Legendary Vintage Lens - Nikkor 105mm f2.5

Today we are taking a closer look at one extraordinary vintage lens - the AI Nikkor 105mm f2.5. This lens was used by many professional photographers and is revered as one of the best 100mm lenses ever made! I had an amazing time using this gem and I am excited to show you what it can do.
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Пікірлер: 199

  • @miam1074
    @miam10743 жыл бұрын

    I sold all of my Nikon lenses, but kept this one. The best portrait lens I ever used.

  • @armanddimeo6575
    @armanddimeo65753 жыл бұрын

    Probably my favorite lens ever for both film and digital.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    One of my absolute favorites as well!!

  • @gearheadchannel
    @gearheadchannel3 жыл бұрын

    Legendary is definitely the right word to describe this lens.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Agreed! It's definitely of the best!

  • @moritzheintze7615

    @moritzheintze7615

    Жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks Legendary yes. But as with most legends, truth is a different matter. I would call it only "average" if it comes to quality.

  • @michaelmalodrums9674

    @michaelmalodrums9674

    5 ай бұрын

    @@moritzheintze7615 I guess it was good enough for National; geographic as a cover shot.

  • @reecemcdaniel3085
    @reecemcdaniel30852 жыл бұрын

    Such an awesome video. A pleasure to watch! Thank you for making this!

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much!!

  • @daveed4475
    @daveed4475 Жыл бұрын

    Wow - I can't wait to pick one of these up. Thanks for the terrific review!

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    You are welcome. It’s a fantastic lens!

  • @heriport6654
    @heriport66542 жыл бұрын

    beautiful, just ordered one last night, excellent video!

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much! And congrats on getting one of these amazing lenses! I hope you’ll enjoy it.

  • @efreutel
    @efreutel10 ай бұрын

    Wonderful review. Gorgeous lens. Thank you.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    10 ай бұрын

    Thanks so much!

  • @neilpiper9889
    @neilpiper98892 жыл бұрын

    I have an early Nikkor P auto 2.5 105mm. I love it

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Nice!!

  • @bim2443
    @bim2443 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you - a very good video cherishing technical history.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.

  • @anbar5675
    @anbar56753 жыл бұрын

    The only Nikkor I own is the 105/2,5 Ais. I confirm that is an excellent lens.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Amazing lens for sure! Glad to hear you love yours.

  • @rettro6578
    @rettro65783 жыл бұрын

    Subscribed based on this video alone! Great editing and info!

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks so much and thank you for subscribing to the channel!

  • @paulinap-k8409
    @paulinap-k84093 жыл бұрын

    Wow the sharpness is just spot on!

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Incredible lens in so many ways!

  • @jeffirish3402
    @jeffirish340216 күн бұрын

    Bought mine new almost fifty years ago. It is an an outstanding lens (though the other Nikon pre-AI lenses are no slouches either) and I've taken some of my favorite pictures with it.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    16 күн бұрын

    Great lens indeed! It’s amazing you’ve had yours for almost 50 years! Nikon made so many phenomenal lenses back in the day.

  • @SovietLensReviews
    @SovietLensReviews3 жыл бұрын

    Great review! I haven't used the Nikkor 105 but do have a very similar Soviet 100/f2.8 in my kit, it's definitely amongst my favourite lenses for a lot of the reasons you show here.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much! Which Soviet lens do you have in this focal length?

  • @SovietLensReviews

    @SovietLensReviews

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks I have a Kaleinar-5N, it's not too popular (yet)

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@SovietLensReviews Nice! I've been wanting to try the Kaleinar-5N for awhile! I've heard great things about it.

  • @randallstewart175
    @randallstewart1752 жыл бұрын

    I bought a pre-AI version of the 71-75 105mm in Japan in 1976. It was stolen about 15 years ago, so I replaced it with the stlll later double Gauss design AI-s version. While I mostly shoot medium format, when I do shoot 35mm, this 105mm 2.5 is one of the few lenses I go to. This lens was my standard selection for shooting steam locomotives under full power, which I did from the early 1980s to around 2000, riding the coattails of a friend who was gaga for steam trains. Those pup;pies kick out a terrific amount of black oily dirt and steam when under power, so the 105mm gave the set-back required.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Amazing lens for sure!

  • @OccultDemonCassette
    @OccultDemonCassette3 жыл бұрын

    Love this specific version of this lens because of the rounded aperture blades. They went back to the straight edged blades in later versions of this lens for some odd reason.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Yeah, I love the 7 sided diaphragm with the rounded aperture blades. Great design for sure!

  • @jorgenbjorn
    @jorgenbjorn2 жыл бұрын

    Awesome channel! One of my friends gave me this lens which he inherited from his grandfather. The lens was extremely dirty and we actually both thought that it was impossible to clean. I cleaned it and it was as though the dirt had kept the glass intact! So now it's in pristine condition! I really love it! I found your channel as I was searching for people who had used it on a A7S III for video. I can't seem to find any though :)

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! That's awesome you were able to clean your lens! What a great story. Enjoy it! It's a jewel!

  • @jorgenbjorn

    @jorgenbjorn

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks Thank you and keep up the great work! :)

  • @paulfrancis2476
    @paulfrancis2476 Жыл бұрын

    Very nice video great job thanks

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you!!

  • @GrumpyTim
    @GrumpyTim3 жыл бұрын

    Another great video - I've bid on a few of the earlier non AI versions of this lens on ebay but been outbid each time - I might look out for the version you have in case I can find one of those instead.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!! Sorry to hear that you haven’t been able to get one on eBay. I can highly recommend this version! I was blown away by what this lens can do.

  • @nikolinkageorgieva2022
    @nikolinkageorgieva20223 жыл бұрын

    Super video-bravo👏😍👍

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @camchute
    @camchute3 жыл бұрын

    I have two copies of this lens, both of which I found at my local camera shop for less than $70 each. Luckily, both are the Zeiss Sonnar design and I am so happy with these. My favorites for sure.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    It’s amazing you found 2 copies for such a great price! Definitely one of the best lens ever made in this focal length! Enjoy!!

  • @cjmadridtv4289

    @cjmadridtv4289

    2 жыл бұрын

    Do you sell those? Im from philippines i hope you sell it :(

  • @johanvanhuyssteen9217
    @johanvanhuyssteen9217 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for sharing. I got the macro version, which I suspect might have a similar design, but it's the sharpest lens I've ever owned.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    You are welcome. That’s great that you have the micro Nikkor 100mm lens! Great optics indeed.

  • @michaelparcon3591
    @michaelparcon35913 жыл бұрын

    Excellent video as always! The sample pictures are superb! Did you used a full-frame Nikon body to take the images? If yes, what did you use? Thanks in advance.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for the nice comment! I appreciate it. All images were shot with my trusty Sony a7III. I use just a cheap dummy adapter that allows me to adapt any Nikon lens to my Sony full frame camera. Take care.

  • @jordan-leemccarthy8805
    @jordan-leemccarthy88053 жыл бұрын

    Just picked up this lens. Was lucky to find one in good condition

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Nice! Enjoy it. It's a fantastic lens!

  • @vitameat
    @vitameat2 жыл бұрын

    I recently was gifted a Nikon FM2 body (1983) and 3 Nikkor lenses bought in 1965 (Used on an F1 that went to Expo67) This is one of the 3 lenses.(Other are the f3.5 35-105mm and the f4 200mm) This, as well as a Rollei 35 circa 1969 were owned by an uncle who is now nearly 90 and has dementia...he wanted his gear to stay in the family. (A cousin of mine has his Nikkormat FTn and the 21 and 50mm lenses bought in 1967) This is all timeless, wonderful stuff that has inspired me to get back to photography as a hobby. (When I was much younger, I had Pentax/Praktica gear that I got rid of)

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for sharing your story and I am really sorry to hear that your uncle has dementia. But it's nice to know that he wants his equipment to stay in the family and you'll get to use his wonderfulI cameras and lenses. Was he a professional photographer? I am only asking because not many people who are amateurs have such a big range of lenses and cameras. Besides the 105mm f2.5 lens that you got, the Nikkor 200mm f4 is also fantastic! I'm sure you'll enjoy it. I reviewed it awhile ago and really loved it. I haven't tried the 35-105mm zoom yet. The Rollei 35 is also a super cool little camera! It will be great to shoot film with it. I was also gifted 2 cameras a few years ago before my uncle passed away. Both Soviet cameras with Soviet lenses. I think it's really special when photographic equipment is passed down from generation to generation. These cameras and lenses will always be very dear to me, because there is unique connection and history attached to them. That's another reason why vintage lenses are so special! Thank you again for sharing your story. Take care.

  • @vitameat

    @vitameat

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks He was not a pro, but a skilled amateur who believed in doing things as well as possible...he started his hobby while in Korea with the USMC in '53-54 and stayed with it most of his life.

  • @mhc2b
    @mhc2b2 жыл бұрын

    I recently had the pleasure/honor of purchasing one of the last few 105's to come off the assembly line in 2005 (serial # 1050xxx). It is also one of only a few to incorporate the SIC lens coating. It was delivered to me in "like new" condition. My plan is to use it with my D850.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Amazing!! Enjoy it! It’s an incredible lens!

  • @bangle8801

    @bangle8801

    6 ай бұрын

    How is out come with D850?

  • @mhc2b

    @mhc2b

    6 ай бұрын

    It is as sharp as its reputation. I struggle a bit with manual focus on the D850, but once focus is established, it is superb. I've ended up using it more with my Nikon F2 Photomic, shooting with Tri-X & TMax 100 films!!

  • @Narsuitus
    @Narsuitus Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the video. I love to use this lens in a 24/50/105 lens kit.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    You are welcome. That sounds like a great lens kit. Perfect for many situations. Which 50mm do you have?

  • @Narsuitus

    @Narsuitus

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@@VintageOptiks Nikkor 24mm f/2 AIS Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 AF-D or backup Nikon 50mm f/1.8 Series E Nikkor 105mm f/2.5 AIS

  • @CrnaInBela
    @CrnaInBela8 ай бұрын

    Hey these are some great photos.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    8 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much!

  • @JonnyEnglish-gu1cs
    @JonnyEnglish-gu1cs3 жыл бұрын

    Just bought a late Ais version can’t wait to use it on my film and digital cameras as they say it was the lens that captured the Afghan girl

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    That's wonderful! Enjoy it! And yes, Steve McCurry used it for his famous Nat Geo photo! Amazing lens!!

  • @helisoma
    @helisoma2 жыл бұрын

    I have the AI-S and pre-AI versions of this lens both mint condition as collectibles but haven't shot with them yet. You're stunning images inspired me to try the AI-S in my model photography (Nikon D850) 👍🏻

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you. Definitely give your lenses a try, especially the AI-S version. The optics are superb!

  • @lensman5762
    @lensman5762 Жыл бұрын

    I agree with all that you said, but wait till you tried the AIS 180 mm F2.8 ED goldring.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    Oh I have the 180mm f2.8 ED and I also reviewed it here on the channel. It’s one of my all time favorite lenses! Absolutely amazing!

  • @antontaranenko8824
    @antontaranenko8824 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the nice review 😊 I have both types, Sonnar and Gauss versions, Sonnar rendering better 3D like images, with slightly less contrast and sharpness on fully open... For later Gauss version you are absolutely right, colours and performance are amazing... I would suggest to buy both lenses, Sonnar is better for video shutting, and BW... Gauss version is best for stills...

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Yeah I would love to the Sonnar version at some point. It will be fun to see the differences between the two lenses.

  • @antontaranenko8824

    @antontaranenko8824

    Жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks Ou, forgot to mention other two stellar lenses from the same bunch of 100mm, you might love to try... These are M42 Fujinon 100mm f2.8 and Olympus OM Zuico 100mm f2. Olympus is a killer, but expensive...

  • @antontaranenko8824

    @antontaranenko8824

    Жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks kzread.info/dash/bejne/c3-oqaWsm73ZlKQ.html This is Sonnar type overview...

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    I would love to try the Zuiko 100mm f2, but as you mentioned, the prices are ridiculous.

  • @antontaranenko8824

    @antontaranenko8824

    Жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks yep, it is the same story, as Nikkor Nokt 58mm f1.2, rediculous price winded up by reach collectors. I got my in Japan for 8500 YEB - 85 USD, because of fungus and tiny scratch on the front, after cleaning and regreasing became like new...

  • @sergeantcrow
    @sergeantcrow3 жыл бұрын

    Brilliant !

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much!

  • @sergeantcrow

    @sergeantcrow

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks All thanks to you.. I love your intro, your style and enveloped in that, an excellent presentation with concise facts and valuable help.. Well done for finding that gem for $30 !

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@sergeantcrowThank you!!! It's so nice to hear that people appreciate my humble little videos. I hope that they are helpful and informative. I got lucky finding this one for so cheap, and thankfully the elements didn't have any scratches or haze. Fungus is pretty easy to deal with.

  • @richardsimms251
    @richardsimms2516 ай бұрын

    Very good video

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    6 ай бұрын

    Thanks so much!

  • @paulcrawley7321
    @paulcrawley73213 жыл бұрын

    I have this lens and the 24mm f2.8, 50mm f1.4 and the 200mm f4 (all manual focus ais) and they are amazing on the D800e/D850, just goes to show you don't need the mega expensive lenses (I've got some of them too). Great video and presentation, a bit like the Pearl and Dean in the cinemas from years ago.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    I completely agree! These old Nikkor lenses performing incredibly well and there is no need to spend crazy amounts of money on new plastic lenses. Thank you for your message and I am glad that you enjoyed the video!

  • @douglaslemus1726

    @douglaslemus1726

    2 жыл бұрын

    I just purchased the 28mm AI version I hope I didn’t make a mistake by not purchasing the ais version, your thoughts?

  • @paulcrawley7321

    @paulcrawley7321

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@douglaslemus1726 I don't think so see this off DPreview Ai lenses have only ONE set of aperture values on them, while AiS lenses have two sets of aperture numbers....a big-sized set, and behind them and closer to the body is a smaller,secondary set of numbers called the ADP or Aperture DIrect Readout set....this were seen through the viewfinder by means of a reflecting mirror system on bodies like the F3, FE-2,etc.

  • @douglaslemus1726

    @douglaslemus1726

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@paulcrawley7321 wow thanks for the detailed response. I find the ai version to still be absolutely incredible. Do you think it’s inferior compared to the ais?

  • @paulcrawley7321

    @paulcrawley7321

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@douglaslemus1726 I wouldn't think so but I haven't used either, I know that the various 105mm f2.5 are the same IQ imho.

  • @wolfpack9iloilo
    @wolfpack9iloilo3 жыл бұрын

    Yep my favorite vintage lens and won't sell it ever.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Nice! Never selling mine either :)

  • @paulgood2218
    @paulgood22188 ай бұрын

    I use the Nikon 105 f2 DC it's heavier but even sharper and better subject separation. One my favorite lens I use it more than my 200 f2 vrii .

  • @joseacarrasm
    @joseacarrasm3 жыл бұрын

    Great review, my favorite channel for vintage lens. Great lens but not as affordable as it should be.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! I'm glad you enjoy the channel.

  • @classic.cameras
    @classic.cameras Жыл бұрын

    I find myself watching your content non stop man. No wonder I am always tagging you on my Instagram account.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    That’s really nice of you to say. Thank you! Glad you enjoy the videos. And thank you for tagging me on IG. I appreciate it.

  • @athanasiospatsis7720
    @athanasiospatsis77203 жыл бұрын

    Nice review as always! Where do you live and have so close the wetlands?

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much! I love in North Carolina, but I got the coast of South Carolina often and that is where I photograph a lot of the wild creatures that you see on the channel.

  • @athanasiospatsis7720

    @athanasiospatsis7720

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks ;)

  • @MartinV.
    @MartinV.Ай бұрын

    nice!!

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Ай бұрын

    Thank you

  • @dgnwallz2
    @dgnwallz23 жыл бұрын

    I watch the review of this lens which I just bought. That is how good this lens is.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Glad to hear you got this amazing lens! Enjoy!

  • @PhotoViking
    @PhotoViking3 жыл бұрын

    I have a couple of versions of this lens. It is optically really good. Only downside is its irritating focus shift. As long as I focus at the aperture I”m going to use it’s not a big problem.

  • @sclogse1

    @sclogse1

    Жыл бұрын

    You find this issue more of a problem opening the aperature or closing it after focusing?

  • @PhotoViking

    @PhotoViking

    Жыл бұрын

    @@sclogse1 Normally on a normal lens I focus at full opening and the close the aperture. But with a lens with focus-shift you have to focus on every aperture and it is of course harder to do on smaller apertures.

  • @Cleverconveyence
    @Cleverconveyence6 ай бұрын

    I have the sonnar design one with the chrome and 5e/3g which i works better far away than close up like the revision. wondering if i should get an ai(s) version if i can find it

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    6 ай бұрын

    I personally love the Ai(S) Gauss version. It's a fantastic lens and it works great for my style of photography. The shorter minimum focusing distance definitely makes a difference.

  • @bartwaggoner2000
    @bartwaggoner20003 жыл бұрын

    Wow that landscape at 4:45! I did not think that focal length was appropriate.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    I quite enjoy using longer lenses for distant landscapes. You can get some really interesting shots that way.

  • @MrArn0ldus
    @MrArn0ldus3 жыл бұрын

    I have it and love it but love my 135mm f2.0 ai-s more.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Nice! I’m excited to test the ais 135mm f2 sometime in the future! So many amazing lenses to try!

  • @johnhennigar3769
    @johnhennigar37693 жыл бұрын

    I recognized the background in your images. I live near Brookgreen and Huntington.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    That's amazing! Yes, I go there from time to time to shoot with different lenses. So many beautiful places in that area! I also love the wildlife!

  • @snowblow1984
    @snowblow19843 жыл бұрын

    I have it atm on my d800. :)

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Nice!! :)

  • @creepyoldhouseexplorersclub
    @creepyoldhouseexplorersclub8 ай бұрын

    Is there any difference maybe other than coatings and price than the ai P version- there opticslly ghe same??

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    8 ай бұрын

    No difference optically speaking

  • @rafaelpaptzas6264
    @rafaelpaptzas62649 ай бұрын

    Are there any details available on disassembling for cleaning off fungus?

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    9 ай бұрын

    Check out this page: richardhaw.com/2017/10/26/repair-nikkor-105mm-f2-5k/

  • @jasongold6751
    @jasongold6751 Жыл бұрын

    my favorite lens, mine the earlier Sonnar version. Use one!

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    Glad to hear you also love this special lens! Cheers!

  • @chrisloomis1489
    @chrisloomis1489 Жыл бұрын

    Got it with my F3 and the motor drive too. Less than 300.00 including the 28mm Nikkor lens too.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    Sounds great! Enjoy

  • @genjigenji3633
    @genjigenji36332 жыл бұрын

    I just bought the older Nikkor-P 105MM with the three grouping. Do you know how it differs from this one?

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    The Nikkor P 105mm f2.5 is another Nikon classic! The older 5 elements in 3 groups version was made between 1959 and 1971, and based on the serial number there are a few differences. But in general, the main difference between the older and newer AI/ Ais versions is the optical system, the coatings, the lens hood (the old ones have a screw-in lens hood while the newer ones came with a built in lens hood, minimum focusing distance of the older versions was 1.2 meters compared to 1 meter in the newer versions). But both old and new versions have great reputation. Enjoy it! It’s a great lens!

  • @charliejg
    @charliejg2 жыл бұрын

    Beautiful images here! I've been looking at versions of this lens for sale. Are there important differences to be aware of between AI and non-AI versions if I want to use it with my mirrorless camera(Fuji X-T3)? Would you recommend sticking with an AI version?

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! There are several differences between the older non-Ai and the later AI version. The non-AI has a different optical design (5 elements in 3 groups), the Ai version has better coatings, the non-AI version does not have a built-in lens hood, and the AI version has shorter Minimum Focusing Distance - 1 meter compared to the 1.2 meters in the non-Ai. Both lenses are excellent, but if I had to pick one I'll go with the AI version. Take care!

  • @drazenzuvela1647

    @drazenzuvela1647

    2 жыл бұрын

    ​@@VintageOptiks this is not quite true. 5/4 optical design (called by some double Gauss or Xenotar) started with lens: - 1971. 105/2.5P (F type) - 1973. PC version (C type) - 1974. (K type), - 1977. (Ai type) and finally - (Ais type) 1981.-2005. Earlier version (F type) was made from 1959. It was 5/3 Sonar optical design. Easiest way to visually see difference, Sonar version has smaller back element then modern one. Very first one was lens for S type for rangefinder, with optical design 3/3. So, modern optical design was used with 3 preAi versions. Difference was in coatings. F type is not F mount . That is Nikon lens typology S, F, C, K, Ai, Ais..

  • @ociethomas6446

    @ociethomas6446

    2 жыл бұрын

    Do I get the Ais or Ai the nikon d610?

  • @bobamarmstrong

    @bobamarmstrong

    Жыл бұрын

    @@ociethomas6446 the AI has rounded blades, thus will give you rounded bokeh if you like that. But the AI-S version has a better coating and an integrated lens hood. I have the AI-S version and if I close my aperture like at F/4 or beyond, the bokeh is not pleasing due to the straight blades of the aperture. If I had too choose again, it would be the AI version. Nevertheless, they are all excellent

  • @MojoPapiFPV
    @MojoPapiFPV9 ай бұрын

    Great music

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    9 ай бұрын

    Thank you!

  • @ericchouinard8075
    @ericchouinard80753 жыл бұрын

    Excellent work. Thank you. Have you tried the Nikkor 85mm F2?

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thanks so much! I don't have the 85mm f2 yet, but I've been on the lookout for a good copy. I've heard great things about it and would love it to review it in the future. Have you tried it?

  • @ericchouinard8075

    @ericchouinard8075

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks No, but I have the opportunity to buy it (the F2)...

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@ericchouinard8075 Sounds great!

  • @Machster10
    @Machster102 жыл бұрын

    You need a speed booster type adaptor to make the lens work and take advantage of it

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Speedbooster is an adapter that allows a full frame lens to be used on an APSC or M4/3 cameras, giving you almost full frame coverage. Which makes senses if you want to experience the full frame field of view of this lens on a cropped sensor, but since I’m using a camera with a full frame sensor (Sony a7III), speedbooster doesn’t make sense in my case and the cheap adapters I use work great!

  • @claudiagiulietta2672
    @claudiagiulietta26723 жыл бұрын

    ❤🔥

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Thank you!!

  • @LeDibeau
    @LeDibeau Жыл бұрын

    I've got one for my rangefinder an one converted to ai for my F cameras. They are sharp like chili :-)

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    That’s great to hear! Amazing lens for sure!

  • @douglaslemus1726
    @douglaslemus17262 жыл бұрын

    I’m not sure if I have the ai-or ais version how can I tell? My version doesn’t have the built in lens hood ..

  • @paganphil100

    @paganphil100

    2 жыл бұрын

    Douglas Lemus: See link below which explains the differences between pre-AI, AI and AIS. kzread.info/dash/bejne/a46AtbWseNWpfqg.html

  • @alwinbenjamin
    @alwinbenjamin Жыл бұрын

    ❤️‍🔥

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you! 🙏

  • @xoxjoms
    @xoxjoms2 жыл бұрын

    does it have auto focus? I have A Nikon d7000 body.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Nope. Manual focus only.

  • @sebvz89
    @sebvz89 Жыл бұрын

    Is there a big difference between the ai and ais version?

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    Optically, there is no difference between the 2 versions.

  • @Jacques-Ingela2024
    @Jacques-Ingela20242 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the great info. I plan to buy a K 105 / 2.5 673101 - 729914 - Sep 1974 - 1977 Ai kit 39. What is meant by Ai Kit 39 and does it fit on a Nikon D810? The one I am looking at goes from 2.5 to 32? Others I have been looking at just go to 22?

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hello! The Nikkor lens you are describing is the K mount version, which was pre-AI and has aperture that goes to f32. You'll have to get this lens converted to AI if you want to use it on your D810, otherwise it's not safe. It's best to just get the AI version (made after 1977 with aperture from f2.5 to f22, like the one in my video. That version will fit on your camera.

  • @Jacques-Ingela2024

    @Jacques-Ingela2024

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks Thanks a lot! 🙏🏻👍🏻

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    You are welcome!

  • @hassyguy
    @hassyguy2 жыл бұрын

    I have the 1.8 version of this lens. This lens is legendary. This is also the famous Afghan girl lens by Steve McCurry.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    That’s great to hear that you have the f1.8 version! How do you like it? Yes, the f2.5 lens was used by Steve McCurry and also by several other professional photographers at the time. It’s still considered one of the best 100mm lenses ever made. It’s a legend!

  • @AntPDC

    @AntPDC

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks The f/1.8 105 AI-s is slightly sharper than the 2.5 (but only for pixel peepers), and it has a subjectively more pleasing bokeh and overall colour rendition. However, it's almost three times the price of the 2.5 and is noticeably bigger in heft. I love it, along with that other legendary Nikkor, the 180mm f/2.8 ED AI-s.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    I would love to try the f1.8 version at some point! It sounds fantastic! And just like you I also love the 180mm f2.8 ED AIS! It’s simply phenomenal! One of my all time favorite lenses!!

  • @AntPDC

    @AntPDC

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks Oh yes, I just saw your brilliant review of the 180mm ED AI-s - it was beautifully done, and absolutely spot on! I got my 1.8 105 from Japan (where almost all the good copies are). Cost me £360 ($488) for the near-mint I wanted. Doubtless I'll be facing a hefty import bill in a few weeks! All in the name of art, right?

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@AntPDC Thank you so much! The 180mm f2.8 ED AI-S is incredible! I feel lucky to have one. Congrats on getting the 105mm f1.8!! It's definitely worth the price in the name of art. Enjoy it and happy shooting!

  • @moustachio334
    @moustachio33425 күн бұрын

    Always prefer the F2 DC design more. This is a good lens for someone to get into vintage mechanical Nikon bodies. I guess it focuses faster on the Phony than a native AF lens. Sharpness is boring.

  • @ryanbeer5262
    @ryanbeer52623 жыл бұрын

    Tg, I already have one. Like yours, it has fungus & needs new greas. I thought I got a good deal, $30 is incredible

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Glad you found one for a good price! Enjoy it! I definitely got super lucky with this one.

  • @kevinmarcus625
    @kevinmarcus6253 жыл бұрын

    Would you recommend this over the 85 f1.4 AIS?

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Well, they are different lenses that will give you different results. The 85mm f1.4 has a shorter focal length and is faster, which will give you shallower depth of field (if that is something that you are after). It's a great portrait lens and one of the best 85mm lenses out there! The 105mm f2.5 is a bit longer and slower, but it's an absolute masterpiece of a lens. It is considered on of the best 100mm lenses ever made! So, it just depends on what is important for you - short telephoto with speed and shallow depth of field or longer telephoto with slower speed but amazing resolution even wide open. Also if price is something you are considering, the 85mm f1.4 is much more expensive lens than the 105m f2.5. At the end of the day it's all up to you and what you want to achieve, but you can't go wrong with either lens.

  • @kevinmarcus625

    @kevinmarcus625

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks great response man. thank you! I ended up going with the 85 f1.4 :)

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    @@kevinmarcus625 Nice!! It’s an amazing lens! Enjoy!!

  • @miklosnemeth8566
    @miklosnemeth85662 жыл бұрын

    4:32 Wow, You took that photo with this this lens? Bird in flight? Did you have a chance to compare this lens to the Micro-Nikkor 105 f2.8 AI-S?

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yeah, I just happened to be in the right place at the right time. Sometimes I get lucky :) I haven’t had a chance to compare this lens to the Micro Nikkor 105mm ff2.8.

  • @iraklidarchiashvili2166
    @iraklidarchiashvili21663 жыл бұрын

    There are many 35mm vintage lenses. Coul you compare few of them?

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Yeah sure.

  • @fistfulloflenses
    @fistfulloflenses3 ай бұрын

    oh no ,i think i want another lens

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 ай бұрын

    You would love it. It's an incredible lens!

  • @ZariunM
    @ZariunM2 жыл бұрын

    I had this lens until I got scammed on eBay. Now I realized how much I loved it

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Sorry to hear you no longer have it. I hope you can get it again. It's a really special lens for sure!

  • @Jeff-zc6rr
    @Jeff-zc6rr6 ай бұрын

    Some are saying the Sonnar is the better lens, is that false?

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    6 ай бұрын

    When it comes to Gauss vs Sonnar it's all about personal preference. It will be best f you have a chance to shoot both versions and then decide which one you like best for your style of photography. But I understand that probably that's not an option. The Gauss can focus a little closer than the Sonnar and has 7 instead of 6 aperture blades. . The Gauss is a bit sharper wide open and has better corner to corner performance. The Gauss also has better micro contrast. When it comes to bokeh - they are both great, but the Sonnar bokeh is a bit more pleasing in my opinion. The reason why some people like the Sonnar better is because it has more of that vintage look. The Gauss is perhaps a bit more normal and doesn't have as much character. But the differences are quite small. For me, I like them both for different reasons and situations, but if I had to pick one I'll choose the Gauss type. But that of course is based on my personal style of shooting. Hope this helps.

  • @Jeff-zc6rr

    @Jeff-zc6rr

    6 ай бұрын

    @@VintageOptiks Thank you so much. I have an opportunity to get the Sonnar one and perhaps i will try to get both.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    6 ай бұрын

    @@Jeff-zc6rr You are welcome. If you can get them both that would be the best way to decide. Good luck and happy shooting!

  • @ModernVintageFilm
    @ModernVintageFilm2 жыл бұрын

    TOP

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    🙌

  • @stevekim4162
    @stevekim4162 Жыл бұрын

    take it apart?? gotta be hard

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    It’s actually quite easy. And if you are wondering how to go about it, there are several tutorials on the internet that show you the process.

  • @melvinch
    @melvinch2 жыл бұрын

    The infamouse Afghan Girl lens.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yes!

  • @reinhartreuschel5499
    @reinhartreuschel54998 ай бұрын

    Fine lens, indeed. But I prefer the Micro-Nikkor 105mm - it has some more options. @philosimot

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    8 ай бұрын

    I love the Micro-Nikkor 105 as well. A great lens indeed!

  • @rwdplz1
    @rwdplz1 Жыл бұрын

    Checking eBay, found several in TERRIBLE condition for $80ish.

  • @rodneywatkins4731
    @rodneywatkins47313 жыл бұрын

    Seven blades. Heptagon bokeh! I’m such a Tool.

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Yes the very unusual Heptagon bokeh!

  • @sclogse1
    @sclogse1 Жыл бұрын

    Remember folks, when it comes in the mail, be sure you already have the adapter...gotta keep that blood pressure down...

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    Жыл бұрын

    Haha

  • @tomislavmiletic_
    @tomislavmiletic_3 жыл бұрын

    I've had that lens back in the day, but as idiot as I am, I've sold it...

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Ah, sorry to hear that you sold it. Once in awhile you can still find decent prices on the used market. I hope you can get one again. Take Care.

  • @MrByrd-ep5pd
    @MrByrd-ep5pd3 жыл бұрын

    Why did you have your models in your portraits wearing maskes? Please!

  • @VintageOptiks

    @VintageOptiks

    3 жыл бұрын

    Why?!?!? Because it was the peak of the deadly world pandemic (also known as COVID) when I took those shots. Is that not a valid reason?