DESIGN /
DIGITAL
January 15, 2015
HASSELBLAD | First Digital Single-Lens Mirrorless Camera "Lunar" to be Released in June
HASSELBLAD
Hasselblad's First Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Camera
Digital Mirrorless Camera "Lunar" Finally Released in June (1)
In 1969, it was the Swedish-made "Hasselblad 500EL" that enabled Commander Armstrong of Apollo 11 to capture humanity's first photographs on the moon. Hasselblad, beloved by photographers and camera enthusiasts worldwide, has embarked on a new product project named "Lunar." The digital mirrorless camera "Lunar," equipped with cutting-edge technology and Italian design, embodies ultimate luxury and is finally here. It will be released this June.
Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)
The Secret Story Behind Hasselblad's "Ultimate Luxury" Lunar
At Hasselblad's design center near Venice, Italy, under the direction of Luca Alessandrini, Manager of Business Development, the engineering and design teams tackled the development of a camera with a special and unique finish. Drawing inspiration from supercars, high-end luxury watches, and F1 technology, they created the Hasselblad "Lunar," which combines Italian design while inheriting its Swedish lineage.
The driving force behind this was Dr. Larry Hansen, the current Chairman and CEO of the Hasselblad Group. At the start of production, Dr. Hansen instructed the engineering and design teams to forget about the existing camera industry and seek inspiration elsewhere.
Dr. Hansen, himself a photographer, asserts that Hasselblad is likely the only company in the world that has created a camera that is easy to carry, takes superb photos, and boasts an astonishingly beautiful quality.
"The Lunar is the ultimate mirrorless camera for those who lead a lifestyle pursuing the very best. We haven't created a black box; we've created a camera that will grow with its users."
"The grip is made of leather or wood, promising a comfortable hold. It feels just like the leather of a familiar wallet, handbag, or the steering wheel of a luxury car," he comments.
HASSELBLAD
Hasselblad's First Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Camera
Digital Mirrorless Camera "Lunar" Finally Released in June (2)
The "Lunar," Hasselblad's first interchangeable lens mirrorless camera, was born from a collaboration with Sony. It delivers outstanding specifications, living up to Hasselblad's reputation.
A Sexy and Luxurious Masterpiece for Everyone
Founded in Gothenburg, Sweden, in 1941, Hasselblad was adopted for NASA's space program in 1962. A few years later, it captured the world-famous first photographs on the moon, and 13 units remain on the lunar surface today.
In 2002, it introduced the groundbreaking "H Camera System." It continues to be the world's most advanced medium-format digital camera system, receiving strong support from professionals.
The newly released mirrorless camera "Lunar" revives the timeless model "500C" with its smooth, rounded chrome finish. The innovative use of materials, in particular, results in a camera that is uniquely Hasselblad.
A major appeal of the "Lunar" is the choice of five types of handmade grips. For those who prefer a sexy and minimalist design, the light-resistant "Carbon" is recommended. For a unique design, choose the "Italian Wood" with a wax finish in natural olive or mahogany. Additionally, Tuscan leather in brown and black is available. The upper exterior also features bronze and titanium.
Furthermore, the "Lunar" offers a wealth of options to enhance photographic quality and user enjoyment. Beyond the aforementioned, customized models are also available. Options for gold or platinum finishes, engraving, and gemstones are also possible.
The "Lunar" is a sexy and luxurious masterpiece that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of gender. We highly recommend experiencing the camera firsthand at a designated Hasselblad dealer.
Larry Hansen
He assumed the position of Chairman and CEO of the Hasselblad Group in November 2009, with the motto "More creativity in photography."
Prior to becoming a non-executive director at Hasselblad in 2008, Dr. Hansen served as President and CEO of Carl Zeiss Japan Group and CEO of Carl Zeiss Asia Pacific, accumulating 26 years of top management experience in optical and optoelectronic companies. During his tenure at Carl Zeiss, from 1995 to 2008, he established a business partnership with Sony and also built cooperative relationships with Cosina and Kyocera.
Before becoming Chairman of the Hasselblad Group, Dr. Hansen also served as CEO of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, engaging in activities for "2020 VISION," a joint venture between the agency and the World Health Organization. Dr. Hansen has also actively promoted various initiatives to prevent rhino poaching in South Africa globally and established the "Award for Rhino Conservation." Fourteen years ago, he also established an award for tiger conservation in India through Carl Zeiss.
Digital Mirrorless Camera "Lunar"
Price | ¥651,000 (Standard Model)
Release | June 2013
Hasselblad
http://www.hasselblad.jp/