Nikon Nikkor Non-AI 55mm f/3.5 Micro
The Nikon 55mm f/3.5 Micro is a 55mm f/3.5 lens designed for Nikon F mount cameras. Used copies start from $39.99 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Nikon Nikkor Non-AI 55mm f/3.5 Micro
Used Nikon 55mm f/3.5 Micro Listings on GearFocus
Lens Overview — Nikon 55mm f/3.5 Micro
Key Features — Nikon 55mm f/3.5 Micro
55mm Macro Prime: A fixed 55mm focal length in the standard range, usable for both close-up macro work and everyday general-purpose photography.
1:2 Macro Capability: Achieves half life-size reproduction natively, with full 1:1 life-size available when paired with the dedicated PK-13 extension ring.
f/3.5 Maximum Aperture: A moderate maximum aperture that balances light transmission with a compact, lightweight optical design.
Manual Focus Only: Fully manual focus operation suits the slow, deliberate approach that close-up and macro photography typically demands.
Non-AI Nikon F Mount: Predates Nikon's Automatic Maximum Aperture indexing system, so compatibility and metering support on modern bodies should be confirmed before purchase.
Full-Frame Coverage: Designed to cover the full 35mm frame, making it compatible with both full-frame film bodies and compatible digital Nikon F mount cameras.
Lens Specifications — Nikon 55mm f/3.5 Micro
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Macro, Product, Creative Effects |
| Lens Type | Macro |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Zoom/Prime | Prime |
| Focal Length | 55mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/3.5 |
| Camera System | DSLR |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F |
| Autofocus | No |
| Focus Type | Manual |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Filter Thread | 52mm |
Description — Nikon 55mm f/3.5 Micro
The Nikon Nikkor Non-AI 55mm f/3.5 Micro is a prime macro lens built around the Nikon F mount with full-frame format coverage. Its fixed 55mm focal length places it in the standard range, while its macro type designation makes it a dedicated tool for close-up photography. Operating at a maximum aperture of f/3.5, it requires thoughtful exposure management, particularly in lower-light situations.
All focusing is manual, with no autofocus system present, which encourages a measured and deliberate shooting approach well-suited to macro work. The 52mm filter thread provides easy access to a wide range of compatible accessories. Tipping the scales at just 220 grams, the lens is impressively light and unobtrusive.
As a Non-AI design, buyers working with modern digital bodies should carefully check metering compatibility before purchase, as this lens predates Nikon's AI coupling system. It remains a compelling choice for Nikon F mount film shooters and collectors seeking a vintage manual-focus macro lens.
Pros — Nikon 55mm f/3.5 Micro
- ✓Lightweight at just 220g, making it easy to handle during precise manual focus work
- ✓Full-frame coverage via the Nikon F mount ensures broad compatibility with compatible film and digital bodies
- ✓52mm filter thread size is a widely available standard, keeping accessory costs low
Cons — Nikon 55mm f/3.5 Micro
- ✗Non-AI designation means metering compatibility with most modern Nikon DSLRs is limited or absent without body modification
- ✗Manual focus only — no autofocus capability for any shooting scenario
- ✗Maximum aperture of f/3.5 is modest, limiting performance in lower light conditions
Videos — Nikon 55mm f/3.5 Micro
The Very Best Cheap (ish) Nikon Lenses — Madness To The Method