At Rollei, we look back on a long and proud history in the world of photography. Together with our partner MiNT, we took on the challenge of creating a camera that preserves the spirit of the original Rollei 35 while meeting today's technical demands. In this blog post, you will learn why its production is so complex and get an insight into the Asian factory in the video below:
An icon reborn
The original Rollei 35 was revolutionary. It combined a compact design with outstanding image quality, setting standards for compact film cameras. But how do you bring such an icon into the modern age without losing its unique character? This question was at the heart of our collaboration with MiNT. The goal was to preserve the essence of the Rollei 35 while integrating modern technologies that meet today's demands.
The biggest challenge was to equip the camera with new features such as autofocus and an integrated flash without compromising its compact design and classic look. Thanks to the close cooperation between us and the experts at MiNT, we succeeded in finding the perfect balance between tradition and innovation.
200 precision parts in 120 meticulously executed steps
The journey to the Rollei 35 AF was anything but easy. Developing a camera that meets the highest standards while integrating new technologies requires precise planning, extensive testing, and continuous development. From the outset, it was clear that this process would be complex and time-consuming.
The production of the Rollei 35 AF is a demanding and time-consuming process, involving the assembly of over 200 precision parts in 120 meticulously executed steps.
The camera's design, which is strongly based on the retro style of the original, requires an almost manual production process that is difficult to implement in mass production.
A central aspect of the project was the development of a new lens that reflects the quality and charm of the original Rollei 35. Together with MiNT, a 5-element glass lens was developed specifically for the Rollei 35 AF. This lens not only delivers razor-sharp images but also a special "film look" reminiscent of the classic days of photography.
In addition, the camera's shutter and aperture were redesigned, inspired by the legendary Polaroid SX-70. This solution allowed the camera to be kept as compact as possible without compromising functionality.
Material selection and employee training
Special attention was paid to the choice of materials. For the housing of the Rollei 35 AF, metal was deliberately chosen to preserve the robustness and feel of the original camera. At the same time, new technologies such as LiDAR-based autofocus were integrated, which enables precise focusing even in difficult lighting conditions.
Another point is, of course, the employees. Since no company still produces film cameras (with the exception of Pentax), workers have to be retrained.
The production steps include, among others, inspection of incoming parts to ensure quality, quality controls at key stages of assembly, lens tuning, and final quality inspection. All of this requires highly skilled workers who have been trained in great detail beforehand.
Limited quantity
The interest in the Rollei 35 AF is already impressively high, which of course makes us very happy! Since production is complex, the Rollei 35 AF will only be available in limited quantities, especially at the beginning. We therefore recommend securing a copy early.
A camera with heart and soul
The Rollei 35 AF is a homage to the past and, at the same time, a step into the future. It unites tradition and innovation in a way that makes it timeless. Every aspect of the camera, from the lens to the housing, testifies to the care and craftsmanship that went into its production.
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