Nikon 50mm f/1.2 NIKKOR AIS Manual Focus Lens Review
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Our editorial take on the Nikon 50mm f/1.2 NIKKOR AIS Manual Focus Lens
The Nikon 50mm f/1.2 NIKKOR AIS is a legacy manual focus lens that has been in production since 1981, representing Nikon's fastest aperture option in the 50mm focal length. With its ultra-bright f/1.2 maximum aperture, it excels in low-light shooting and offers exceptional control over depth of field and background separation. The AIS version features a 9-blade aperture (an improvement over the earlier AI model's 7 blades) for smoother bokeh and includes a classic color-coded depth of field scale. It uses a common 52mm filter thread and features mechanical aperture control, making it compatible with a wide range of Nikon bodies, including modern DSLRs where it provides a 75mm equivalent field of view on DX format cameras. As a used lens typically found in excellent condition, it sits between the more common f/1.4 variants and the rare, specialized Noct-Nikkor 58mm f/1.2 in Nikon's manual focus lineup. It's a practical choice for photographers who prioritize maximum light gathering and vintage rendering over autofocus convenience, though at this price point buyers should verify they're comfortable with fully manual operation.
- f/1.2 maximum aperture offers exceptional low-light performance and shallow depth of field
- 9-blade aperture design produces smooth, pleasing bokeh
- 52mm filter thread is common and affordable
- Mechanical aperture allows compatibility across many Nikon bodies including modern DSLRs
- Fully manual focus with no autofocus capability
- Legacy design dates to 1981 with older optical coatings and construction
Synthesized by Geared editors from early expert reviews.
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About this product
The Nikkor 50mm f/1.2 AIS is Nikon's top of the line manual focus 50mm lens. It's an incredibly bright lens that offers superb image quality and sharpness. The ultra fast f/1.2 maximum aperture is the brightest available from any Nikkor Lens (as of 2017). This lens is outstanding for any sort of available-light shooting as well as general photography. When used on compatible DX format cameras the 50mm offers a field of view equivalent to a 75mm lens transforming it into an ultra fast f/1.2 portrait lens. The Nikon 50mm f/1.2 AIS been in available since 1981. It's a step-up from the Nikon 50mm f/1.4 AIS and similar manual focus lenses. This AIS version (Nikon USA part# 1435) replaced the previous AI model and uses a 9 blade aperture in place of the previous model's 7 blade aperture. While not quite as highly corrected for coma as the extremely rare and considerably more expensive Noct-Nikkor 58mm f/1.2 AI and Noct-Nikkor 58mm f/1.2 AIS, it's still a popular practical option for low light shooters. Key Features Top tier ultra-bright manual focus normal lens Provides brightest possible viewing, even under dim light conditions Amazing background blur possible at f/1.2 Classic Nikon color coded depth of field scale Infra-red focus mark Uses the popular 52mm filter size Mechanical aperture control allows use on broad range of cameras Available accessories include the HR-2 and HS-12 lens hoods, the CL-34A and CL-31S lens cases, and 52mm filters. | Nikon 50mm f/1.2 NIKKOR AIS Manual Focus Lens | 52 | - EX+ - Excellent Plus - With Caps | Used
Specs
- Legacy
- true
- Condition Grades Seen
- ex
- Keh Merchant Product Id
- 220890-240780
Where to buy
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- KEHused● In stockBest price$493Buy
