Based on some preliminary calls, the cost to repair the Rolleiflex was going to be high, possibly a few hundred dollars. So I considered other options, including buying a replacement.
I have a light meter, a Gossen spot meter. I call it the Goose. I like it because it supports the zone system. Although I have used it with my current digital it is essential for Rolleiflex or in all probability anything I would replace it with.
As for the replacement I got this 6×6: with an 80mm f/2.8 which is the equivalent of a 44mm lens on a 35mm camera.
There are a number of features this camera offers over the Rolleiflex, including: alternative view finders, interchangeable lenses, a multi-exposure switch and interchangeable film backs. The latter is a nice feature as it allows me to put different types of film into different cartridges and then replace them on the fly. The multi-exposure switch allows me to take several shots over the same negative.
In contrast to the digital camera, it has a “T” setting, meaning I can keep the shutter open as long as I want. Digital cameras are sometimes limited due to sensor heat.
If there is a downside it is the weight which is about 1.9 KG all in with lens. This is over 3 times that of my digital outfit. I’ll see what this means in practice.
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