF, being released by a Hong Kong based independent manufacturer, MiNT Camera. With a design based off the 1966 German camera and an autofocus lens, this camera has been making waves in the photography world. After being talked about for a long time, finally, it seems as though a release is imminent this year.
While the MiNT Camera website currently does not have a section for the Rollei 35AF yet, a dedicated website which contains many images of the camera, along with a newsletter signup prompt, was set up by the company. Multiple other sources have stated the founder, Gary Ho, revealed the release date of the camera is September of 2024. The reveal of the camera was last year in the autumn.
The announcement of the Rollei 35AF comes on the heels of the Pentax 17 announcement earlier in June 2024 by Japan-based Ricoh. Ricoh Imaging holds the rights of the Asahi Pentax branding. However, the 35AF being released is not expected to be a half-frame. Other sources, such as Kosmo foto, stated retired Pentax engineers joined the project in developing this camera.
Price and Features of the Rollei 35AF
The price point for this camera is expected to be $650 to $800, according to Kosmo Foto and Petapixel sources. Film photography being as popular as it is right now, this camera is expected to be a hit. The iconic design inherits the 1966 model’s operability of aperture and shutter speed, as well. The lens, as imaged, is a 35mm f2.8 autofocus lens. Additionally, like the Pentax 17 and retro cameras from the Showa age, the film advance mechanism is manual.
When this camera is released, we will update this article with more details. Additionally, we will work to do a review of this camera, if possible. Stay tuned to our social media for all the details.
The images are from the Rollei 35AF official site. Info quoted from reputable sources like PetaPixel and Kosmo Foto.
