Rare Late-Production Rolleiflex 3.5F White Face TLR Camera

This is a genuine late-production Rolleiflex 3.5F White Face twin-lens reflex camera from the final series (serial in the 2 85x xxx range, circa 1972-1975). The White Face variant is distinguished by its plain front plate with Rollei-Werke Franke and Heidecke identification and is highly sought after by collectors for its rarity and refined late features, including the desirable 6-element Schneider Xenotar taking lens.

The camera has just completed a comprehensive professional CLA (Clean, Lubricate, Adjust) service and is fully operational, ready for immediate film use. Despite clear evidence of extensive hard professional or enthusiast use over its lifetime, all mechanical functions operate smoothly and accurately.

Technical Specifications

• Model: Rolleiflex 3.5F White Face (Type 5 / late production)
• Taking Lens: Schneider-Kreuznach Xenotar 75 mm f 3.5 (6 elements, coated)
• Viewing Lens: Heidosmat 75 mm f 2.8
• Shutter: Synchro-Compur MXV leaf shutter with speeds B, 1 second to 1/500 second
• Film Format: 120 roll film, 6 x 6 cm (12 exposures); late White Face models typically support 220 film capability with 12/24 frame counter
• Lens Mount / Accessories: Fixed lens TLR with Bay II filter and accessory mount
• Year of Production: Circa 1972-1975 (late White Face series)
• Dimensions (approx.): 112 mm wide x 98 mm deep x 148 mm high
• Weight (approx.): 1.22 kg

Condition Report

This example shows significant cosmetic wear consistent with heavy long-term use: scuffs, scratches, and patina on the black leatherette covering, metal surfaces, and controls. The taking and viewing lenses exhibit some coating separation typical of vintage optics of this age; this has no negative effect on image quality, sharpness, contrast, or light transmission. There is no fungus, haze, or delamination affecting performance.

Following the recent professional CLA, the shutter fires cleanly and consistently at all speeds, the film advance and crank mechanism operates smoothly, focusing is precise, and the viewfinder is bright and clear. The camera is mechanically sound and ready to load with film and begin shooting immediately. It remains a fully functional, collectible example of one of the rarest and most desirable late Rolleiflex 3.5F variants.

Collector Note: The White Face 3.5F with Xenotar lens represents the final evolution of the classic Rollei TLR line before production changes. These late examples command a premium among enthusiasts due to their scarcity and the refined 6-element Xenotar optic.

This is a well-used but freshly serviced, mechanically reliable camera offered in honest, as-found cosmetic condition. Ideal for photographers who value character, proven performance, and rarity over pristine cosmetics.