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Update #14
28/8/2024
The result is the sum of all parts.
Winding the clocks back 2 years when I first announced that Mint was working on a film camera, this is what I said:
Original link here
“The odds are truly against us. Developing a premium film camera in 2022 is either the stupidest idea, or an endeavor that nobody's dared to try. The only reason that this might work is the supportive community. That's the only reason”
I was only half right. We are not the only ones stupid enough who dared to try. The second part is still true today. The only reason that this will work is because of the community.
The outcome of the Rollei 35AF project is the sum of all parts: You, us, and a bit of luck. To these there are a few words I wish to say.
To YOU, the community: A new concept requires new thinking. This camera is brand new, designed and developed in 2024, for today and tomorrow's film shooter.
From now on, new film cameras will be lighter (so you can carry around), packed with more bits and bytes (the chip in this camera is more powerful than the ones used in the Apollo missions), have more powerful features (Lidar is much more advanced), and material more environmentally friendly.
Whilst we pay homage to the wonderful lineage of historical film cameras, don't forget to look forward, because with the shift in market and technology this is what today's film cameras can be. We invite you not to the past, but to the present and future of film photography.
To US, the team behind it all: Everything that should be done, has been done.
5 years in developing a camera. Gathering a team amidst the pandemic, overcoming numerous obstacles, setting up a production line, managing the supply chain, controlling the quality, ironing out countless technical issues during the prototype phase, navigating the chip shortage…
Getting here hasn't been easy, but here we are.
To LUCK: Yes, of course.
About the lens
I noticed that there are some discussions about the lens. I might just as well clarify here:
Lens design is a subject on its own. It's art and science. Each lens has its own characteristic, personality, mood, and flavour.
What we tried to achieve with this lens is to recreate a slightly nostalgic 1980-90s feel. It's a combination of balancing the contrast, sharpness, and color rendition to evoke that classic aesthetic, while still delivering modern performance.
Why didn't we just go for the original Rollei 35 lens?
The answer is simple. The back focus is too long, it wasn't designed for autofocus, and the closest focus distance is too long.
Copy and paste does not work. Everything needs to be thoughtfully designed.
Ultimately, it's up to you, the photographer, to harness the distinctive character of this lens.
Pre-orders
Meanwhile, please be prepared for the pre-order opening on September 10th, 2024.
There will be a pleasant surprise for you - something we've never shown you before.
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Sincerely,
Gary and the Rollei 35AF Team
https://rollei35af.com/