Rolleicord Vb

Buying Tips

The Rolleicord Vb is the last and most refined Rolleicord. High demand means prices are approaching lower-end Rolleiflex territory, so inspect carefully.

• LVS/EV coupling: The Vb features a light value system that couples aperture and shutter speed. Test that the coupling lever moves smoothly and that changing one setting correctly adjusts the other. A stuck or stiff coupling system is a significant repair.
• Selenium meter: Some Vb variants have a built-in selenium light meter. If present, test it against a known-good meter or phone app in various lighting conditions. Selenium cells degrade over time and cannot be repaired -- a dead meter is cosmetic only.
• Xenar lens: The Schneider Xenar 75mm f/3.5 is excellent. Inspect for haze, fungus, and cleaning marks. As the most sought-after Rolleicord, heavily used examples are common -- look closely at the front element under angled light.
• Shutter: The Synchro-Compur XV should fire accurately at all speeds from 1s to 1/500s. Test the slower speeds carefully -- they should hold open for the marked duration.
• Viewing hood and screen: The removable hood and interchangeable screens are a Vb feature. Check that the hood latches securely and that the ground glass is bright and free of scratches.
• White face variant: The 1970-77 white face version commands a small premium. Verify the faceplate is original and not a repaint -- original white face models have a consistent factory finish.

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