I just got a Rollei 35 this year and got it CLA'd, this immediately became my favorite daily pocket camera. I plan on selling it in order to afford the new Rollei AF but I don't doubt it will be successful! If this project turns a profit I could possibly see MiNT starting a TLR project considering they've got years of experience making the Instax Mini and square cameras!
We are super exited for them...We really really really hope it doesnt have the garbage plastic coupling for the dual film transport/winding mechanism. Theoretically, it shouldnt have a need for that plastic hub because it should have a electronic copal inside.
I have a Rollei 35 with the f/3.5 Tessar that I got in trade for a Kodak Reflex II that needed a shutter cleaning -- *in 1975.* It isn't functional at present (film advance doesn't work and, probably related, the shutter doesn't cock), but if I had money to spare, I'm sure it's repairable. I *hope* I'll be able to afford this new 35 AF before it goes out of production, because I really enjoyed my old one (and so did my dad and my younger brother, who between them had it for almost twenty years) -- and I've never owned a *new* quality film camera. I prefer cameras that don't require a battery to operate, but I've accepted that nothing better than a Holga will ever be made fully mechanical again, and the 35 AF seems likely to be worth carrying a spare battery (as long as they didn't require opening the film chamber to change the battery like my old Rollei 35 did).
It's not fair to compare the Pentax 17 with the Rollei 35AF, as they serve different purposes. The Pentax 17 is specifically designed for young photographers and those new to analog photography, which Pentax themselves have emphasized. I get that you're trying to be honest in your review, but not everyone is a professional. In my city, where the minimum salary is just $136 a month, analog photography isn't a cheap hobby. For many, a half-frame camera like the Pentax 17 is a real blessing, making film photography more accessible. It deserves to be appreciated for that, rather than being judged against higher-end models.
As I said in my review- it may be a good camera for many photographers- just not what we really need- time will tell if the new Rollei 35AF is close- not sure about the lens!
Im sorry but I just have to disagree. The Pentax 17 is $500. I would say that likely puts it out of reach for many young/beginner photographers. Especially since you can spend a fraction of that and get something like a Mintola SRT101 or equivalent. It would certainly be the LAST camera I would hope to see in a beginners hands. The half-frame format has proven to not be worth the investment over time, especially not for $500.
I was testing a 35SE and decided on Ilford, 400 iso pushed 2 stops (and thus instructed Mr. Cad - the lab). All my shots were at f8/f11 and came out AMAZING in tonality and sharpness. No need to focus, really... As they used to say "f8 and done".
Yeah-- I think I did a quick mention a while ago- it’s lovely especially for contrast control- apparently all Polaroid material will be benefited from the chemical tweaks by end of year.
What i really don't like is the reviewer's negative comments about the Pentax 17. He is entitled to his own choice, but I don't think he should promote another camera at the cost of putting down another. Sure if it's about digital 📸 it's understandable to an extent, or if it was a review of a film 📸 back in the 90s. The fact that a new film 📸 is introduced by a major manufacturer (Pentax) in 2024, is a major win, (in fact a miracle which nobody would have expected) for the analog community. And there are several benefits of its half frame format in 2024. And the quality of the image rendered by the lens is just awesome from all reviews. Pentax has started the band wagon process of film photography. Let's not spread negativity about it. It's time for film! Pentax Pentax Pentax!!
@@FIGITALREVOLUTION You could just point out the nice thing about the mint camera, without having to bring negative things about the Pentax 17 in the discussion. It doesn't sound good (and unprofessional) coming from anyone, including you. It's (film 📸 in 2024) a very niche market & community. Even among the community, many are being very sceptical about new film 📸 saying it's better to buy those used 📸 from the 60s & 70s. So supporting new film cameras in 2024 (not the Leicas & the disposables) without bringing down the (only) another option is essential, if we want to keep this medium alive.
@@KoMei-pq7lxactually i’m really thankful for all the people discussing the pentax 17, good and bad. If people didn’t discuss their honest opinion and call out the disappointment in it, then how would companies know what to improve? Also i’m glad people roast it because it makes me realize I don’t need to spend $800cad on something that was “hyped” up. After understanding the things wrong with the pentax, I don’t need to waste my money on it! Yay!
Honestly I think I prefer the scale focus, having an AF without the possibility to check the focus before shooting (and potentially wasting money) is not something I really like. I totally get that it will be faster and probably more accurate in most situations, but if I am going with film it's because I can take minutes to compose a shot and deliberately choose everything. Between it and the Pentax 17 I think I'd like the 17 more, but clearly both are not cameras for me, even if I hope both will have success!
Yeah I like scale focus for most street work as it is very fast and at F8 all is good- neither are really perfect for me but I am leaning towards the Rollei as I like the layout better.
I was one of the first on the list to buy it and after lots of research found that it cannot compare with the original 35 S including build quality and the price was a total greed on the part of Mint.
The $799 price you flashed for this camera does one big service to the Pentax 17 and even the Polaroid I-2: it justifies their price point as brand new cameras. Creating all 3 cameras, different though they are, in 2023-2024, is quite an undertaking in R&D, design, manufacturing, warranty and service, distribution, marketing, shipping, continuing support (my Polaroid just got a firmware update)….All those areas that vintage cameras also had when they were new, but whose costs have been paid for already. Any level headed, knowledgeable individual is going to realize creating new cameras is an expensive undertaking, and as photographers there ought be a celebration of these companies and their dedication to put out new film cameras. Sure, evaluate them and decide for yourself whether they are a good fit for you. But the whining and kvetching and the apples-to-oranges comparing decades old camera prices to the new cameras needs to end. Look forward to more info and hands on reviews of this new Rollei!
@@ezpoppy55 why do we need new film cameras at all ? There are currently more than enough cameras already in existence to satisfy anyone who wants to get into film . Cameras that can be acquired for a fraction of the price mentioned with far better specifications and without the environmental damage of creating even more plastic and metal.
@@ciantisdall Question for you: What does it matter to you, your photographic pursuit and practice, your life if a company decides they are going to make a new camera, film or digital? No one is being compelled to purchase or use it. In the decades since new cameras came out, there have been advances in camera technology and lens manufacturing that some may want to use. Also, the number of used cameras dwindles every year due to the fact that there are no replacements, and there are fewer and fewer resources for repairing the ones that do exist. If anyone prefers to use old gear, I have zero problem with that. I have old film cameras myself that I continue to use and am not giving up (Toyo LF and Mamiya MF and, hell, even my Canon dSLR is approaching 20 years old!). But I can understand the appeal of new gear as well. It’s new, has a warranty, the potential for upgrades and accessories, and may have new features that make the camera even better (like AF in this new Rollei). Everyone is free to consider, judge, evaluate and then choose - for themselves. It’s not up to you or me or anyone to dictate what they can choose.
@@ciantisdall There are predictions out there that within the next 10 to 15 years, nearly 80% of all gear will either break down or be faulty (electrical). Check the interviews with CameraRescue from Finland. They are doing a massive job to keep film alive. Spare parts and repair expertise are hard to find. New gear is therefore essential to pass on film photography to the next generation.
I really question the 80% as I have cameras that are over 100 years old that I use and no issues. Keep your camera well tuned and fire the shutter every week and they will last many many decades more- biggest issue is batteries left in cameras that leak or a camera that has not been used and dries out. Electronic cameras always are an issue compared to manual ones due to their additional complexity but 80% again seems way to high of a number.
@@JinnoRedovan it’s a brand new entry level camera with very basic features and a fixed lens that almost costs a grand . Back in the 90s cameras this basic did not cost close to a grand even when adjusting for inflation.
@@FIGITALREVOLUTION how do u possibly advance with your face to it? Like how would u follow a subject and keep shooting if u need to crank it towards your eye ?
Like the original Rollei it does block the viewfinder when you advance - this camera in the original and new version is def not meant for rapid shooting like a Leica- it’s a design issue that carried forward- does not affect my work as I am a one shot at a time shooter but I can see your point.
A total gimmick wannabe gimmick overpriced and poorly built camera! Don’t buy it !! This is not build by Rollei. Do you research and you will thank me later.
I am also excited about this one. Basically a modern point-and-shoot with manual options, very nice. Great job by MINT
Fingers crossed!
Those glasses are fabulous
Thank you!
I just got a Rollei 35 this year and got it CLA'd, this immediately became my favorite daily pocket camera. I plan on selling it in order to afford the new Rollei AF but I don't doubt it will be successful!
If this project turns a profit I could possibly see MiNT starting a TLR project considering they've got years of experience making the Instax Mini and square cameras!
We are super exited for them...We really really really hope it doesnt have the garbage plastic coupling for the dual film transport/winding mechanism. Theoretically, it shouldnt have a need for that plastic hub because it should have a electronic copal inside.
I have a Rollei 35 with the f/3.5 Tessar that I got in trade for a Kodak Reflex II that needed a shutter cleaning -- *in 1975.* It isn't functional at present (film advance doesn't work and, probably related, the shutter doesn't cock), but if I had money to spare, I'm sure it's repairable. I *hope* I'll be able to afford this new 35 AF before it goes out of production, because I really enjoyed my old one (and so did my dad and my younger brother, who between them had it for almost twenty years) -- and I've never owned a *new* quality film camera. I prefer cameras that don't require a battery to operate, but I've accepted that nothing better than a Holga will ever be made fully mechanical again, and the 35 AF seems likely to be worth carrying a spare battery (as long as they didn't require opening the film chamber to change the battery like my old Rollei 35 did).
It's not fair to compare the Pentax 17 with the Rollei 35AF, as they serve different purposes. The Pentax 17 is specifically designed for young photographers and those new to analog photography, which Pentax themselves have emphasized. I get that you're trying to be honest in your review, but not everyone is a professional.
In my city, where the minimum salary is just $136 a month, analog photography isn't a cheap hobby. For many, a half-frame camera like the Pentax 17 is a real blessing, making film photography more accessible. It deserves to be appreciated for that, rather than being judged against higher-end models.
As I said in my review- it may be a good camera for many photographers- just not what we really need- time will tell if the new Rollei 35AF is close- not sure about the lens!
Im sorry but I just have to disagree. The Pentax 17 is $500. I would say that likely puts it out of reach for many young/beginner photographers. Especially since you can spend a fraction of that and get something like a Mintola SRT101 or equivalent. It would certainly be the LAST camera I would hope to see in a beginners hands. The half-frame format has proven to not be worth the investment over time, especially not for $500.
I was testing a 35SE and decided on Ilford, 400 iso pushed 2 stops (and thus instructed Mr. Cad - the lab). All my shots were at f8/f11 and came out AMAZING in tonality and sharpness. No need to focus, really... As they used to say "f8 and done".
Yep-- F8 and be there-- BUT if you want to shoot F2.8 it’s a challenge but I love the rendering of the lens.
If only it wasn’t autofocus. Can it be focused manually at all?
I don’t think so BUT it may be updated through firmware-- time will tell
As long as you can focus lock it’s OK.
I also am looking forward to this camera. It is extremely intriguing
Hoping it lives up to the legacy of the 35S!
Amen! What a wonderful camera that still is!
Can you review the new Polaroid B&W film?
Yeah-- I think I did a quick mention a while ago- it’s lovely especially for contrast control- apparently all Polaroid material will be benefited from the chemical tweaks by end of year.
What i really don't like is the reviewer's negative comments about the Pentax 17.
He is entitled to his own choice, but I don't think he should promote another camera at the cost of putting down another.
Sure if it's about digital 📸 it's understandable to an extent, or if it was a review of a film 📸 back in the 90s.
The fact that a new film 📸 is introduced by a major manufacturer (Pentax) in 2024, is a major win, (in fact a miracle which nobody would have expected) for the analog community.
And there are several benefits of its half frame format in 2024. And the quality of the image rendered by the lens is just awesome from all reviews.
Pentax has started the band wagon process of film photography. Let's not spread negativity about it.
It's time for film!
Pentax Pentax Pentax!!
Oh come on-- honest discussion about the good bad and ugly is important- soft balling honest conversation is not helpful -
@@FIGITALREVOLUTION You could just point out the nice thing about the mint camera, without having to bring negative things about the Pentax 17 in the discussion. It doesn't sound good (and unprofessional) coming from anyone, including you.
It's (film 📸 in 2024) a very niche market & community. Even among the community, many are being very sceptical about new film 📸 saying it's better to buy those used 📸 from the 60s & 70s.
So supporting new film cameras in 2024 (not the Leicas & the disposables) without bringing down the (only) another option is essential, if we want to keep this medium alive.
Actually not being honest in a review is the definition of unprofessional.
@@KoMei-pq7lxactually i’m really thankful for all the people discussing the pentax 17, good and bad. If people didn’t discuss their honest opinion and call out the disappointment in it, then how would companies know what to improve? Also i’m glad people roast it because it makes me realize I don’t need to spend $800cad on something that was “hyped” up. After understanding the things wrong with the pentax, I don’t need to waste my money on it! Yay!
@FIGITALREVOLUTION have you used the Pentax 17?
Honestly I think I prefer the scale focus, having an AF without the possibility to check the focus before shooting (and potentially wasting money) is not something I really like. I totally get that it will be faster and probably more accurate in most situations, but if I am going with film it's because I can take minutes to compose a shot and deliberately choose everything. Between it and the Pentax 17 I think I'd like the 17 more, but clearly both are not cameras for me, even if I hope both will have success!
Yeah I like scale focus for most street work as it is very fast and at F8 all is good- neither are really perfect for me but I am leaning towards the Rollei as I like the layout better.
I was one of the first on the list to buy it and after lots of research found that it cannot compare with the original 35 S including build quality and the price was a total greed on the part of Mint.
Ugh- i have not seen myself but I find your thoughts upsetting
@@FIGITALREVOLUTIONwell it looks like you haven’t tried to shoot with the true Rollei 35. If you did you would notice the difference in quality build.
I own like 5 of them-- the originals- I have not seen the new one
The $799 price you flashed for this camera does one big service to the Pentax 17 and even the Polaroid I-2: it justifies their price point as brand new cameras.
Creating all 3 cameras, different though they are, in 2023-2024, is quite an undertaking in R&D, design, manufacturing, warranty and service, distribution, marketing, shipping, continuing support (my Polaroid just got a firmware update)….All those areas that vintage cameras also had when they were new, but whose costs have been paid for already.
Any level headed, knowledgeable individual is going to realize creating new cameras is an expensive undertaking, and as photographers there ought be a celebration of these companies and their dedication to put out new film cameras.
Sure, evaluate them and decide for yourself whether they are a good fit for you. But the whining and kvetching and the apples-to-oranges comparing decades old camera prices to the new cameras needs to end.
Look forward to more info and hands on reviews of this new Rollei!
@@ezpoppy55 why do we need new film cameras at all ? There are currently more than enough cameras already in existence to satisfy anyone who wants to get into film . Cameras that can be acquired for a fraction of the price mentioned with far better specifications and without the environmental damage of creating even more plastic and metal.
I mentioned that in my post on the Pentax 17- BUT I can see the Rollei as hopefully an upgrade to the previous model with the AF but time will tell--
@@ciantisdall Question for you: What does it matter to you, your photographic pursuit and practice, your life if a company decides they are going to make a new camera, film or digital?
No one is being compelled to purchase or use it. In the decades since new cameras came out, there have been advances in camera technology and lens manufacturing that some may want to use.
Also, the number of used cameras dwindles every year due to the fact that there are no replacements, and there are fewer and fewer resources for repairing the ones that do exist.
If anyone prefers to use old gear, I have zero problem with that. I have old film cameras myself that I continue to use and am not giving up (Toyo LF and Mamiya MF and, hell, even my Canon dSLR is approaching 20 years old!).
But I can understand the appeal of new gear as well. It’s new, has a warranty, the potential for upgrades and accessories, and may have new features that make the camera even better (like AF in this new Rollei).
Everyone is free to consider, judge, evaluate and then choose - for themselves. It’s not up to you or me or anyone to dictate what they can choose.
@@ciantisdall There are predictions out there that within the next 10 to 15 years, nearly 80% of all gear will either break down or be faulty (electrical). Check the interviews with CameraRescue from Finland. They are doing a massive job to keep film alive. Spare parts and repair expertise are hard to find.
New gear is therefore essential to pass on film photography to the next generation.
I really question the 80% as I have cameras that are over 100 years old that I use and no issues. Keep your camera well tuned and fire the shutter every week and they will last many many decades more- biggest issue is batteries left in cameras that leak or a camera that has not been used and dries out. Electronic cameras always are an issue compared to manual ones due to their additional complexity but 80% again seems way to high of a number.
Role-eye 🙂
Lol, that price. WHY tf it costs 900 euro?
Yeah I’m kinda surprised it is $$$$--
Cynical capitalism. Thats why.
849€ ... that sucks. Price is released.
it's a brand new camera... what's your desired price point?
cameras have always been luxurious items, it is just not right to compare them to a camera from the used market
@@JinnoRedovan Not more than 549,99€
@@JinnoRedovan it’s a brand new entry level camera with very basic features and a fixed lens that almost costs a grand . Back in the 90s cameras this basic did not cost close to a grand even when adjusting for inflation.
The Rollei 35 retailed at $189.95 upon their initial release in 1966, which is $1,650 in today's money….
i just saw it has the advance lever over the view finder and that is going to be a no thank you from me dog.
@@FIGITALREVOLUTION how do u possibly advance with your face to it? Like how would u follow a subject and keep shooting if u need to crank it towards your eye ?
Like the original Rollei it does block the viewfinder when you advance - this camera in the original and new version is def not meant for rapid shooting like a Leica- it’s a design issue that carried forward- does not affect my work as I am a one shot at a time shooter but I can see your point.
799 USD
Yep-
that price is outrageous .You could buy a SLR with a much better lens for maybe half that second hand.
That is true-- but compared to used ones it makes sense and is far better than the Pentax 17 at least on paper.
When the original 35 came out it cost roughly $175 USD. Inflation adjustment would bring it just shy of $1K today. It wasnt a cheap camera then.
A total gimmick wannabe gimmick overpriced and poorly built camera! Don’t buy it !! This is not build by Rollei. Do you research and you will thank me later.
I have have hopes of seeing on in person this next week and will compare to several classic models I have in house