Hasselblad focusing screens

[Kate Mocak]

I have an opportunity to buy a Hasselblad 500C but it doesn't have a split-image focusing screen, just an ordinary one (which I have a difficulty to focus with).

Is it possible to replace the focusing screen in this model?

[jjstafford]

Yes it is possible. With care you can do it youself. There are probably very thin shims below the screen do not lose them. That said, a camera repair pro can change them quickly.

[mikebarger]

I had David Odess install a brightscreen in my 500C and it is amazing how much better it is.

Mike

[Ed Sukach]

Say whut? I have two 503Cx's - same camera with the internal flash sensor .. and there are no shims anywhere. Hasselblad, for years, has made interchangeable screens.... save for the automatic metering cameras (200 Series) that require a cut-out in the screen to allow viewing of the meter display). These new screens work perfectly on the 500 series.

A "Camera Technician" necessary?

1. Remove the magazine and slide the focusing hood/ prism/ whatever is on there - to the rear - and remove it.

2. Depress the two tabs on either side of the viewing screen.

3. Turn the camera upside down and allow the focusing screen to drop into your hand.

4. Install the new/ other screen in the reverse order.

[mikebarger]

Jim

The 500C did not have interchangable screens (except the transition to CM bodies). All 500CM's forward do indeed have this ability.

Mike

[mikebarger]

Ed

Your equipment is just to new

Mike

[jjstafford]

Say whut? I have two 503Cx's - same camera with the internal flash sensor .. and there are no shims anywhere. Hasselblad, for years, has made interchangeable screens....

He has a 500c. It does not feature interchangable screens. Nuff said.

[skahde]

Is it possible to replace the focusing screen in this model?

It can be done but it is not for free and an old 500c is likely to need an overhaul which may also add to the price. In the current market it may be a better idea to wait just a little untill a camera shows up which exactly fits your needs.

Stefan

[Ed Sukach]

Ed

Your equipment is just too new

Mike

Zounds!!! You mean ... I was ... wrong?!?!? How could that be?

Ah, well ... First I apologize. Second ... I've just had a lesson in the longevity of Hasselblads. I should have realized that there are 1000s and 1600s still in use - never mind early 500s.

I'm off to the nearest corner, with my security blanket.

[jjstafford]

It can be done but it is not for free and an old 500c is likely to need an overhaul which may also add to the price. In the current market it may be a better idea to wait just a little untill a camera shows up which exactly fits your needs.

Stefan

That's bullshit because it presumes the worst from an uninformed, inexperienced view. Any competent individual can swap out a 500c screen.