Rolleiflex 2.8D Planar

A twin lens reflex camera made in Germany,1955.

The Rolleiflex 2.8D is the coolest piece of technical equipment I have ever held in my hands. Undoubtedly the favorite among my cameras regardless of format. This marvel of engineering is just strikingly beautiful. Every little knob is made with a unique sense of detail. The design in itself is intuitive, but still nothing is as on a "normal" camera. It's like they went "aach.. never mind the extra hours, we'll do a lens cap of metal with an elaborate hinge mechanism, a real bayonet mount, chrome dials and with edges in black and white painting.." And that's only the lens cap!

Talking about design is one thing, and then you have the pictures... I think the sharp and rich images from this camera are completely stunning. It's not the easiest camera to handle due to the mirrored viewfinder image, but it's not that difficult after some practice. And you do get paid for the extra bit of hassle once you develop your film...

The 2.8 D-model was produced by Rollei from Aug. -55 to Sep. -56 in 20 100 pieces. This was the last Rolleiflex camera without a built in light meter. The 2.8F model is probably the most known and wanted Rolleiflex, but to be frank I really don't see the advantage of a 40-50 years old light meter that you can't trust anyway. The optics are more or less the same on my 2.8D, if not exactly the same as on the 2.8F. And without a light meter I guess you can cut your trouble-shooting guide to half the size.

Double lens, parallax adjustment.
Taking lens: Planar 1:2.8 / 80mm, bayonet III.
Viewing lens: Heidosmat 1:2.8 / 80mm.
Shutter: Compur Rapid MXV, 1 - 1/500 sec.
Dimensions: 10.5x9.9x14.6cm.
Weight: 1,140 grams.