Nikon Nikkor-O 35mm f/2 Pre-AI Review

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Introduction

August 2007

The Nikkor-O 35mm f/2 is another old Pre-AI lens for the Nikon F-Mount. These lenses need to be converted to work with Nikon's Dslr's. The conversion of these lenses is fairly easy to do (if you have the tools needed) The question is, is it worth it to convert this lens to fit today's cameras?

Specifications

Lens Construction: 8 elements in 6 groups

Picture Angle: °62(35mm)

Minimum focus distance: 0.3

Filter Size: 52mm

Lens Hood: HN-3

Included accessories: front cap, rear cap.

Size: dia 63.5mm, length 51.5mm

Weight: 280g

Diaphragm: 7 straight blades

Price from: $ Discontinued

Manufacturers web site: www.nikon.com

Positives

• Contrast.
  
• DOF/IR markings
  
• Close focus performance.

Drawbacks

• Infinity, this lens is way soft at infinity wide open.
  
• Ca wide open, by f/4 it's gone.

Verdict

Sweet spot of the lens is between f/4 and f/16.Close focus performance of this lens is outstanding. In my opinion it's not worth converting this lens. The Nikkor-O 35mm f/2 Pre-AI is pretty expensive still. The price difference between an Pre-AI and a AI lens is minimal.

Features
Performance
IR Performance
Build
Value

Alternatives

Nikon AF 35mm f/2.0D From: $299.95 USD

Nikon MF 35mm f/1.4 AIS From: $699.95 USD

Zeiss 35mm f/2 ZF Distagon T* From: $ 826.00 USD

Nikon AF Zoom Nikkor 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5D ED-IF From: $579.95 USD

Nikon AF-S Zoom Nikkor 17-35mm f/2.8D ED-IF From: $1,629.00 USD

*Prices and rebates are subject to change. Listed price is from July 26, 2009

Sample Pictures

Images have been imported to photoshop CS3 through Capture NX 2 thus leaving the original image settings as shot, I. E white balance, sharpening, etc .etc. Full resolution sample images are in RGB color mode. Check out my copyright page for information about usage of these images.