By: Tanya Palta
There are very few cameras in this world, that command reverence and admiration like a Hasselblad. The most desired camera by any self-respecting photographer. Owning a Hasselblad is not just an artistic coup, but is also the ultimate status symbol. Hence, it comes as no surprise that Hasselblad is universally recognized as being the Rolls Royce of cameras. The fact that the Hasselblad name is linked with cameras since almost the inception of photography and is still relevant in today’s digital age further adds to the charisma of the brand.
Today we will be putting the spotlight on the much coveted Hasselblad 30 Year Gold Edition, which was released in 1987 and celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Hasselblad 500C. The original Hasselblad 500C was introduced in 1957 by Victor Hasselblad AB, and it was a successor to the original focal plane shutter models, the 1600F and the 1000F.
The 500C was a revolutionary piece of equipment, since its shutter was inspired by Compur shutter, based on Zeiss Ikon’s Contaflex experience. It incorporated features like electronic flash synchronization at all shutter speeds, and automatic aperture stop down, something we take for granted today. The new design initially met with skepticism, however it wasn’t long before it became widely accepted and paved way for more innovative technical advancements.
As no one can doubt the importance of the Hasselblad 500C in the company’s history, it makes sense that they paid homage to it. And boy did they do it with style. The Hasselblad 30 Year Gold Edition is quite a vision and is an attractive mesh of glittering golds and brooding blacks. The special edition was limited to 1400 outfits and sometimes they pop up in classifieds or online sites like eBay. In fact, recently model # 659 was up for auction, where it was grabbed instantaneously in an exciting bidding war.
Hasselblad is legendary in photography circles and there is a certain aura around these medium-format cameras. Most professionals own one and everyone wants one, and no one can deny this. It is impossible not to be seduced by the Hasselblad mystique, as their cameras are sublime and the ultimate in photography. Yes I am a fan.
