Camera · Medium format
Bronica SQ-A / SQ-Ai
1982-2003
Discontinued120IntermediateAdvanced
Budget Hasselblad alternative
- Format
- 120
- Mount
- BRONICA SQ
- Metering
- None
- Shutter
- 1/500 (SQ-A); 16s
- Battery
- SQ-A: 4SR44 / PX28 (6V) x1; SQ-Ai: 4 x LR44 (1.5V). Needed to fire the electronic shutter; mechanical 1/500 without it
- Weight
- 1500g
Battery req.
Max speed
Best for
- Budget Hasselblad alternative
- Studio photography
- Portrait work
- Those wanting modular medium format
Features
- 6x6 square format
- Modular system (backs, finders, lenses)
- Electronically controlled Seiko #0 leaf shutters (fires at 1/500 without battery)
- Flash sync at all speeds
- Multiple back options
Limitations
- Bronica no longer exists, so no manufacturer support
- Parts increasingly scarce
- Less prestige than Hasselblad
Common issues to check
- Back interlock problems
- Lens shutter issues
- Light seal deterioration
- Film advance problems
Buying guide
The SQ series was Bronica's 6x6 system (introduced 1980; SQ-A 1982), a lower-cost rival to the Hasselblad V system. The SQ-Ai extended the slowest shutter speed to 16 seconds. Zenzanon-S and PS lenses are affordable. Test the back/body interlock carefully. SQ-Ai production ended in September 2003, so spares come from used equipment.
Pricing
- Typical range
- £400 - £800
- Excellent condition
- ~£1000
Complete kit. Indicative, no dated source.
Prices as of 2025-12. UK market, may vary.
Specifications
| Format | 120 |
| Years produced | 1982-2003 |
| Mount | BRONICA SQ |
| Shutter type | Leaf |
| Shutter speeds | 8s - 1/500 (SQ-A); 16s - 1/500 (SQ-Ai) |
| Flash sync | all speeds |
| Metering | None |
| Battery required | Yes (SQ-A: 4SR44 / PX28 (6V) x1; SQ-Ai: 4 x LR44 (1.5V). Needed to fire the electronic shutter; mechanical 1/500 without it) |
| Weight | 1500g |
| Dimensions | 92 x 109 x 179mm (with 80mm lens, 120 back and waist-level finder) |