Hasselblad 555 ELD (1998–2006)
The Hasselblad 555 ELD is a motorized medium-format SLR introduced in 1998. It's essentially the last of the motor-drive 6×6 bodies, built for both film and the early digital backs that were just beginning to appear. The "ELD" in the name refers to the Electronic Databus connection - a control connector on the body that allows automatic, direct communication with a digital back. One period description called it "the ideal studio camera for film and digital photography."
Mechanically, it's pure V-series. The 555 ELD takes all C, CB, CF, CFi, and CFE lenses on the Hasselblad V mount, and it uses the usual interchangeable magazine, viewfinder, and focusing screen system. The leaf shutter runs from 1s to 1/500s with full flash sync at every speed. The OTF flash metering is center-weighted and reads a 40mm-diameter area. Film speed range is ISO 64-4000. The body came in black or chrome, and it runs on AA batteries. The layout will look familiar to anyone who has used a Hasselblad from the early 1970s onward. The 555 ELD is built like a tank, simple and straightforward, and it handles the traditional V-series lenses exactly as you'd expect.
Production numbers were modest - only about 2,700 units are believed to have been made - and the model ran until 2006. The chrome version shows up at auction in mint condition with its acute mat focusing screen and original box, often described as a "rare last motor drive version." Prices on the used market have been reported anywhere from $700 to $900, though condition and included glass vary widely. An optional IR receiver was available for remote triggering.
The 555 ELD is a hybrid-era camera. It was designed with digital backs in mind, which is the whole point of the ELD connection, and it's often described as the last 6×6 Hasselblad made with the film-oriented photographer in mind. LENS-DB.COM (period listing) called it "the latest addition to the extensive Hasselblad medium format camera line," positioning it as the bridge between the traditional V system and the H system that followed. Service documentation exists, but parts have been discontinued, and calibration is recommended after any repair.
Known specs, in brief:
- Motorized 6×6 medium-format SLR, Hasselblad V mount
- Leaf shutter: 1s to 1/500s, full flash sync
- Film speed: ISO 64–4000
- OTF center-weighted flash metering, 40mm measured area
- ELD electronic databus connector for digital backs
- All C, CB, CF, CFi, and CFE lenses compatible
- AA battery power
- Introduced 1998, produced until 2006; ~2,700 units made
- Black or chrome finish
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