PRESS: Retrospekt Transforms Classic Rollei 35mm Cameras Into 24K Gold Masterpieces
November 4, 2024
MILWAUKEE — Retrospekt, product design and development studio dedicated to creating unique experiences through new and refurbished retro tech products, is offering the royal treatment with its latest creation: a limited run of 24k gold-plated vintage Rollei 35 film cameras. These exquisite pieces marry an iconic 35mm camera design with a luxurious take on Retrospekt's signature restoration expertise.
Initially released in 1966, the Rollei 35 was lauded for its unparalleled compactness and high-quality optics, traits that still make it highly coveted by film photographers today. This little 35mm camera left an indelible mark on popular culture, from its use by Queen Elizabeth II to its appearance in Wes Anderson's "The Royal Tenenbaums.” Retrospekt's gold-plated version elevates this classic camera into a true collector's item. But not just an “on-the-shelf” collector’s item — a fully-restored, fully-functional piece of photographic history.
Each gold-plated camera begins its journey as an original, vintage Rollei 35 carefully sourced and inspected by Retrospekt's team of experts. The cameras are completely disassembled, with their internal mechanisms refurbished to ensure they function as flawlessly as they did when first manufactured. The exterior metal parts then undergo a 24k gold electroplating, resulting in a lustrous finish that transforms the camera into a beautiful – and functional – work of art. The electroplating process accentuates every detail of the Rollei 35's design, from the precisely engraved brand name to the intricate textures on the body. The gold finish brings new life to the camera's compact form and highlights its innovative design.
"The Rollei 35 represents a high point in camera engineering," said Retrospekt Creative Director Michael Kempen. "Our goal with this gold-plated version is to highlight the camera's inherent beauty while ensuring it remains a fully functional piece of photographic equipment. We've taken great care to preserve the essence of what makes the Rollei 35 special."
The camera is presented in a premium package befitting its status. Each is nestled in a matte black box with a magnetic closure, cushioned by precision-cut foam and accompanied by a specially designed leather case and wrist strap allowing you to carry your camera in style. Both the case and strap are fresh creations, modeled after the camera’s original accessories.
Full Resolution Photos and Other Assets
via Google Drive
(These assets are available for media use)
About Retrospekt
Retrospekt is a highly specialized workshop and product design studio in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, committed to exploring, restoring and curating retro technology. The company started its foray into the world of retro tech by supplying Polaroid with refurbished and restored vintage instant cameras and now offers a full line of vintage camera models in addition to developing official product collaborations with both national and international brands, such as Peanuts, Mattel, Sanrio and FENDI.
Since 2008, Retrospekt has pursued vintage electronics and the delight of analog technology, breathing new life into cameras, portable cassette players, classic gaming consoles and other retro tech oddities. Over the last decade, its team has saved over 300,000 devices with a comprehensive refurbishment process that faithfully restores each item to perform like it did the day it was originally manufactured.
In an increasingly fast-paced world, it can be easy for digital convenience to become digital overload. Retrospekt hopes the items they offer will allow people to slow down, step back and enjoy a more tactile and intentional experience. Visit Retrospekt.com for more information on the company and its offerings.
Media Contacts
Lexie Capperella, for Retrospekt
lexie@gregoryfca.com