Rolleiflex
Rolleiflex began making twin lens reflex cameras since 1929 but their first SLR camera was SL66. This camera offered studio controls like lens tilt, allowing picture taking with extreme depth of field. The design was unexpected, and it still is the only camera of its kind.
Rollei followed with Rollei SLX, a motor driven camera with instant return mirror, and electronic lens shutter, and electronic camera-lens interface. Rollei also produced 35 mm SLRs as well as compact cameras for 110 format, and a SLR for 126 cartridge film. More modern camera designs by Rollei are inspired by Braun's Dieter Rams.
SL66
Rolleiflex SL66 for 120 size (5.5x5.5 cm) film
Rollei's tilt capability is unique to this camera. This design utilized a slightly tilted spiral focusing cam that allowed focusing at any position.
The magazine in Rollei SL66 is loaded with film insert (right). The tilted focusing knob (left) turns a continuous spiral cam to drive the focusing gear. The tilt center is located below the focusing knob so the focusing action may continue even during tilts. The tilt function provides extreme depth of field in situations like photographing a railroad track.
Focusing
Knob
Tilt Lock Lever
Above, Rolei SL6 dissembled to reveal the focusing knob, focus rack and pinion, bellows assembly, and tilt locking knob. Below, back view of the camera revealing its cloth focal plane shutter, and shutter cocking assembly. Note use of rollers to guide its shutter curtain at the base of the camera. Rollei's shutter speed dial is behind the advance lever, and it engages with the shutter mechanism shown in gray.
Shutter Control
Mechanism