8 replies to this topic

[daveFM2]

It was bundled with a FM2n I got off eBay. Both it the camera are in excellent condition. Not really familiar Nikon’s macro lenses.


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[Merco_61]

What version?

When it was introduced in the late 50-s, it had the highest optical resolution on the market. This is not surprising as it was developed under orders from the state archives to get a repro lens that could resolve individual brush hair strokes when reproducing calligraphy for the archives.

 

As it was bundled with an FM2 at auction, it is probably a factory Ai or AiS lens. The Ai 55/3.5 has no weaknesses, the AiS 55/2.8 might need a CLA even if it seems to be in very good condition as the aperture can get sticky and not close down as fast as it should when the grease in the mechanism breaks down. This grease was changed to a new, less stable formula sometime in early 1980 and was in use for some years. I have read from some sources that a S/N over 800001 should have modern grease as well as a redesign to keep it where it should be.

 

It is a versatile lens as you can see here.

It doesn't go all the way to 1:1 without 27.5 mm extension, but a used PK-13 shouldn't be difficult to find.

[Nikon Shooter]

It was bundled with a FM2n I got off eBay. Both it the camera are in excellent condition. Not really familiar Nikon’s macro lenses.

 

I still have one of these stupendous lenses which I used
mainly on the copy stand… in the days.

A tad too short for macro work because of the proximity
but great for copying slides for example.

I don't use it any more — for sale! — as I replaced it by
the AF 60 mm macro.

[daveFM2]

Thanks for the info the serial number is 34xxxx. The barrel extension is smooth, if not slightly stiff. I much prefer having it stiff than loose. The aperture ring is crisp and clicks loudly from stop to stop. The blades likewise perform well.


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[Manwithacam]

I've just been using my Micro-Nikkor 55/2.8 on my Nikkormat EL today, my Micro-Nikkor 60/2.8 AF-S G ED usually lives on my F100. Mine is a 509xxx and still working perfectly.

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[Nikonsince1972]

My 55mm f/2.8 AIS Micro Nikkor, circa 1986 is STILL one of the sharpest lenses I own. Many of my best macro images have been taken with it. It also works superbly on my PB-6 bellows.

[nikonFILMuser]

The Over 90 year old Fellow Camera Club member who gave me a load of gear including the Black Paint FM had a 55mm f2.8 Micro-Nikkor attached Serial Number : 240190 -- must be an early one but SO FAR no 'Grease' problems 

Nikon FM with Micro-Nikkor by Peter Elgar, on Flickr

[Merco_61]

The Over 90 year old Fellow Camera Club member who gave me a load of gear including the Black Paint FM had a 55mm f2.8 Micro-Nikkor attached Serial Number : 240190 -- must be an early one but SO FAR no 'Grease' problems 
Nikon FM with Micro-Nikkor by Peter Elgar, on Flickr

Not *that* early. The serial numbers started around 179xxx. It probably has the less stabile grease, but as long as it works it is a nice lens. Many of these lenses were given a better grease during a CLA while they still were professional tools.

[nikonFILMuser]

Thanks Mate -- you have a WEALTH on NIKON knowledge  into which I will 'Tap' from time to time ! 

Best -- Peter