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Nikon W Nikkor C 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5 Rangefinder Lens

The Nikon 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5 is a lens from Nikon. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Nikon W Nikkor C 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5 Rangefinder Lens

Nikon W Nikkor C 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5 Rangefinder Lens

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Lens Overview — Nikon 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5

The Nikon W Nikkor C 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5 is a vintage wide-angle rangefinder lens manufactured during the 1950s, representing an early chapter in Nikon's optical heritage. Designed for 35mm film format, this manual focus lens carries a maximum aperture of f/3.5 and mounts via the Nikon F mount, making it an interesting option for photographers exploring classic glass on compatible bodies. Its rangefinder lineage places it firmly in the category of vintage optics, and its manual focus operation demands a deliberate, hands-on shooting approach that many photographers find rewarding.

Weighing between 180g and 200g, the lens is relatively compact for a wide-angle optic of its era. The mechanical shutter compatibility and absence of flash connectivity reflect the straightforward, no-frills engineering philosophy of 1950s optical design. With 35mm film compatibility, this lens is well-suited for film shooters looking to pair vintage glass with period-appropriate or modern 35mm film cameras.

Its Nikon F mount offers a degree of versatility, as this mount has remained relevant across decades of Nikon camera production. For collectors and shooting enthusiasts alike, this lens represents a tangible connection to mid-century photographic craftsmanship.

Key Features — Nikon 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5

28mm f/3.5 Wide-Angle: A moderately wide field of view suited to street, landscape, and documentary photography on 35mm film.

Rangefinder-Era Optics: Manufactured in the 1950s, this lens reflects early Nikon optical engineering and carries genuine mid-century character.

Nikon S Mount (Contax RF): Originally designed for the Nikon S-series rangefinder system, not the Nikon F SLR mount. Requires an adapter for use on F-mount or modern Nikon bodies.

Manual Focus Design: Fully manual focus operation encourages a deliberate shooting approach favored in both film and adapted mirrorless workflows.

35mm Film Format: Designed specifically for 35mm film, making it a natural pairing with period-appropriate or modern 35mm film cameras.

Compact Build: The lens is notably compact and light for a wide-angle optic, adding minimal bulk to any kit.

Lens Specifications — Nikon 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5

Nikon 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5 full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesStreet, Landscape, Architecture
Lens MountNikon S
Focus TypeManual Focus

Description — Nikon 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5

The Nikon W Nikkor C 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5 is a manual focus wide-angle lens with a rangefinder heritage, manufactured during the 1950–1959 era. Built for the 35mm film format, it carries a Nikon F mount and a maximum aperture of f/3.5. Its mechanical shutter compatibility and straightforward optical design reflect the engineering priorities of its time.

Weighing between 180g and 200g, the lens is compact enough for everyday use without adding significant bulk. Flash compatibility is listed as none, keeping the shooting experience purely optical. Whether you're a collector drawn to its mid-century provenance or a film photographer seeking vintage Nikon glass, the W Nikkor C offers a direct link to the early decades of Nikon lens manufacturing — all through the enduring Nikon F mount.

Pros — Nikon 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5

  • ✓Nikon F mount offers broad compatibility across a wide range of Nikon camera bodies
  • ✓Compact weight of 180–200g makes it easy to carry for extended shoots
  • ✓Manual focus design gives the photographer full control over focusing

Cons — Nikon 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5

  • ✗Maximum aperture of f/3.5 is relatively modest for a wide-angle lens, limiting low-light performance
  • ✗Manual focus only — no autofocus capability for faster-paced shooting situations
  • ✗No flash compatibility listed, limiting use in flash-assisted shooting setups

Videos — Nikon 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5

Nikon (Nippon Kogaku) Rangefinder 28mm f3.5 Lens Overview — Andrew Smith

Resources & Downloads — Nikon 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Nikon 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5

What mount does the Nikon W Nikkor C 2.8cm 28mm f/3.5 use?+
This lens uses the Nikon F mount. This is confirmed in the specifications under both the lensMount and mount.lens fields.
Is this lens compatible with 35mm film cameras?+
Yes, the lens is designed for the 35mm film format and is listed as compatible with 35mm film. It would be a natural pairing for 35mm film cameras with a Nikon F mount.
Does this lens have autofocus?+
No, the lens is manual focus only. Photographers will need to focus the lens by hand, which is typical for vintage rangefinder-era optics of this period.
What is the weight of this lens?+
The lens weighs between 180g and 200g, making it relatively lightweight for a wide-angle lens of its vintage.
When was this lens manufactured?+
According to the specifications, this lens was manufactured between 1950 and 1959, placing it among the earliest Nikon wide-angle optics ever produced.
Can I use a flash with this lens?+
The specifications list flash compatibility as 'None,' so there is no integrated flash connectivity associated with this lens.

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