Hasselblad Lunar, Mirrorless Compact Digital Camera with APS Sensor, Set to Launch

The Hasselblad Lunar is being prepared for lift-off. An Italian-designed posh MILC (Mirrorless interchangeable-lens compact camera), the Lunar is built around an APS CMOS sensor, and is constructed of precious metals, woods and other material. Not surprisingly, the camera will not be inexpensive: It will cost 5000 Euros (around $6,530). Hasselblad didn’t need to create a special lensmount; instead, the company has partnered, unexpectedly, with Sony, and the Lunar will accept E-Mount lenses. That’s the mount on Sony’s NEX line of MILCs. In fact, the sensor’s specs seem remarkably similar to one of Sony’s most popular sensors. Hmmm…

Inspired by the U.S. space program, of which it was an integral part, Hasselblad named their camera Lunar. Key features include:

• 24.3MP APS-C sensor
• 25 autofocus points
• Real-time image processing and “accurate RAW to JPEG translation”
• 3-inch HD LCD monitor
• OLED viewfinder
• Full HD in Auto or full manual mode
• External microphone jack
• Accommodation for A-mount lenses for video
• Virtually no shutter lag (0.02 sec)
• 10fps
• ISO range 100-16,000
• Auto HDR
• Tri-Navi system for DSLR settings
• Intelligent face registration
• Anti-dust system

The Hasselblad Lunar is expected to be available in the first quarter of 2013. Look for it at the Hasselblad store at Adorama.