Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2000/10/25
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]I doubt that prices for these cameras will inflate dramatically, for several reasons: 1) Digital imaging will decrease demand for silver-halide based cameras. As digital cameras become more precise, and as resolution improved, the need for conventional silver halide 6x6 cameras will diminish. In addition, as fewer people use 120/220 cameras, demand for film will drop, making it more diffficult to obtain and process. People do consider the "pain in the neck" factor when selecting a camera! 2) Rolleis are limited to ONE focal length. For a little more money, you can buy a 645 camera with interchangeable lenses. If our beloved Leicas were limited to only one non-interchangeable lens, I doubt there'd be much interest in them. 3) Rollei-type focusing isn't for everyone. Most photographers seem to prefer looking straight ahead, whether through an SLR's prism or through a rangefinder window. I still treasure my Rolleis (I have two 3.5s, a Xenotar and a Tessar) but I doubt that they'll appreciate significantly. To use an example: twenty five years ago I wanted a Bolex H8 Reflex movie camera. It was the ne plus ultra (and really, still is) of movie machines: reflex viewing, incredible Switar prime fixed focus lenses, Kern Swiss zooms available, variable speed, variable shutter, motor options, 100' loads (equal to eight minutes at silent speed). In those days, you couldn't find one of these with the three lenses for less than around $500. Remember, too that this was a STANDARD 8 camera, not a Super 8, and had been OBSOLETE since 1965. Nevertheless, they sold for premium prices. Today, you can have your pick of gorgeous H8 Reflex outfits for less than $400, and more likely $300. Video has killed most interest in 8mm, since video provides sound AND motion for a fraction of film costs. Yes, you can still get standard 8 film (it's a specialty item, since Kodak discontinued it for lack of significant consumer interest!), but it's a pain to locate and another pain to process. Doesn't this sound a little like my description of the Rolleis? Jim Shulman - -----Original Message----- From: owner-leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us [mailto:owner-leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us]On Behalf Of Mike Johnston Sent: Wednesday, October 25, 2000 7:49 AM To: leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us Subject: [Leica] Rolleiflexes > Rolleiflex TLR's are now the great buy in classic useable cameras. I agree. What bargains these are now. It is almost impossible to buy such workmanship in a new camera at any price. And so many of them are laughably cheap. I just *know* that in a few years the prices will iflate dramatically, and we will all be looking back on these days and shaking our heads. - --Mike