SL66 vs SL66E lenses - what is the difference?

Rollei SL66 and SL66E lenses - what is the difference? Automatic

diaphragm or something else? What would and would not work when SL66

lens is mounted on SL66E? How do I tell if lens is for SL66E? I've

heard SL66 lenses can be modified - how much does it usually cost and

how long does it take?

 

Thanks!

As an ex SL66 owner, I can tell you that the E lenses have a coupling lug for the metering system in the SL66E. The diaphragms are the same. As for modification, I know Rollei used to do it but am not sure that they still do. Contact Marflex in NJ for that. Another good source of information for the SL66 series is Hadley Chamberlain in California at hecphoto.com.

 

I don't know if it is possible to use an SL66 lens on the SL66E as far as any metering functions, but maybe they could be used for picture taking and you could use a handheld meter? I am sure some E owners can help on that one.

First answer: Metering with sl66 lens on sl66e: YES! you will measure always stopped down. automatic diaphragm works but has nothing to do with metering. the difference between sl66 lens and sl66e lens is an additional ring near the bayonett so simulate the actual stop setting for metering.

another difference might be HFT-coating on newer sl66e lenses which is supposed to improve lens performance compared to those without HFT when shooting against light. (I actually don't know because I only have HFT lenses)

 

Prices for updating old lenses should be approx. 50 to 150 EURO. How long does it take? I dont know, it depends on your local Rollei service.

Actually, I've recently purchased SL66E and I currently have 50, 80 and 120mm lens. When I rotate the diaphragm ring on 50 and 80mm lens (when the lens is mounted on the camera), I see that meter reacts by lighting different LEDs, but the diaphragm blades stay open. When I remove lens from the camera, diaphragm opens and closes when I rotate the ring. 120mm lens is different - the diaphragm always responds to the movement of the ring, no matter if lens is mounted on the camera or not. That's what confuses me.

Hallo Mikhail,

just compare the backend of your 80mm with the 120mm. If both show the same mechanical parts especially a silver, nearly circular notch, which controls the aperture, then try smooth motion with your 120mm. You will understand very easy, how aperture control and simulation works. If something does not move properly, you will have to repair it.

 

If the 120mm is different from your 80mm then it probably does not have an auto aperture function (actually I don't know wether such kind of lens existed for the sl66)