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Rolleicord IV

Continued evolution with reliable Xenar optics.

1953–1954 6x6 on 120 film Made in Braunschweig, Germany
Rolleicord IV twin-lens reflex camera

Photo: Hiyotada · CC0 · Source

Specifications

Taking LensSchneider Xenar 75mm f/3.5
Viewing LensHeidosmat 75mm f/3.2
Lens Elements4
ShutterSynchro-Compur MX
Shutter Speeds1s - 1/500s + B
Light MeterNone
Filter MountBay I
FocusingKnob advance
  • First Xenar-only model
  • M and X flash sync
  • Short production run

History

The Rolleicord IV continued the line's tradition of offering excellent Schneider Xenar optics in a more affordable package than the Rolleiflex. The Xenar's sharp rendering made it a favorite of budget-conscious professionals.

Collector Notes

Short-lived model. First to use only Xenar lenses.

Buying Tips

The Rolleicord IV offers the Xenar lens as standard, making it a solid shooter at a fair price. Here is what to look for.

  • Lens cleaning marks: Examine the front element closely under an angled light. Heavily used examples often show fine scratches from improper cleaning -- light marks are cosmetic but deep scratches reduce contrast and flare resistance.
  • Shutter accuracy: The Synchro-Compur MX shutter should fire cleanly at all speeds from 1s to 1/500s. Hesitation or inconsistency at slower speeds is common and usually fixed with a CLA.
  • Xenar lens condition: Hold the taking lens up to a light and look for internal haze, fungus, or element separation. The Xenar is an excellent 4-element design when clean.
  • Flash sync: If you plan to use flash, test both M and X sync contacts with a flash unit or sync tester. Corroded contacts are repairable but add to your total cost.
  • Film transport: Advance the film mechanism through several cycles. It should move smoothly with consistent spacing. A short production run means fewer parts cameras are available if something is worn.

See our complete TLR buying guide for a full inspection checklist.

Current Market Prices (USD)

ConditionPrice Range
Poor$80 – $140
Average$140 – $220
Good$220 – $320
Excellent$320 – $450
Mint$450 – $600

Source: eBay 2024

Shop for Rolleicord IV on eBay

Manuals & Documentation

Photo Galleries

More Rollei TLR Cameras

Rolleiflex Original (6x6), Rolleicord I (Art Deco), Rolleicord II, Rolleiflex Automat, Rolleicord III, Rolleiflex 2.8C, Rolleicord V, Rolleiflex 2.8D, Rolleiflex 2.8E, Rolleiflex 3.5E, Rolleicord Va, Rolleiflex 3.5F, Rolleiflex T, Tele-Rolleiflex, Rolleiflex 2.8F, Wide-Rolleiflex (Rolleiwide), Rolleicord Vb

Shoot with your Rolleicord IV

TLR Companion is a free light meter app and film roll tracker built for TLR and medium format photographers. Meter light, load film, track every frame.

Planning a long exposure? TLR Companion handles ND filter compensation and reciprocity correction for 19 film stocks.