Rollei SL 85

The Rollei SL 85 represents Rollei's ambitious entry into the competitive 135 format (35mm) single-lens reflex market in 1981. As a predominantly manual focus SLR, it aimed to bring Rollei's reputation for quality engineering to the mainstream film format, offering a robust metal body and a range of compatible lenses. Positioned as a premium alternative to established Japanese brands, it featured a sturdy construction typical of Rollei's higher-end products, with a full complement of exposure modes and a reliable shutter mechanism. Its introduction coincided with the peak of SLR popularity but came as Rollei faced increasing pressure from the mass market dominance of Japanese manufacturers, making it a significant, though ultimately challenging, diversification for the German company.