Serial Number: Cam0045
Type:
Medium Format Twin Lens Reflex camera
Manufacturer:
Franke & Heidecke
Country of Origin:
Germany
Production Period:
1933 - 1976
Approximate Price:
USD 320.00 - 340.00
Reference:
camerapedia.wikia.com
Status: Display
Description:
The Rolleicord was a popular medium-format twin
lens reflex camera made by Franke & Heidecke (Rollei) between
1933 and 1976. It was a simpler, less expensive version of the
high-end Rolleiflex TLR, aimed at amateur photographers who
wanted a high-quality camera but could not afford the expensive
Rolleiflex. Several models of Rolleicord were made; the later models
generally had more advanced features and tend to be valued higher
in today's market. The first Rolleicord, introduced in November 1933,
was the Rolleicord I. This camera was a simplified version of the
Standard Rolleiflex, with a cheaper 75mm Zeiss Triotar lens and a
simplified film advance mechanism using a knob instead of the
crank found on the Rolleiflex. The Rolleicord I was available either
with a plain leatherette covering or elaborately patterned metal
faceplates. The latter variant is referred to as the "Art Deco"
Rolleicord.
The models that has the letters DRP on the left and to the right
DRGM on the front of the camera means that they were made before
World War II, because DRP means 'Deutsches Reichs Patent' (German
Reich Patent) and DRGM means 'Deutsches Reichs Gebrauchs
Muster' (basically a copyright for the name). In post WW2 models
you will find DBP and DBGM. They switched from "Reichs" to
"Bundes" (German Federal Patent).
Later models incorporated improved designs for the taking lens,
including the Carl Zeiss Tessar and Schneider Kreuznach Xenar, both
of which appeared on the Rolleiflex.
