Hasselblad 501CM Medium Format Camera Body, Black with Waist Level Review

The Hasselblad 501CM is a legendary medium format film camera body known for its modular V-system design and exceptional build quality. This used example ships with a waist-level viewfinder and the Acute Matte D focusing screen, offering the classic square-format shooting experience that made Hasselblad the choice of studio photographers and fine-art shooters for decades. The 501CM features mechanical operation with electronic metering, interchangeable film backs, lenses, and finders, and a cloth focal-plane shutter rated to 1/1000s.

At $1,726 in bargain condition from KEH, this body sits at the accessible end of the Hasselblad V-system market. Bargain grade typically means visible wear but full functionality, making it a practical entry point for shooters prioritizing performance over cosmetics. The 501CM remains a workhorse for medium format film work, delivering sharp 6x6cm negatives and a deliberate, methodical shooting experience. It pairs well with Zeiss glass and remains fully supported by a robust used lens and accessory market.