This took me back to my high school days in 1973. I was a member of my school's photography club. All the members were boys, some from well-off families and others not. We had a school darkroom we could use, and one SLR camera (a Minolta SRT-101) with a single 50mm lens that we could check out to use, much like a library book. My own camera was a Fujica Auto-M rangefinder, which was an odd and quirky camera bought for $15. We had one kid in the club whose family had money, and he showed up one day with a new chrome Nikkormat bought for him by his parents. It had the 50mm F2 Nippon Kogaku lens on it with the scalloped metal focusing ring. This, at the time, was the equivalent to us of a kid showing up at school with a brand new sports car. I remember it being the coolest thing I had ever seen. He was the envy of the club. He let everyone handle it a little bit, but after that, every time anyone talked about cameras, he had to bring up that he "owned a Nikon". About that time, I met the professional photographer who took our school portraits each year. He had a studio, and this sort of contract was fairly lucrative. He was at a Friday night football game. I mentioned that what he was doing looked like fun, as I struggled to get a shot from behind the fence with my little rangefinder, while he had access to the side lines. He surprised me by saying, "I hate this sh*t, I'd rather be at home". When I told him I'd love to do that kind of work, he stopped, wrote down his name and the address of his studio, and told me to come by the next weekend. I did, and he asked me if I really wanted to learn photography. Of course I said yes, and a deal was struck. He gave me two Nikon F's that looked well used, along with a 35mm f2.8, a 50mm f1.4, and a 135mm f3.5, a huge Metz flash on a bracket, and about two dozen rolls of Tri-X 400 speed film. He assigned me to shoot my school sports so that he could have his Friday nights and weekends free. He told me I was expected to bring back two publishable shots from each game for the school newspaper and yearbook. He told me to shoot many more shots than I thought I needed to, because in his words, "film is cheap". I received no pay, but got a pass to all school activities, use of his studio darkroom, and all the film I wanted. He had a good business in the summer shooting weddings, so later on when school was out, he'd book two per weekend if he could. He would shoot the critical ceremony shots with his Hasselblad, and leave me behind to shoot the candid photos at the reception with his Nikons. When I showed up with two Nikon F's, and the other gear at the club, which back then cost the equivalent of $5,000, our teacher actually thought maybe I had stolen it, until he called the photographer. The kid with the Nikkormat shut up completely about his camera, and I'm afraid I was a bit of a jerk, saying that his was a nice camera, but that I had "real Nikons". But I will say this, after my first football game, lugging two huge F's hung around my neck, that smaller Nikkormat started to look pretty good. I worked for the pro photographer for free until I graduated high school, learning all sorts of things about wedding and studio photography. He gave me the Nikon gear as a graduation present. I then spent the next few years as a newspaper photographer. And, a couple of years ago, I returned to my home town for a visit, and had dinner with my high school friend. We were both well into our 60's at the time. He surprised me by bringing along that old Nikkormat, that he was still shooting. I've owned dozens of camera systems in my life, and some were a bit smaller, or more automated, but none have had the longevity and interchangeability over time of my Nikon gear. I just bought a Nikkormat FTN for $50, which came with the classic 50mm F2 lens included. I considered the Nikkormat a free rear lens cap, but it seems to work, so I think I'll clean it up and shoot it. Or perhaps I'll gift it to another young photographer.

@solocheeto7025

2 жыл бұрын

Awesome story, thank you for sharing.

@dedclownsRfunny

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing! 😊 that’s really cool

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Fantastic story! Thank you for this. Shows that sometimes you just have to go up and talk to people. Happy shooting!

@denisbannan6875

10 ай бұрын

Thankyou for sharing this wonderful "memoir"

@GooseCrack

2 ай бұрын

Neat story!

I was fortunate to have purchased a used FT2 and FTN in like new condition back in 1976 and used them through my three years in high school. Both were an absolutely solid, rugged, durable, reliable, beautiful tank of a camera. I have big hands, and I never noticed the extra size or weight. The Nikkormat just always felt good/right in my hands. Unless you absolutely needed motor drive or interchangeable prisms, I would have taken my Nikkormat's over a Nikon F2 any day of the week, and twice on Sunday. I keep wanting a Nikkormat digital equivalent to this day.

I just found my grandfathers Nikkormat after I purchased his house. I have a lot to learn about older film cameras and can’t wait to use it soon! Lovely video and review you have here.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Your grandfather has good taste! Happy shooting!

Well-done! I'm glad that there are people that still care about this stuff.

My grandfather just handed me down his camera from 1965....it is amazing. I can't wait to see the developed photos

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Your grandfather has good taste!

My friend, this has been immensely helpful. I cannot wait for mine to arrive in a few days!

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Glad I could help! Happy shooting!

just got my ftn last week and now i'm waiting for my first roll to be developed and scanned! thank you for this video, very informative and easy to understand :-)

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Great stuff! Glad I could help!

Thanks for the review. I just bought my Nikkormat FT2 now i can't wait for it to arrive! Greetings from Chile

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome! I hope you enjoy it. Happy shooting!

I love hearing you gush about the design and quality of this camera, because to be totally honest, that is why I also bought one off ebay. I already own the F3, but the Braun-ness and quirkyness of this camera appeals strongly to me. Cannot wait to try it 😍 thanks for this video, I've seen it several times now

Really cool camera. Thank you for the historic overview. 😊

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

It is a cool camera! It's a pleasure. :)

Mate, thanks for the effort you put into this video, I really enjoyed it. I watched it because I'm in the market for a Nikkormat. I have had a Nikon FE for the past twenty years, which I bought second hand, so it's probably about forty years old now at least. I did have to get it serviced about 15 years ago, as the mechanism started getting unreliable, but after that it has been totally dependable and a joy to use. I'm now looking at a couple of Nikkormats at my local shop which I really like because they seem very robust and they'll take all the lenses in my collection. You said you have never held an "F" model, the difference is that the "F" series is a lot lighter to handle. But I think that's the attraction of the Nikkormats - they're built like tanks. As I do a lot of outdoor photography and take my cameras on arduous walks or even rides in the mountains, I want something that's going to stand up to some rough use, won't be worth a fortune if the worst happens, and can be repaired if needs be. After watching your (and several other) videos, I get the impression that this is the one. By the way, I love your country, I worked there in the early 2000s and you are lucky to live in such a great place. Take care buddy, and enjoy shooting (your camera).

I was just gifted a beautiful Nikkormat FT N with the 50mm 1.4 lens. I'm excited to give it a go. Thank you for this video. Very informative.

In 1976, I bought an FT-2 to replace my 15-year-old Nikkorex F. The distinctive features of the FT-2 are that it is the first Nikkormat to drop the 1.35 volt mercury battery, which by then was on the verge of being eliminated. For quick identification, it is the first Nikkomat to affix a black plastic cover over the end of the film advance lever. It is also the last pre-AI version.

When mounting the lens, in order to adjust it to the light meter, you first turn the aperture ring to the minimum setting (largest f-number), then to the maximum (smallest f-number), not the other way around.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Ah, my bad! Thank you for the correction.

@richardlitson1894

3 жыл бұрын

@@positivelynegative7753 OK, cheers.

@pancakelens75

2 жыл бұрын

@@richardlitson1894 I immediately caught that as well. I have an absolutely lovely Nikkormat FT2 that was my late fathers he bought new. It’s the same on his Nikon F2(also lovely)

i just bought one and cant wait to receive it. thanks for sharing

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Hope you enjoy it!

A very good review good review of a niche neglected and under appreciated camera!

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you very much!

Nice review! I just bought an FTN and I'm anxious to try it out.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Hope you enjoy it!

this was so helpful thank you so much! I just got this camera from my grandad and am learning how to use it 💜

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Glad to help and happy shooting!

Lovely! I bought a FT2 with as non-functioning for $9 a few years ago. It was easy to fix. I love this camera. It's so much fun to use! I bought that lens you have for about $17 (fungus inside the lens but I cleaned it) but It wasn't as sharp as yours. Then I found a beat up 50mm f/1.4 AI-S for $56 and I bought it. I was and continue to be impressed with that lens as the resolution keeps up with today's high resolution sensors. Some of the pictures I took with it on the FT2 on Tri-x 400 film look so sharp and modern that no one has noticed it was shot on film. I also love using Samyang lenses on it with an external light meter as they produce amazing images on film.

Excellent review, I just bought one with the 50mm Nikkor -S f1.4 for 150 Canadian. Works perfect, and awesome! Thanks for the review!

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Sounds like a good deal to me!

I have my dads old Nikon F2 and Nikkormat FT2, both wonderful cameras! It’s definitely a significantly larger camera than my Contax 139Q…and you’re absolutely correct, the Nikkormat FT/FTN/FT2 are probably the best bang for buck buy in the second hand film world!

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Glad to hear I'm not talking nonsense!

Hello, I like this video of yours. You did not have handle a Nikon F? Don't worry. You are totally right. I have both cameras and i tell you that the Nikkormat FTN is much stronger than Nikon F. Nikkormat is a real war tank, stronger than Nikon F. Of course the Nikon F have outher potenciallities, it's a professional level model and very well built. But so is the Nikkormat FTN. You will try one day to handle a Nikon F and you will problably agree with me. Best regards (from Portugal).

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for this lovely comment all the way from Portugal! I'm glad I was on the right track. I look forward to using an F one day - but I doubt I'll love it more than my FTN.

I bought a number these for my daughter's, Granddaughters and son in law. Back in 1971 these were quite expensive even as semi pro models. The prices are starting to go up on them they are twice the price they were two years ago. One of the best features of the FTn is the Copal Square vertical shutter( even better than the Nikon F in my opinion). Thank you for this review. Subscribed.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much! Yes, I've read about the shutter but forgot to mention it in the video. I've noticed the prices going up now too. Maybe the secret is out!

@Dudeitsbrian

3 жыл бұрын

Both the F and the Nikkormat were in Full Metal Jacket, and all the young fellas like me are watching it wondering what gear they’ve got. Also I would say the best feature of the Nikkormat over the F is the mirror lock up lever rather than having to shoot a shot to lock it up. (Was very helpful in troubleshooting my manky specimen)

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

@@Dudeitsbrian I remember the scene where Joker's camera gets stolen by the prostitute in Saigon! I think I saw a photo of Stanley Kubrick using a Nikkormat from around that time. So, if it was good enough for Kubrick, it's certainly good enough for me!

@mattdyer9544

3 жыл бұрын

I've been looking at film photography for a while, should've brought an FM/FE two years ago, but recently scored a lower serial number FTN for £25

Great video. Thanks for this review

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Okay! ;)

I bought a thrashed ftn that had a history of having been dropped in a beaver pond and also from the roof of a car onto pavement when the previous owner forgot it was there.I used the camera until the late 90's.It took great photos. Replaced it with another ftn.

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

They do feel almost unbreakable. I'm sure there are some out there that have suffered even more difficult lives and are still firing!

Good review. 👍👍👍

I completely agree with your review. This camera has a wonderful look, but the feel of the film advance & the sound of the shutter made me fall in love with this fantastic piece of kit. I have the Nikon FE & FM. I have tested a Nikon F2. Of them all, I would keep the FTN.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

It feels so nice! Really? I'm surprised that you like it more than those other cameras. Makes me not want to spend too much money on an F2 after all!

@linjicakonikon7666

2 жыл бұрын

I completely agree that the Nikomat has by far the best shutter release and advance feel. So nice!!

@briandougher5741

2 жыл бұрын

I have an F2 and an FTN, and I like the FTN more. The FTN somehow has better build quality and even smoother film advance. Its the best built camera I’ve ever used, including Leica. It’s ridiculous that this was the cheap ‘amateur’ Nikon!

Bought mine in 1982 second hand (Ftn with plastic tip to winder)and it took me into using Nikon kit.Lovely wind on ....the F3 is nice too. Mine came with the standard 50mm f2 which was excellent. Only drawback is battery type is discontinued. Classic looks never seems dated...form follows function.

One spot the Nikkormat FTN excels beyond the Nikon F is flash sync speed. The Nikon F has the old curtain-style shutter, and a flash sync speed of 1/60 maximum. The Nikkormat’s flash sync speed is 1/125 due to its box-style leaf shutter design. So the Nikkormat FTN was actually the better camera for action flash photography. I love my FTN. I like the feel of the shutter activation on my Spotmatic SPs a little better (the haptic feedback is delightful), but the Nikkormat still has a nice solid feel and a shutter click that’s all it’s own.

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Interesting! Thank you for this helpful comment.

Thanks. I liked your video a lot. I have had Nikkormats for 45+ years (and still use them) but I only ever first held a Nikon F - a used one - about 18 months ago. I bought it straightway - for £125. It is dent-free and works perfectly, by the way, so it was a real bargain. The only odd thing is that it has a black body with a silver plain prism - so it's a mongrel. By the way, a clean black plain prism for an F now costs $500+, if you can find one, so is not worth pursuing at that price. I would say that the F is a bit heavier than the FT series but the build quality is identical. There are a great many Nikkormats on sale today which are in really good shape but, in contrast, it is quite hard to find nice Pentax Spotmatics as their condition just did not seem to hold up well in comparison to that of Nikkormats. The Nikkormat line started with the FT (which has a fiddly max. aperture setting routine compared with the later models), was joined by the FS (which has no meter), and followed by the FTn (as reviewed in the video), the FT2 (which switched to a non-Mercury battery and has a split-image viewfinder), the FT3 (which adopted the more convenient "AI" method of max. aperture calibration: this involved a small change to the lens mount). There was also the Nikkormat EL which was quite a major re-design as it had an electronic shutter with aperture-priority auto-exposure, but it still fits the into same ever-ready case as all the FT series. The EL was later re-named the Nikon EL2 when it adopted to the AI coupling like the FT3 did in 1977. The ELs are great value when they work but I am told that elecronic faults in them are very hard to repair. This scare people off them a bit. I have an FT2, FT3 and and EL. They are all near-mint and work perfectly after decades of use. Regarding batteries for the FT and FTn (and all other cameras using Mercury cells), I would recommend looking on a website: www.paulbg.com/Nikon_F_meter_batteries.htm Here you will find on sale some small ring-like adapters which slide over type ZA675 hearing aid batteries and enable them to fit into battery compartments designed for Mercury (Hg) cells. The ZA (zinc-air) cells have 1.4 volts compared with 1.35v volts for the Hg cells - so they are very close. Importantly, they share a key characteristic which made the Hg cells popular, namely that they maintain a very constant voltage from fully-charged to nearly flat and so remove the need for having a voltage regulator circuit in the meter circuit. The modern 1.5 volt alkaline cells do not have such a constant voltage and so the meter readings will be less consistent over time. With Zinc-air cells, you peel a piece of paper off one end to let in the air when you first install them. I find that they last comfortably for 12 months in this condition and, in any case, they cost less than a dollar each to replace. These ZA675 cells, with the ring adapters fitted, are easily the best solution out there, in my opinion. Finally, with Nikkormats, it is possible to use a large proportion of all the Nikon F-Mount lenses made over the past 60 years, including some which are still in production. No other manufacture can match this compatibility.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for this mammoth, and very informative, comment. I can't reply to every point that you make except to say thank you and I'm sure many other people who come across this video will be glad to have this additional info.

Great review, thanks👏🍀📸 nice greets from Austria;)

I just got one of these from an antique store. It is an all black Nikomat (Japan release) FTN, and attached was this long 200mm lens. Looking up both of them, I definitely could have found them for a little cheaper than I got, but I've been burned by online camera sales and this one was in perfect functioning condition. This video just made me so excited to shoot with it.

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Awesome! The black ones look really cool. Happy shooting!

@Allie_undici

Жыл бұрын

hi I just got the exact same in Japan. How much you paid if you don't mind me asking?

@bentoske

Жыл бұрын

@@Allie_undici It's been a while, but I believe I paid around $150 (USD) for it and it came with a lens!

Nice review.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you!

Thank you . The FT2 is a rock of a body ! a few nikon terms to help with your next cool vid " meter coupling ring prong " ( that's the fork ) this helps " index " the lens and body . Thank you again .

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the advice! I'll try to remember the correct lingo going forward.

I have a Nikormat FTN, and I can tell that everything you told is true! Its my prefered camera (hope my Canon dont read this hahahahahha). Its strong, heavy, unbreakeble, like an old diesel engine. If you that are reading this have the opportunity to get one, please dont wast your time and ho for it! Ah, and congratulations for you videos! Really cool!

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Yay! Glad I'm on the right track!

This is my first camera it's heavy but man does it feel amazing in your hands rock solid

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Absolutely! And a great one to be your first!

I have recently purchased a FT with a 50mm lens for $160 Canadian. Actually I was in the market for the lens with the bunny ears to use with my Nikon F camera, and the Nikkormat body was a bonus! I ended up giving the seller an extra $20 bucks as a thank you.

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Sounds like a pretty good deal to me!

I have three, my first one was a well loved, slightly bashed example, but it works perfectly, next was a better condition one, and just recently I managed to get an all black one, condition somewhere in between, again in perfect working condition. I was lucky enough to get a Nikon F with metered prism, lovely camera well used condition but working perfectly. My appraisal is the Nikon F although a wonderful camera is large and heavy by comparison to the Nikkormats, and if I’m out on a long shoot the Nikkormats are for me easer to lug around all day. That said if you can get one working the Nikon F is still a wonderful camera to own and use.

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for this comment. The black ones really do look cool!

Hi i came across your page because i recently purchased one and i really enjoyed this video. I just was wondering what battery did you use for the light meter because i was told that the battery is no longer in production so i was wondering if there was a substitute or possible way to make it work ? I just got into vintage film cameras and eager to learn how to use this particular camera more, since it is my first. Again thank you for this amazing video and loved the photos !

I am currently have a Nikon F, F2 and Nikkormats FT, FT2 and a Nikkormat EL. For most people, the extra features of the F series- motor drives, changing metering systems, etc. aren't that relevant, and since Nikkormats take all of the Nikon pre-ai lenses, they are a great deal and are outstanding workhorse cameras from a classic era of photography. If given a choice (as I had) opt for an FT2, since it offers all of the features (and fun) of the FTn, plus the advantage of using readily available 1.5 volt batteries plus a hot shoe.

Thank's for sharing this informations. Y have an old Nikomat japanese market model📷

Do these cameras require a battery to function? I have a Nikkormat FTN and can't seem to find a PX625 mercury battery only replacements. Will those work too?

Hello and great work. What battery are you using with Ftn?

I got my FTN for 40bugs, because i became the 'nifty fifty f1.4 for 80 bugs. Realy nice Combo...LOVE IT !!!

I've got a Nikkormat FTn, it was my father's one. I also have few lenses.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Awesome! Your father had good taste ;)

as i understand it the shutter speed being located around the mount ring simplifies the electronic design for the meter.... allowed them to maintain reliability while reducing manufacturing costs

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Interesting! Thank you for this.

got mine in great condition for 75 bucks, I'm excited to start shooting film for the first time :)

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Sounds like a bargain!

Great review on the camera. I've got F2, FM and FM2, but today my first FTn arrived with the post. It looks and feels great, however, I cannot find a way to change the ISO (ASA). I didn't want to force it, so here is the question: how do you do it? And what battery do you use? Original batteries are not produced anymore as far as I know.

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Hi! The ISO setting on my camera is very tight as well. It loosened up after a while, though. If it feels like you might break it, don't force it, though!

These cameras rock, I own several.

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

They really are cool!

Nice review. Got an F2AS, F and an FtN. I think I may sell the F as I have an F2 but not sure at the moment - the FTN is near mint and apart from the meter, seems to work ok!

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Nice! Sounds like you have a good collection there. I've wanted an F2 for ages! Just holding out for a bargain because they tend to go for a pretty penny here in South Africa.

@legionchef

3 жыл бұрын

Agreed, they are very pricey. You’d probably be better off spending the money on film, as you have an awesome lens set up! It is only a light tight box after all! Keep up the great work!

@legionchef

3 жыл бұрын

@Mike Zielinski thanks for your comment! Unfortunately I did sell it, but instantly regretted it and bought another F with a FTN prism. I couldn’t seem to find a plain F prism without corrosion or reasonably priced, but I have my F now!

Interesting. Now I know why there are Bunny Ears on my AIS lenses. 😆

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Not just there to look pretty!

What the reason is ? The shutter speed dial is around the bayonet, because with your left hand you are turning the focusing ring plus the aperture ring. So your right hand is for transporting the film / cocking the shutter and pressing the release button. No need to take away your eye from the viewing eye pece.

May i ask what type of battery does this camera take and do Nikon digital lenses work on the FTN also?

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Hi, I'll just copy a previous reply here, "I use a 1.5v L1560 battery. I think it might also be called a V625U. I think, strictly speaking, it's the wrong voltage. I believe the camera was originally supposed to use a 1.3v mercury battery, which they don't make anymore. I'm sure it affects the meter negatively, but, like I said in the video, I don't shoot slide film, so if the exposures are a stop or two out, I probably won't notice. And the L1560 battery was the only one I was able to get in my home town. I'm sure there might be better solutions with adaptors and such." The camera will still fire without a battery, though! The battery only powers the light meter. Regarding the lenses - unfortunately not. The FTN uses Pre-AI (Auto Indexing) Lenses, the ones with the little metal bunny ears. A more modern lens might mount to the camera, but it won't be able to communicate with the body so you won't be able to change the aperture. Luckily, the old lenses aren't too expensive - get yourself an old nifty fifty and shoot away!

@erikmagnuson9670

3 жыл бұрын

The mostly identical FT2 uses the more common 675/357/LR44 silver batteries.

Got 2 the best SzlR I have owned Solid made like a tank

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

They really are! Thank you for the comment.

Nice review, I am a langsman living in the USA. I have two FT photomics and not a huge difference. Lekker Camera:)

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the lekker comment!

The peg for the bunny ear lens mount on one I got recently is broken off , is it necessary to have it or is it okay to shoot without it even though a lens mounts fine just doesn’t hook into the bunny ears , If that makes sense

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Berts, That's a good question but I must admit, I'm not an expert in vintage Nikon lenses. But from what I understand, the bunny ears are there to communicate with the light meter. The lens should still mount and shoot fine, but you won't be able to meter.

Hi, may i know how many times do we have to turn right the lever to take another shot? Im confused .

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Hi! Just once. Winding the lever once cocks the shutter and moves the film to the next frame all in one go.

Where did you get the battery? I lucked out and got 3 working ones out of an Agfa point and shoot from a German thrift shop. When I look at the prices of px625 replacement batteries they are crazy.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

That is very lucky! I bought mine from a local camera shop that literally only stocks one or two at a time. Luckily they last long!

@NickShvelidze

3 жыл бұрын

@@positivelynegative7753 I’m gonna install a diode in my camera once I’m out of batteries

You sound South African African it's insane😂☀️

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Because I am! :)

@viwekaptein7548

2 жыл бұрын

@@positivelynegative7753 Do you know any places where I can scan and print film here in SA?

Nice review, God bless whoever gifted you that beautiful Nikon glass. How do you like that 20mil? I don't have that one. That 50 1.4 has a split personality, low contrast & dreamy at 1.4, sharp & contrasty at f2.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much! I know, right? I'm a lucky bugger. I love the 20mil. It gives such a wide field of view and it works really well in photographing people in their environment, like that shot of my grandmother in her kitchen.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

​@Scott Murphy Cool! I'm sure it would look great for video as well, if that's something you're interested in. I kind of like the fact that older lenses have "flaws" wide open - it distinguishes them from the clinically perfect modern lenses which I sometimes find "too good" or just not to my taste.

Great review. Your absolutely right if your just starting out in photography get a ftn or ft2 which takes the 1.5 v battery. They are built like a tank. Why people rave over a Pentax k1000 I don't know. They are junk compared to the Nikkormat. I just got one in a job lot as I wanted the Nikkor zoom lens that came with it and it was cheaper to get 3 lens and a black ft2 body than just buying one lens. The camera was sold as working which it's not so I got even more money refunded!! I've sorted the slow speeds as it needed a CLA. The only thing wrong with it now is B setting closes the shutter after a second or so. It does say in the instruction manual not to use the self timer with B mode. The camera would need to be completely disassembled to see what the problem is. Far too much work and could end up a paperweight! I have a Nikon F and the wind on is silky smooth and I mean so smooth you wonder if it wound on. The eye level finders now have prism corrosion due to the foam that over time eats into the coating. On my ft2 Nikon put a plastic cover over the prism so they learnt from there mistake. Finding a Nikon F without prism corrosion is very difficult. I just took apart my ftn photonic finder as it had only just started to de silver. I caught it in time but that repair is not for a beginner. Anyone wanting a black ft2 working except for B setting and new foam and light seals done send me a message.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for this very informative comment! I'm glad to hear that I'm sort of on the right track regarding the Nikkormat! That de-silvering issue is an interesting one - and not one I've come across online before. Funnily enough, my later, Chinese-made K1000 has de-silvering in the viewfinder as well!

@petercooper9054

3 жыл бұрын

@@positivelynegative7753 thanks for your reply. I put the camera back together only to find it locked up completely! There was only one way forward now. Take it apart. Glad I did as I found out why it would not go to b setting. A previous owner had pressed the shutter button down so hard when it was stuck that he or she had bent a flat piece if metal. The shutter rod was not moving low enough and the b setting pin on the shutter would not clear. While I had it opened I replaced all the bad foam. I now works correctly. Will be going out soon to test it. Regarding the prisms in cameras some go quicker than others. I use a Minolta ex1 a lot and the last time I picked it up all the bottom of the viewfinder was jet black! The foam had finally eaten into the mirror silver. I had to buy a junk camera to replace the mirror. The junk was in mint condition but had electronic problems. I'll let you know the results of the Nikkormat

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

@@petercooper9054 Great work! People can find the most amazing ways to break stuff! I'm glad you knew how to fix it and I hope you've extended its lifespan by another few decades.

whats the battery and where can i get a replacement. I have one and can't seem to find the right battery

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

I think there are other comments that answer this question. I'm afraid I can't remember the name of the battery.

Which battery do we use for this camera?

@genestassov3845

Жыл бұрын

For a correct work a mercury 1,3V battery can be used. It is important, as modern batteries are 1,5V.

The Nikkormat is Nikon’s Porsche 912.

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Good comparison!

I own a couple nikkormats (ft-n and ft2) and a nikon f, and honestly, I tend to prefer the nikkormat. The f is more stylish, and it is lighter, but i prefer having a lightmeter, the advance is better on the nikkormat (imo) and having a modernised film load compared to the f's leica style back which is completely removed when loading is a pain. the nikkormat is the chunky but just as capable younger brother and honestly could not come more highly reccomended.

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Great stuff! Thank you for this informative comment.

I got an FT in the mail (wrong camera, I ordered an FTN) and it was absolutely thrashed (good thing I got a refund) and I would say to stay away from the FT unless you’re a collector. It’s got a really janky ISO/Aperture select mechanism compared to the later ones. Also I can’t find an FT for the life of me anyways. Can distinguish because FTN and later have the indexing pointer on a rectangular protrusion but the FT has it super small and minimal. Thanks for the vid

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Interesting! Thanks for sharing. I guess Nikon quickly realised the problems with the FT and set about fixing them.

The Nikon FTN is an impoved Nikon FT. The TTL lightmter is 60/40% centre weight. A Nikon FS is a Nikon FT without a TTL lightmeter. A Nikkorex is a non-Nikon; made by Mamiya.

Lovely camera and lovely review thanks for that :)

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the lovely comment! :)

hi! What batteries will I be able to use for this camera? And what batteries do you use?

@carlahewitt1971

2 жыл бұрын

And where can you get it in South Africa?

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Hi, I'll just copy a previous reply here, "I use a 1.5v L1560 battery. I think it might also be called a V625U. I think, strictly speaking, it's the wrong voltage. I believe the camera was originally supposed to use a 1.3v mercury battery, which they don't make anymore. I'm sure it affects the meter negatively, but, like I said in the video, I don't shoot slide film, so if the exposures are a stop or two out, I probably won't notice. And the L1560 battery was the only one I was able to get in my home town. I'm sure there might be better solutions with adaptors and such." I got mine online. I don't remember them being difficult to find - or very expensive. And they last for ages.

Muy bueno!!!👏👏👏👏👏 Que pilas lleva???

Oh, you are South African😂 I love it

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

You know it, my bru. ;)

Hi, well presented and informative video. I collect and use Nikon film cameras (have about 20 at present) and I would say that the best Nikon is the F3 but the best bargain is the FTn (or the FT2 which goes for a similar price).

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

Bonjour quel pile doit on mettre dans l'appareil svp

Hi since you asked how does it feel with Nikon F2 compare with Nikomat? I now have F2, yes I agree for simplicity and reliability Nikomat is a hell of a camera...nothing delicate about it and it delivers it purpose..nothing greatly special about F2 if you already owned Nikomat...unless you just want for collection

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for this! Good to hear from someone who has used both. I'll still get an F2 one day, when my ship comes in!

a friend of mine was a war photo journalist in Southeast Asia and he was telling me that a heavy Nikon camera comes in handy when defending yourself. First you hit the guy in the head with the camera, then you take their picture.

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

I can honestly believe that!

I just got mine today ..black

@positivelynegative7753

2 жыл бұрын

Nice! The black ones look really cool.

Hello! What battery do you use for your ftn?

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

I use a 1.5v L1560 battery. I think it might also be called a V625U. I think, strictly speaking, it's the wrong voltage. I believe the camera was originally supposed to use a 1.3v mercury battery, which they don't make anymore. I'm sure it affects the meter negatively, but, like I said in the video, I don't shoot slide film, so if the exposures are a stop or two out, I probably won't notice. And the L1560 battery was the only one I was able to get in my home town. I'm sure there might be better solutions with adaptors and such.

@tonyhayes9827

3 жыл бұрын

@@positivelynegative7753 Interesting. I use that battery as well (V625U) but the light meter still wont work.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

@@tonyhayes9827 Then I think it's possible that the light meter might be broken. That does happen. But luckily the camera will still fire without it! And there are free light meter apps that work really well.

@tonyhayes9827

3 жыл бұрын

@@positivelynegative7753 yes I think you’re right. Thankfully I have a Sekonic light meter!

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

@@tonyhayes9827 That's even better!

I have just got an all black Nikkormat ft2 with a 50mm f1.4 ai s-c lens and a P auto Nikkor 105mm f2.5. The Ft2 has an exposure window with a +/- needle on the top plate which is the only difference to the Ftn. Oh, and it has a split rangefinder screen. The Ftn is plain I believe, although some people have had it changed to the K viewfinder.

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Very cool! That 105mm lens is probably awesome, right? Yes, mine has the plain focusing screen, which I actually prefer. I find I don't really enjoy split prism focusing as much. But I know other people swear by it.

@neilpiper9889

3 жыл бұрын

@@positivelynegative7753 Yes, the old 105 2.5 is pretty amazing. I use it on my Nikon D300s as well.

My ft2 is still banging away as good as the dsy it was made

Is that Dylan vinyl gonna fall?

@positivelynegative7753

Жыл бұрын

Don't worry - I've found a far more stable place for my precious records!

Bonjour quel est le prix actuel de cet appareil svp

A Nikon F with 1 : 2 - 50 mm lens plus the TTL lightmeter Photomic was 50 % more expensive than a Nikkormat FT plus a 1 : 2 - 50 mm in 1963..

Your composition skills are great, but image quality comes from quality films, not just lenses. Consider using better grade films, your work deserves it.

When can we expect your next video mate?

@positivelynegative7753

3 жыл бұрын

Soon! Unfortunately, Aunty Corona came to visit so I've been out of action for a little while. But I've got quite a few videos lined up which I'm hoping to finish in the next couple of weeks.

Nobody can tell me what parts were worse engineered and therefore cheaper amateur cameras than nikon f etc. i wish someone knew

its same in sgP. ft,ftn,ft3 are as good as F!

Agfamat Edixamat Werramat Polomat

The Nikomat and Nikormat are the SAME cameras! To say the Nikomat is an "amateur camera" is silly, learn the camera! The Nikomat is the Japanese domestic camera, the Nikkormat is the same camera, but destined for export. They are identical cameras.