Rolleiflex 4x4 ('Baby Rollei')
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| Style, film format | Twin-lens reflex using 127 roll film |
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| Lens, shutter | Coated 60mm f/3.5 Schneider-Kreuznach Xenar, Synchro-Compur |
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| Photo quality | Excellent |
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| Ergonomics | Viewfinder must be open to take a photo; uses EV system; image is laterally reversed in viewfinder |
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Nearly everyone loves this camera the first time they see it. It's one of those cameras that elicits the "cute" comment.
At about 2/3 the size of its 120-film sibling, the Baby Rollei – as it's affectionately known – is probably closer to a Rolleicord than a Rolleiflex. Regardless, it's a fine camera.
It copies the classic twin-lens design, down to the sharp coated Schneider-Kreuznach Xenar lens sitting in the Synchro-Compur shutter. The camera uses the EV system, locking the aperture and shutter-speed dials. You can always ignore the EV system.
The limited availability of 127 film today hurts its appeal, but that shouldn't stop you from using this camera if you are lucky enough to own a Baby Rollei.
I've run some Efke 100 black and white film with good effect. The photos were sharp and contrasty. Very impressive – just as I would expect from a Rolleiflex.
The first Baby Rollei arrived well before World War II. Postwar, I've seen two versions. One with black leather and the one seen above with gray (although it looks green) leather.
I have to say that I find the black leather model to be more handsome. Like all cameras that carry the Rolleiflex name, collectors have pushed up the price of this camera.