Franke & Heidecke Rolleiflex 3.5E

I paid US$350 for my Rolleiflex 3.5E with a Xenotar lens about five years ago. I use this camera regularly for black and white photography and the results have been exceptionally good. I have replaced the focusing screen with a brighter screen since I bought the camera, but otherwise have experienced no problems. I also have a cheaper Rolleiflex T with the four-element Zeiss Tessar lens, and use this just as regularly. Naturally, I make comparisons. I seldom take photographs at apertures wider than f5.6, so have not noticed any difference in the quality of photographs taken by both cameras. The Xenotar and Tessar are equally sharp and contrasty in the f5.6 - f16 range, though the controls on the Rolleiflex 3.5E are generally easier and quicker to use. Assuming a preference for mid-range apertures and a choice between a Rolleiflex 3.5E and a Rolleiflex T camera of very similar condition, I would therefore rate the cheaper Rolleiflex T as the slightly better buy.