Nikon 35mm f/2.8 NIKKOR-S Auto Non AI Nippon Kogaku Japan Manual Focus Lens Review

The Nikon 35mm f/2.8 NIKKOR-S Auto is a pre-AI manual focus lens from the Nippon Kogaku era, representing classic Nikon glass from the 1960s and early 1970s. This compact prime offers a versatile wide-angle field of view on full-frame film or digital bodies, though its non-AI mount means it won't meter on modern Nikon DSLRs without modification or AI conversion. The all-metal construction and multicoated optics deliver the rendering characteristics prized by vintage lens enthusiasts and film shooters.

As a legacy lens sold in used condition at a bargain price point, this NIKKOR-S is aimed at those willing to work fully manual and accept the quirks of older glass. It will mount directly on older Nikon F-mount film cameras and can adapt to mirrorless systems with the appropriate adapter, where focus peaking and magnification aids make manual operation more practical. The 52mm filter thread is a common size, and the compact form factor makes it a pocketable option for rangefinder-style shooting.