Rollei Magic II

The Rollei Magic II, produced from 1962 to 1968, was a medium format twin-lens reflex (TLR) camera manufactured by Franke & Heidecke in Braunschweig, Germany. During its production period, approximately 12,600 units of the Magic II were sold, solidifying its popularity among photographers of that era.

It is a medium format twin-lens reflex (TLR) camera that boasts a robust construction and reliable functionality. Its distinctive dual lens system allows for precise composition and exceptional image quality. The camera features a taking lens and a viewing lens, both with a fixed focal length, providing a unique perspective on the scene.

The camera offered a versatile range of shutter speeds, ranging from 1/30 to 1/500 seconds, providing photographers with the flexibility to capture various types of scenes and subjects. Coupled with aperture settings from 3.5 to 22, the Magic II allowed for precise control over exposure and depth of field, ensuring that photographers could achieve their desired creative vision.

The Magic II incorporated the use of the Prontormat-S shutter, specially designed by the renowned shutter company Prontor to meet the demand for an automated exposure control system in a TLR camera. This innovation marked Rollei’s response to the evolving needs of photographers who sought greater convenience and accuracy in their photographic process.

The Magic II is equipped with a high-quality lens, such as the renowned Carl Zeiss Tessar, which offers exceptional optical performance. With a fixed focal length, typically around 75mm, the lens produces sharp and detailed images with excellent contrast and color accuracy. This lens choice ensures that photographers can capture their subjects with remarkable clarity and achieve the desired visual impact.

Similar to its predecessor, the Magic II utilized 120 type roll film, allowing for the capture of 12 square 6x6cm images on each roll. Notably, the Magic II distinguished itself from the Rolleiflex by employing front-cell focusing instead of moving the entire lens board. This design change aimed to address previous customer feedback regarding the lack of a manual speed control mechanism.

In response to these concerns, Rollei introduced the Rollei Magic II as a revised model, rectifying the lack of manual speed control and further enhancing the camera’s functionality. The Magic II aimed to provide photographers with an improved user experience and greater control over their photographic outcomes.