Rolleiflex 2.8GX questions

[drolight]

I have asked before about the use of a prism with a Rollei 2.8GX. I

know, I know, I should have gone in for a Hasselblad. But that issue

is moot as I find the Hassy to be as loud as a cymbal crash at a

funeral. Rolleis are quiet, thanks to a leaf shutter. So, getting

back to the Rollei ... which prism would you recommend? I like the

idea of a corrected and un-reveresed image when I shoot.

 

Other questions - I am paranoid that I am going to get the taking and

viewing lenses scratched. And given that I am not fond of the twist-

off lens cap that comes with the camera and wish to have the camera

ready at all times, what UV lenses do you recommend (bay III, I

assume)? I am eyeing B+W's. Or, do you recommend a lens shade (the

Rollei version is pricey!)?

 

Last question - Beattie screen or Maxwell screen? Why? Which specific

version of each would you recommend?

 

Thanks!

[jim_gifford]

<<the Rollei version is pricey>>

 

The Rollei version is beyond pricey, it is ludicrous. Get an adapter (a step-up ring) from Bayonet 3 to some more popular size, and screw in a hood for a lens with the appropriate angle of view. It might impinge on the viewing lens... but every time you see its shadow you'll say "I didn't pay $325 for a lens hood."

 

Be well,

[richard_laepple]

I think the Rollei itself is pricey. If I could afford such a camera I also would buy the accessoires that fit. Used sun shades, a lens caps, some filters etc. can be found at eBay.

[patric_dahl_n]

You don't have to buy a new sun shade. Buy a used metal bay III sun shade for $30-35 instead. The screen in the GX is very bright, so you don't need a Maxwell.

[mark_erickson]

Where can you get used bay III metal shades for $30-35?

[larry_benjamin]

Hi,

The old Rollei prisms will fit the GX fine, however most suffer from separation due to the canada balsam (the glue used to join compound glass components) degrading over the years. You can get one without separation but look to pay + US$400.

Ones with slight separation (normally at the edges) are quite functional. You will find that the old prisms block the LED light meter indicators on the GX but you can still see them (troublesome but usable with bright images,no problems otherwise.)

Some Rolleites shun the prisms as they add heft to a well balanced camera but my feelings are the image correction is a plus.

Viewfinder brightness will be somewhat degraded but usable in all situations other than very low light conditions.

You "could" swing for the modern prism but i find their cost prohibitive.

Cheers, Larry