Nikon made two identical models of this lens, the first starting in 1961 with serial numbers 171- and a second with better smoother front housing ending in 1970 (serial numbers starting with 181-, more desirable than the first). A more desirable and compact version of this lens had a permanent aperture scale of f/11 was introduced in 1968 and remained in production until 1977 when it became a very successful AI lens (1977-1984).
In the heading you describe the lens as an AI lens. Are you sure it is? The description in the provided site imply to me it is not compatible with anything aside from film F series.
Leon S wrote:
In the heading you describe the lens as an AI lens. Are you sure it is? The description in the provided site imply to me it is not compatible with anything aside from film F series.
I was wondering the same thing. Years ago I had one on my Nikon FTN, It wasn't a very good lens. I got rid of it within a month. Reflex lenses never really caught on. A good telescope would do better.
Leon S wrote:
In the heading you describe the lens as an AI lens. Are you sure it is? The description in the provided site imply to me it is not compatible with anything aside from film F series.
As I indicated in my earlier comment, the mirror Nikon 500mm, f/8 first appeared as an AI model in 1977. The one for sale is a Non-AI from 1961-1970. These early lenses are notoriously difficult to focus but when in focus they are very sharp. Besides, Nikon produced very few of them and as a result they are much sought after by collectors.
Old Al
Loc: Litchfield County, Connecticut
good morning: bought one in 1969, used it on all the apollo landings in the pacific, sorry i sold it.
Have seen a number go on ebay, not a practical lens as the nearest focus is over 50 feet, a little known fact, and as a manual focus lens, hard to hold and shoot at the same time (used a cable release set in a cut plastic dental floss holder placed between my front teeth). That being said, what is your friend's best price? I expect the lens surfaces are all ok.
Thanks,
old Al (awarden@mac.com) (203) 770-7228 (cell)
I will forward your note to him and get his response. I really do not know his "bottom line". Thanks for your interest. The glass looks fine.
Mark
Old Al wrote:
good morning: bought one in 1969, used it on all the apollo landings in the pacific, sorry i sold it.
Have seen a number go on ebay, not a practical lens as the nearest focus is over 50 feet, a little known fact, and as a manual focus lens, hard to hold and shoot at the same time (used a cable release set in a cut plastic dental floss holder placed between my front teeth). That being said, what is your friend's best price? I expect the lens surfaces are all ok.
Thanks,
old Al (awarden@mac.com) (203) 770-7228 (cell)
good morning: bought one in 1969, used it on all ... (
show quote)
Do you have any pictures of the actual lens? Would like to see the front element and barrel for scuffs or fungus. I already have a Nikkor 500mm f8, is a really sharp lens.
Yes. I've attached 3. The lens is not mine. I listed it for a friend. I've attached some photos. He is in possession of the lens. The lens was listed on EBay - did not sell. I can take some additional photos upon request.
Mark
Photoflash57 wrote:
Do you have any pictures of the actual lens? Would like to see the front element and barrel for scuffs or fungus. I already have a Nikkor 500mm f8, is a really sharp lens.
Couple more. I'll see my friend on Wed. Please let me know if you would like additional photos by Monday PM. The lens is in excellent shape. The strap on the case is detached (hanging).
Thanks,
Mark
Photoflash57 wrote:
Do you have any pictures of the actual lens? Would like to see the front element and barrel for scuffs or fungus. I already have a Nikkor 500mm f8, is a really sharp lens.
Forgot to add. According to the serial number, as far as I could ascertain, It is one of the earliest f5's produced. Notice the serial number ends in 002!!
Mark
Photoflash57 wrote:
Do you have any pictures of the actual lens? Would like to see the front element and barrel for scuffs or fungus. I already have a Nikkor 500mm f8, is a really sharp lens.
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