Nikon 135mm f/2.8 NIKKOR-Q Auto AI Manual Focus Lens Review

The Nikon 135mm f/2.8 NIKKOR-Q Auto AI is a legacy manual focus prime from the pre-autofocus era, designed for Nikon F-mount film and digital bodies. Originally part of the NIKKOR-Q lineup (indicating four optical elements), this lens represents classic Japanese optical engineering from Nippon Kogaku. At f/2.8, it offers a moderately fast aperture suitable for portraits and selective focus work, though not as bright as later 135mm designs. The AI coupling means it will meter on most Nikon bodies from the late 1970s onward, including modern DSLRs with compatible metering (though without autofocus or electronic aperture control). This is a used bargain-grade example, which typically indicates visible cosmetic wear, possible optical imperfections like dust or light cleaning marks, and potentially stiff focus or aperture rings. For shooters exploring vintage glass on a budget or looking for a characterful telephoto prime, it's an affordable entry point into Nikon's classic lens catalog, though expectations should match its age and condition grade.