Right up front; full disclosure here: this gold-plated Rollei 35 costs more than the Mint Camera Rollei 35AF. While the Rollei 35AF is $800/$830 for the chrome/black models, respectively, the Gold Rollei 35 is $1,000. But is a difference of $200 worth it? Absolutely, YES, because it’s GOLD and this vintage Rollei 35 features the original camera’s build quality.
In terms of the precious metal coating, this Rollei 35 “Retrospekt 24K Gold Edition” 35mm Camera features a 24-karat gold plating that is a “99.7% purity,” but, in spite of this fancy finish, it could still have some scratches here and blemishes there. Along with the visually-stunning camera, you’ll receive a specially-made camera bag, various lens attachments, and a brief user manual all housed inside a bespoke presentation box.
All that Glitters IS Gold
While you’re probably begging to know the exact Rollei 35 model that you’ll be receiving for your gold-plated investment, Retrospekt states that it could be “any one of four different versions:”
- Version 1 – German-made, Carl Zeiss Tessar 40mm ƒ3.5 in Compur shutter
- Version 2 & 3 – Singapore-made, Carl Zeiss Tessar 40mm ƒ3.5, or Schneider Kreuznach Xenar 40mm ƒ3.5 in Compur shutter
- Version 4 – Singapore-made, Rollei Tessar 40mm ƒ3.5 in Copal shutter
Please note: If the vintage Rollei 35 version is an important influence on your purchase, please contact Retrospekt prior to purchase and ask for additional camera model information.
Regardless of which version you receive, each purchase has been “meticulously” refurbished by Retrospekt and features a 30-day return/refund policy, plus a 90-day warranty. This warranty is defined as “vintage refurbished.” Finally, it should come as no surprise that there is a limited number of these “Retrospekt 24K Gold Edition” 35mm Cameras available for purchase.
If you like the idea of a gold camera, but the Rollei 35 doesn’t fit in your camera collection aspirations, then consider another golden oldie from Retrospekt, the SX-70 Sonar Autofocus “Retrospekt 24K Gold Edition” Instant Film Camera now on sale for $800. Sharing many similarities with the Rollei 35 gold plating process, unique packaging, and vintage refurbished warranty, this Polaroid SLR instant camera can be fitted for SX-70 film or customized for Polaroid 600 film. This film format modified version costs $850; that’s a premium extra charge of $50 for the modification. Either way, you will now have an investment in your photographic future.
Enjoy.
