Rolleicord Film Camera

A Bit of History

In the world of photography, few names evoke as much nostalgia and admiration as Rolleiflex and Rolleicord cameras. They stand out not just as a collection of photographic equipment, but as symbols of an era where craftsmanship and quality were paramount. The first model, Rolleicord I Art Deco, also known as ‘Tapeten-Rolleicord’ (Wallpaper Rolleicord), was produced by the German camera maker Franke and Heidecke from 1933 to 1936.

The Rolleicord V Model 2a, which I own, made its debut in 1957. This model was part of the ongoing evolution of the Rolleicord series, constantly refining and enhancing the features of its predecessors. It stayed true to the classic design and high-quality performance that photographers had come to expect from Rolleicord. The V Model 2a was the second-to-last in the Rolleicord family, with the V Model 2b being the final edition. It’s a perfect film camera for anyone who appreciates the blend of history and functionality in photography.

TLR: Twin-Lens Reflex

The Rolleicord camera is a twin-lens reflex (TLR) film camera, a design that immediately sets it apart from the modern digital cameras we are so used to today. With its distinctive dual lenses—one for viewing and focusing, the other for taking the photograph—the TLR design offers a unique perspective on the world. This setup allows photographers to see exactly what the lens sees (well, we see a mirrored version), with minimal parallax error, making composition both a meticulous and rewarding process.

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Rolleicord V is its robust and elegant design. Encased in a metal body covered with textured leatherette, the camera exudes a sense of durability and classic style. The controls are intuitively placed, and the overall feel of the camera is one of solid craftsmanship. This is a camera built to last, and many Rolleicord cameras are still in excellent working condition today, a testament to their enduring quality. Of course, they might need some CLA (cleaning, lubrication, and adjustments) depending on how much they’ve been used, but with proper care, these cameras can continue to perform beautifully for many years, if not forever.

A Medium Format Marvel

Using the Rolleicord camera is an experience in itself. Unlike digital cameras, this one requires a much more deliberate approach to photography. Loading the film, setting the aperture and shutter speed, focusing through the waist-level viewfinder—each step is a ritual that connects me more deeply with the act of taking a photograph. This process encourages a slower pace, a more thoughtful consideration of each shot, and an appreciation for the mechanics of photography. I simply love the process!

The waist-level viewfinder is particularly special. Looking down into the viewfinder, you see a reversed image, which can be disorienting at first but soon becomes second nature. This unique perspective changes the way you frame your shots and interact with your subject. It’s almost as if the camera invites you to take a step back and see the world from a slightly different angle. Amazing, isn’t it?

One of the defining features of the Rolleicord V and all other Rolleicord cameras is their use of medium format film. Unlike the more common 35mm film, medium format film produces larger negatives, which translate into images with greater detail and smoother gradations. If you are into film photography the Rolleicord V, or any other Rolleicord model, will make a perfect tool in your photographic arsenal.

The quality of the images produced by the Rolleicord is largely due to its outstanding lens. The camera is equipped with a Schneider-Kreuznach Xenar 75mm f/3.5 lens, renowned for its quality. Of course, it’s not as sharp as Hasselblad’s Zeiss or modern lenses. However, it’s not the sharpness I am looking for. Not at all. It’s the softness I am after. Though this lens can be really sharp—or should I say, sharp enough—I personally love it for its softness and distinctive look.

Timeless Aesthetic

Beyond its technical prowess, the Rolleicord V embodies a timeless aesthetic that continues to captivate many photographers. Its classic design dates back to a time when cameras were not just tools but also objects of beauty. A Rolleicord I Art Deco makes a great example. Holding a Rolleicord in my hands, I can’t help but feel a connection to the history of photography and to the countless photographers who have used this particular camera to capture their vision of the world.

To me, the Rolleicord V also carries a certain mystique—it invites me to engage with the process of photography. There is a sense of satisfaction in mastering its controls and in seeing the results of my efforts on the film—a tangible record of my creative vision.

In the Field

Whether I’m wandering through narrow old streets, exploring the countryside, or old building ruins, this film camera becomes an extension of my creative intent. Its compact size for a medium format camera makes it surprisingly portable, and its robust construction means it can handle the rigours of fieldwork with ease. It’s a simple, versatile, and beautiful tool built to last.

My Rolleicord, and medium format film cameras in general, make me slow down and be more deliberate about the process. I develop a deeper connection with the subject and a greater awareness of light, composition, and moment. In a world where digital cameras and smartphones make it easy to take hundreds of photos in a single session, my Rolleicord’s more measured approach feels like a breath of fresh air. It really does.

The Perfect Tool

The Rolleicord has left an indelible mark on the world of photography. It has been mainly used by amateurs, as professionals would go for the Rolleiflex but it doesn’t mean the Rolleicord is worse or inferior to its bigger brother. I personally prefer Rolleicord. Many reasons here, but to name a few—it’s smaller, lighter, and much simpler in terms of technical complexity. Less things to go wrong. Yes, some Rolleiflex models have faster lenses—f2.8 vs f3.5 of the Rolleicord or feature a light meter. This, however, is not what I need, so Rolleicord V is a perfect tool for me. It helps me create the images I want and gives me an unforgettable experience every time I use it. What else to wish for?

This camera camera continues to inspire people who are drawn to its unique qualities and film photography. Even in today’s digital age, the Rolleicord remains a beloved choice for those who appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of analogue photography. The resurgence of interest in film photography has brought renewed attention to cameras including the Rolleicord, and many photographers are discovering—or rediscovering—the joys of shooting with this classic camera.

So…

To me, my Rolleicord is much more than just a film camera; it is a piece of photographic history, a testament to the artistry and engineering of its time. Its unique design, simplicity, reliability, and unique lens have made it the perfect camera for me — the camera I can’t go without. Using my Rolleicord is a journey into the heart of film photography, where every shot is a deliberate act of creation.

In an era where digital technology dominates, the old cameras like Rolleicord or Rolleiflex stand as a reminder of the value of craftsmanship, quality, and the simple joy of taking a photograph.

And if you are into film photography and want to try medium format, give Rolleicord a try. You will not be disappointed. Well, I hope you will not be. It’s a brilliant camera that gives a unique photographic experience—one that invites you to slow down, look closer, immerse yourself into the moment, see it through the lens (and focusing screen), and capture it on film.