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Non/pre ai lens on D700
#1
Posted 09 October 2019 - 08:08 AM
I’ve recently purchased a D700 and would like a little advice please. I have in my lens collection a 28, 35, & 50mm pre ai scalloped focus ring collection. I also have a Nikon D5300 and the aforementioned pre ai lenses fit without any issues, regarding the tab on the body mount.
I love these old lenses and was hoping I could use them too with my D700, I’ve since read that because there is no cutout on a pre ai, I may risk breaking/damaging the tab on the D700’s mount.
Seems strange that my lower end D5300 will accept these but a higher end model like the D700 won’t.
Any help, much appreciated
Nige
#2
Posted 09 October 2019 - 09:08 AM
The D5300 doesn't have the Ai coupling prong, so there is nothing to break. The D700 on the other hand does have the prong and forcing a pre-Ai lens will either damage the prong or even warp the contact trace in the lens mount. Converting the aperture ring using either a file or an end mill isn't difficult and there are lots of how-tos to find on the web. The only FX body that can handle unmodified pre-Ai lenses is the Df, and the stop-down metering procedure is a hassle.
#3
Posted 09 October 2019 - 10:08 AM
#4
Posted 09 October 2019 - 10:23 AM
What version are the lenses? The O-Nikkor 35/2 and the N-Nikkor 35/1.4 are among the nicest Nikon lenses of all time. The S•C 50/1.4 is good enough that you need the AF-S 58/1.4 or the NOCT to get better results from a Nikon normal. Any of those three are worth converting or having them converted. I am not familiar enough with the 28-s to have an opinion as I tend to use a 24 when the 35 is too tight.
#5
Posted 09 October 2019 - 10:30 AM
#7
Posted 09 October 2019 - 12:53 PM
#8
Posted 09 October 2019 - 01:00 PM
Fantastic photos! I’ve sourced a service on eBay from a guy who will modify non ai to ai. I’ve read his reviews and he’s had excellent feedback. The cost is very reasonable too £23 per lens that’s including postage.
Thanks!
It is an easy lens to like as the transition from sharp to unsharp is so pleasing. It is the perfect companion to a black 105/2.5 or the Ai version that shares the same optics as that lens has a similar transition.
#9
Posted 09 October 2019 - 01:16 PM
#10
Posted 09 October 2019 - 01:27 PM
The 35 still works well on film too.
36 on 35, an art project. Part 1, day 1-12 - NikonForums.com
36 on 35, an art project. Part 2, day 13-24 - NikonForums.com
36 on 35, an art project. Part 3, day 25-36 - NikonForums.com
- Gibson67 likes this