The Zenith 80 is a single lens reflex camera. It was built by Arsenal in Ukraine, then still part of the Soviet Union. The design of the camera was probably borrowed from a Hasselblad from the time. In the Soviet Union there was the model know as Salyut.
The camera is based on the cube-shaped housing with the mirror and the shutter. The viewfinder, the interchangeable film back and the lens are connected to it.
The Zenith 80 comes with interchangeable lenses. Lenses with a Hasselblad 1600 connector can be used with the camera. The Zenith 80 does not have an autofocus function. The focus is set manually trough the waist-level viewfinder.
The exposure must be measured externally. The medium format camera does not have an exposure meter. The desired f-stop number as well as the exposure time can be set by the user. The camera comes with a bulb mode. The medium format camera does not require batteries.
Films for the Zenith 80
The Zenith 80 exposes 120 films. Although the film format was presented many decades ago, there are still some companies which make fresh films. A possible film for color photography is the Kodak Portra 400*. One option for b/w images is the Ilford Delta 100*.
You have to think square with the Zenith 80. It takes pictures in 6×6 format. A 35mm film will fit around 36 photos. Photographing with the medium format camera requires a film change after 12 pictures. For the next frame of the film the camera has to be winded manually.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 120 |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Waist-level finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1/2 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Country of production | Soviet Union (USSR), Ukraine |
| Estimated value / Used price | 392,50 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 4 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 8, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 242,14 Euro (261.94 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 499,61 Euro (540.12 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Zenith 80
Is the Zenith 80 an automatic camera?
No, the Zenith 80 is a manual camera. It doesn't have autofocus or a built-in light meter. You have to manually set the aperture and shutter speed and determine the exposure separately.
What kind of film does this camera use?
The Zenith 80 uses 120 roll film, which is a medium format film. This produces 6x6cm square images, meaning you get fewer shots per roll compared to 35mm.
How many pictures can I take on one roll of film?
A 120 roll film will only allow you to take 12 shots in 6x6 format. Each shot is a larger, higher-quality image than with 35mm film.
Does the camera need batteries to work?
No, the Zenith 80 is completely mechanical. It doesn't require batteries for any of its functions, making it very reliable.
What type of lenses can I use with my camera?
The Zenith 80 uses interchangeable lenses. Lenses with a Hasselblad 1600 mount are compatible. The Industar-29 80mm f/2.8 is commonly found with this model.