Nikon 13.5cm (135mm) f/3.5 Nikkor-Q.C (Red R) Nippon Kogaku Japan Lens for Rangefinder, Chrome Review

The Nikon 13.5cm f/3.5 Nikkor-Q.C is a vintage rangefinder telephoto lens from Nippon Kogaku Japan, now available as a used item in excellent condition. This chrome-finish optic uses the legacy Red R rangefinder mount and was designed for Nikon's early rangefinder camera systems, making it a specialized piece for collectors and film photographers working with compatible bodies. At 135mm, it occupies the classic portrait and short-telephoto focal length, and the f/3.5 maximum aperture is typical of lenses from this era.

This lens is squarely aimed at enthusiasts who already own or are building a vintage Nikon rangefinder kit. It's not a modern workhorse but rather a functional collectible that can still produce images if paired with the right body. The 43mm filter thread and legacy optical design mean it won't have the coatings or sharpness of contemporary glass, but for analog shooters seeking period-correct equipment, it fits the bill. At $49 in excellent condition, it's an affordable entry point for experimenting with vintage telephoto optics on rangefinder systems.