Nikon Nikkor 35mm f/2.8 Pre-AI Review

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August 2007

From the serial number this Nikon 35 2.8 it was made in the mid to late 70's. It is a Pre-AI Nikkor lens, and has been modified to work with newer cameras, I.e. it has been AI'D. So the question is; is it worth it to convert this lense to fit today's Nikon cameras?

Specifications

Positives

• Build quality
  
• IR/DOF markings

Drawbacks

• Soft wide open, gets sharper @ f/4, good sharpness @ f/5.6
  
• Hot-spot @ f8 with IR

Verdict

In my opinion it's not worth it to convert this lens to today's cameras. Especially since you can get the AI version for less then $100 second hand. The lens is soft @ f/2.8, it gets pretty sharp @ f/4, and it's excellent from f/5.6 to f/11. Note that the lens performs better at close range then infinity.

Features
Performance
IR Performance
Build
Value

Alternatives

Purchasing items through these links helps me adding more content to this website. The links takes you to B&H's website, which is my recommended store to get equipment from. I've used B&H personally since 2005, and I get all my equipment from them these days(including the lenses used for these reviews). Thanks for your support, Fredrik.

Nikon AF 35mm f/2.0D From: $319.95 USD

Nikon 35mm f/1.4 AI-S From: $999.95 USD

Zeiss 35mm f/2 ZF Distagon T* From: $826.00 USD

Nikon AF Zoom Nikkor 18-35mm f/3.5-4.5D ED-IF From: $569.95 USD

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm f/4G ED VR From: $1,239.99 USD

Nikon AF-S Zoom Nikkor 17-35mm f/2.8D ED-IF From: $1,599.95 USD

*Prices are subject to change. Listed price is from May 8, 2010

Sample Pictures

Images have been imported to photoshop CS3 through Capture NX 2 thus leaving the original image settings as shot, I. E white balance, sharpening, etc .etc. Full resolution sample images are in RGB color mode. Check out my copyright page for information about usage of these images.