Hasselblad Xpan II

The Hasselblad Xpan II, produced from 1998 to 2003, represents a refined evolution of the original Xpan, designed for photographers seeking a compact solution to create panoramic images. Utilizing standard 120 medium format film, it delivered an exceptionally wide panoramic frame of 24 x 65mm, significantly wider than the standard 6x6cm format common in medium format cameras of the era. This unique capability was achieved through a specialized camera design featuring two fixed lenses – one for the panoramic frame and one for the standard 24x36mm frame, allowing the user to switch between formats on the same roll of film without changing backs. Built to a high standard typical of Hasselblad, the Xpan II offered manual controls and a rangefinder focusing system, targeting professional and serious amateur photographers desiring the quality of medium format with the convenience of a relatively compact body. Its primary significance lies in making panoramic photography accessible in a robust, handheld format using readily available 120 film.