Newbie Advice on Buying Classic 500 cm

[limnoguy]

Sorry - hope this works?

 

[frog6284]

Ok, so do you know anywhere in the UK where I might be able to source a decent Hasselblas 500 c/m it doesnt have to be the "Classic 500" but I am on a limited budget, no more than £600 as I still have to finish paying for my last camera.

Thanks again guys

Laura

 

[najobskalf]

Try Ffordes Photographic at https://secure.ffordes.com/index.htm - their inventory changes all the time. However, do not be put off Ebay entirely: it's probably the best source as long as you are critical and careful.

 

[goofybird]

First, people like Q.G. know a lot more than I do, I am purely an amateur. That stated, I have bought all of my Hasselblad equipment on eBay - my suggestions would be more for comparison purposes - I would recommend (if your local eBay has it) to use the "advanced search" option to look for completed "Hasselblad 500 c/m" listings and see how much they have been selling for. Here in the U.S. I expect a kit like this (camera + lens + back) to sell from $600-800 US (they can sell for up to and above $1000). I bought mine one piece at a time and have a nice outfit that cost under $600, but I was very patient about it. I have noticed the A-12 film backs going for as low as $100 lately. The 80mm, f2.8 (C) lens goes from $200-400. and The body can go for anywhere from $150 to $400. I bid at the low end of these ranges and send the pieces to have them serviced before using them. I only buy from people who have good feedback ratings and haven't had any problems. After servicing my cost still under $1000, and (at least to me) the camera is as good as new and I hope to be able to use it for years.

Good luck - Ted

P.S. You might also look at the 500 EL/M or 500 EL/X (they both have motor drive and the X has ttl flash) - they tend to sell for lower prices than the c/m

 

[goofybird]

By the way, eBay item 220131565778 is a 500C/M (without lens) with a plaque with Victor Hasselblad's signature. (I have nothing to do with this auction, but the seller does have 100% positive feedback)...

 

[john_r_smith]

Laura

since you are in the UK (at Derby I see) then look at Ffordes web site for s/h Hasselblad. They are very competitive on price, you get a 10 day approval period with a no-quibble return policy (and I have sent stuff back several times with no problem) a six-month warranty on used gear which is worth a bit, and a brilliant next-day service by Royal Mail Special Delivery. At the moment they do not have a 500 C/M, though (two have just gone). I have no connection with Ffordes other than as a customer.

Best wishes

John

 

[john_r_smith]

Laura

There is currently a 500 C/M for £500 at Mifsuds -

http://www.mifsuds.com/usedpriceindexal.htm

They say it is in its original box, which sounds like a hopeful sign. I have dealt with them in the past, and have no complaints. They give a three-month warranty on used cameras. Your E-Bay camera is definitely not all it seems, as the lens is wrong for the camera body (as others have pointed out).

Best

John

 

[photoaddict]

Happy Hasselblad Ebayer here, I like what Ted had to say about Ebay and patience.

I found my 500C w/80mm (old style) for around $400. Ebay of course. It helped that it was listed in the incorrect category.

It works great.