Nikon Nikkor 35mm f/2.8 Pre-AI Review

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Introduction

August 2007

From the serial number this lens was made in the mid to late 70's. It is a Pre-AI Nikkor lens, and has been modified to work with newer cameras, I.e. it has been AI'D. So the question is; is it worth it to convert this lense to fit today's Nikon cameras?

Specifications

Lens Construction: 6 elements in 6 groups

Picture Angle: °62(35mm)

Minimum focus distance: 0.3m

Filter Size: 52mm

Lens Hood: HN-3

Included accessories: front cap, rear cap.

Size: dia 63.5mm, length 44.5mm

Weight: 240g

Diaphragm: 7 straight blades

Price from: $ Discontinued

Manufacturers web site: www.nikon.com

Positives

• Build quality
  
• IR/DOF markings

Drawbacks

• Soft wide open, gets sharper @ f/4, good sharpness @ f/5.6
  
• Hot-spot @ f8 with IR

Verdict

In my opinion it's not worth it to convert this lens to today's cameras. Especially since you can get the AI version for less then $100 USD second hand. The lens is soft @ f/2.8, it gets pretty sharp @ f/4, and it's excellent from f/5.6 to f/11. Note that the lens performs better at close range then infinity.

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.