Difference between lens of Hasselblad SWC/M models

ymc226 · Nov 19, 2009

I see there are SWC/M models that have the newer lens casing with the rubber focusing ring with the lens designation: Prontar CF T*.

There are also SWC/M models with the older lens casing (similar in look to the older SWC) with metal focusing ridges. The lens designation on those lenses are: Synchro-Compur T*.

What is the difference in performance, quality and worth when obviously buying used if similar in condition? I shoot mainly B&W.

dentkimterry · Nov 19, 2009

The lens elements are the same in all of them so performance is the same. Except for SWC with chrome lens barrels which do not have the T* multicoating. Models include Supreme Wide Angle and Super Wide 1954-59, SWC 1959-80, SWC/M modified to accept polaroid back 1980-81 with Synchro-Compur shutter, SWC/M with CF lens and Prontor shutter 1982-89, 903SWC 1989 until late 1990's. Last model 905SWC used different glass in the lens formula for environmental reasons. It was the lastest CFi lens design. All excellent cameras!

ymc226 · Nov 19, 2009

Thanks, on the older C lenses (not CF) what kind of filters (?screw in or bayonet) and shades are supposed to be used? I want to get a hood and a UV filter.

dentkimterry · Nov 19, 2009

The C series lenses use the 63 series filters. They are unthreaded and are held in place by a retaining ring (which may or may not come with the lens) or the 38 lens hood. The 38 lens hood are scarce and can be pricey!

Terry

Sirius Glass · Nov 19, 2009

dentkimterry said:
The C series lenses use the 63 series filters. They are unthreaded and are held in place by a retaining ring (which may or may not come with the lens) or the 38 lens hood. The 38 lens hood are scarce and can be pricey!

Terry

The square ones that you can get on eBay work well and are a lot cheaper.

Sirius Glass · Nov 19, 2009

Of all the models of the SWCs which is the best?

The 903 because that is what I have! [insert gloat here]

Steve

Jim Edmond · Nov 19, 2009

How well can the viewfinder be seen while wearing glasses?

Sirius Glass · Nov 19, 2009

Jim Edmond said:
How well can the viewfinder be seen while wearing glasses?

It works well with contact lenses or glasses. When I use an unaided eye, it is not so clear.

Steve

Q.G. · Nov 19, 2009

Sirius Glass said:
The square ones that you can get on eBay work well and are a lot cheaper.

But only fit the bayonet 60 mount lenses.
Not the C lens' Series 63 mount.

simples2000 · Oct 14, 2011

Hi TerryKimDent,
I read your comment about the difference in between SWC and SWC/M. Interesting. So, after the polaroid, which advantage does the Synchro-Compur shutter gives on the SWC/M? Thank you for the answer.
Cezaro

Leigh B · Oct 14, 2011

The Compur shutter was the original choice for the Hasselblad lenses (the C series, both the T* and the earlier non-T*).

When it ceased production, they switched to the Prontor shutter, and made other changes in the mechanical design that resulted in the CF product line. Most of the CF lenses are optically identical to their C T* predecessors.

The /M versions of the SWC and the 500 have user-changeable focusing screens.
In the earlier non-/M cameras the screens had to be changed by a technician with suitable instruments to set its position.

- Leigh

Sirius Glass · Oct 16, 2011

See: http://www.hasselbladhistorical.eu/HS/HSTable.aspx

And: http://www.stefanheymann.de/501cm/zeitleiste.htm

Steve

Difference between lens of Hasselblad SWC/M models

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