An ultimate of Hassselblad Super Wide C and 903swc, Biogon 4.5/38mm lens

The cameras I used to test in this video are from the 900 Series prototype. They are the inspiration behind the current digital 907X. The Hasselblad Super Wide C was made in 1961. It’s the 1st generation of the SWC series (1959–1968). The lens on this one is not the T* coated version yet. The Hasselblad 903 SWC was made in 1996. It’s the 7th generation of the SWC series (1988–2001). It uses the T* multi-layer coated lens. There’s about a 35-year age gap between these two cameras. As we all know, every new camera generation is built with more modern manufacturing technology. The same goes for lens technology. It’s certain that later models will have better lens performance, stronger and more durable bodies, and easier handling. When comparing film shots from both cameras, I believe you can clearly see the difference. The 903 SWC is sharper. The colors and tonal details look more natural. But remember, we’re talking about some of the best lenses in the world here. The Biogon C-type lens, which has been made since 1958, was already excellent when it was first designed and produced. When I tested both with a digital back, the results were surprisingly close, even with a 35-year difference between the lenses. I believe the Hasselblad Natural Color Solution software (HNCS) in the CFV digital backs plays a big role here. It helps process images from both lenses and corrects some flaws, like color shifts. It improves light quality and overall lens performance. That’s why the results from testing both cameras are only slightly different. The images from the 903 SWC have about 5–10% more color saturation and sharpness when viewed at 100% zoom on both photos. It’s barely noticeable to the naked eye. Both models were designed and built in different eras. Each one has its own character and its own kind of beauty. I believe if you have a passion for, or experience with, either of these cameras, you’ll be happy shooting with either one. My intention is not to say which camera or lens is better. I just want to present this honestly. Because at the end of the day, photography is about storytelling. It’s not only about sharpness or which colors look better. Hasselblad makes cameras so that everyone can take great photos. Everyone deserves to have good pictures and good memories in those photos. You don’t have to be a professional photographer to own one. Happiness should belong to everyone. Thank you so much for watching all the way to the end. Please share your thoughts in the comments below. John Kasawa July 5, 2026 --- #hasselbladswc #hassselblad903swc #hasselbladsuperwidec