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Nikon 105mm f/1.8 AIS (Old Manual Focus model)
I have seen this one floating around every once in a while on Ebay. I have been looking at picking up a 105 MF for my film camera for a while. (THIS WILL BE USED PRIMARILY ON A FE2 AND FOR FILM- no need to delve into the digital or other versions) I do know a lot about the 2.8 & 2.5 models but haven't heard anything about the 1.8.
Anyone used/uses it and have any insight?
I've almost pulled the trigger on that lens more than once. Retailers in Japan always seem to have a nice copy available. Why you would limit yourself to just film for this lens is somewhat confusing since its a bit of a legend and would totally rock on your D300. If you have a fast 85mm its harder to make the decision to get the lens, especially if its primarily for portraiture since you'll likely find the 85mm suitable for more situations. At least thats why I never bothered with it already having an 85mm 1.4 AI-S. Their performance is said to be very similar, so top notch.
The users I've heard from say it is a great lens, but heavy.
THis one is a corner to corner very sharp lens, it's got a fine bokeh, but not as nice as the 85 1.4 in my opinion.
I find it a bit sensitive to flare though, but luckely Nikon put a telescopic lenshood on it, which you realy need...
Not many ppl did buy one when it was itroduced, ecause it came out around same time that the AI-s 85 1.4 did (1982) , which was considered to be THE lens to have.
Its just a bit larger than the AI-s 85 1.4, ( 8.9 cm) , filter size = 62mm ( 85 1.4 = 72mm) . Aperture runs from f1.8 - f22 ( the ais 85 from 1.4 - f16..)
This is, in my opinion, one of those "sleeper" lenses..
SquamishPhoto said:
Why you would limit yourself to just film for this lens is somewhat confusing since its a bit of a legend and would totally rock on your D300.
Not limiting my use - just the discussion of "you should get this instead." I do have the 105vr that I use a lot and would for digital. The primary use would to sit on one of my FE2s for B&W film. I have a few film cams I just throw in a bag on my way out the door and take only one lens. I have a really old 50 1.4 (1958 version) on one and a 24mm on another. I'm actually wanting a bunch more reach. I have seen a couple that were fairly cheap and much more so than the 85mm and even the 85 1.8 AI. It is actually cheaper at the moment to get a used 85mm 1.8 AFD for film.
My main thought is a close focus range that the 105s have. That makes the most difference for my desire for one.
Thanks for the info. Still on the fence though.
I have one and use it on my F2 quite a bit. I've had it many years now and it always performs well. As DutchNikon states, there is a neat little pull-out lens hood built in. My copy requires a little bit more effort to focus than some of my other lenses, but not a problem.
I also have the 85 f/1.4, but I think the 105 gets more use. The close focus field of view is about the same for both lenses, but you are standing back almost a foot more for the 105. Overall, there is something a little "better" about the 85: it's smaller, it's faster, and it focuses more smoothly, but the 105 has always gotten more use just because it seems to fit my needs. My most used lens is the 55 mm f/2.8 micro-nikkor.
I was going to sell the 85 to help finance the D800, but since the price came in lower than expected I'm delighted to be able to keep them both. This lens, my 55mm, and my really old, battered 35 f/1.4 are the reasons I never bought a DX body and why I am looking forward to the D800.
> I'm actually wanting a bunch more reach.
Not to change topic too much, but may I suggest considering the 75-150/3.5 AIS, the later version with the metal ring. Very good ones go for about $200.
I had this for an Nikkormat FT-3 and then an FM3A, and have used it on a D60 and the current D3100, both for landscapes and portraits. Very nice rendition and as you were wishing for, a bit more reach. Close focus is about the same as the 105, ie 1m or 3 feet.
Only half a stop slower than the Nikon 70-200/2.8 VRII and not much less reach, however focusing is a bit slower.
;-)
Michael
I have used the 75-150 - good little lens but for what I shoot I need the fastest possible. Close focus looks like it may be an issue - Anyone know off the top of their head what the 105 f2.5 close focus is? Was that a Macro lens as well?
They are all 1m except for the 105 DC, which is .9m
http://www.photosynthesis.co.nz/nikon/lenses.html - Roland knows all :]
I've had three samples of these lenses and they have all been excellent. I love the smooth silky focus ring they have, but they are a touch on the heavy side due to the solid metal build. They usually can be had where I am for around $350. I'd probably still have one, but I need autofocus occasionally for short telephoto work on top of the regular macro shots.
TaoTeJared said:
Close focus looks like it may be an issue - Anyone know off the top of their head what the 105 f2.5 close focus is? Was that a Macro lens as well?
I sometimes use a PK-11A extension ring to get closer focus with the 105 mm f/2.5 or the 85 mm f/2. Works really well.
Simply FYI for anyone who isn't aware, there is a great, and very long, thread about using Nikon manual focus glass on both digital and film bodies, at the Fred Miranda forums.
Goes for about 700 pages, with heaps of examples and discussion of many lenses.
TaoTeJared said:
Would that work for... lets say you are at dinner and the person across the table is 2 feet away? I have thought about that, but never tried it.
Just did a quick test. Using the PK-11A on the 105 mm f/2.5 AI-S you can focus from app. 70 cm (2.3 ft) to app. 1.55 m (5 ft).
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