* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Nikon 100mm f/2.8 Series E AIS Manual Focus Lens {52}
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$92.00
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KEH Certified™ pre-owned gear, expertly inspected†
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All rental gear is between Excellent and Like New Minus condition
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Standard accessories included
Nikon's compact 100mm f/2.8 Series E built for sharp portrait work.
The Series E lenses were Nikon's answer to a market that wanted F-mount glass without the price of Nikkor optics, and the 100mm f/2.8 stands as one of the most respected pieces of that lineup. At f/2.8, you get enough subject separation to shoot portraits or close-focus work with real background rolloff, and the 100mm focal length sits in a flattering range that keeps you at a comfortable working distance from your subject. The AI-S mount means full mechanical coupling with older Nikon bodies that support aperture-priority automation, so this lens fits naturally into a manual-film workflow.
The 52mm filter thread is a practical detail that Nikon standardized across many of its lenses from this era, which means your existing filter set likely carries over without adapters. Manual focus only, so you are fully in control of the plane of focus, which suits deliberate shooting styles far better than run-and-gun work. For the cost of entry on a fast short telephoto in the Nikon F ecosystem, there are few better arguments than this one.
Who It's For
Film shooters running Nikon F-mount bodies get direct AI-S coupling for aperture-priority automation without modification. Portrait photographers working at deliberate paces will find the 100mm focal length and f/2.8 maximum aperture a reliable combination for flattering compression and subject separation. Studio and macro-adjacent shooters who want precise manual focus control benefit from the full-manual operation. Digital photographers using F-to-mirrorless adapters on Sony, Fujifilm GFX, or Nikon Z systems gain an affordable short telephoto with a proven optical design.
Key Features
- Nikon F AI-S mount for aperture-priority automation on compatible bodies
- 100mm focal length optimized for flattering portrait distances
- f/2.8 maximum aperture delivers subject separation and background rolloff
- Manual focus design for deliberate, precise focus control
- 52mm filter thread compatible with standard filter sets
- Series E optical design delivers optical quality at entry-level pricing
FAQ
- What's the difference between Series E and standard Nikkor 100mm lenses?
- Series E lenses were Nikon's budget-conscious line built to the same F-mount standard but with simplified optical designs and stripped manufacturing costs. The 100mm f/2.8 Series E delivers the same focal length and aperture as pricier Nikkor alternatives while maintaining the optical quality that made these lenses collectible.
- Will this lens work with aperture-priority automation on older Nikon bodies?
- Yes, the AI-S mount provides full mechanical coupling with Nikon cameras that support aperture priority. You can meter and let the camera set shutter speed while you control the aperture ring manually.
- What filter size do I need for this lens?
- 52mm filters fit directly. This size was standard across much of Nikon's lineup from that era, so your existing filter kit likely covers it without adapters.
- Is this lens suitable for fast film or digital work?
- The f/2.8 aperture gives enough light for fast film in daylight and overcast conditions. On digital, you gain the subject separation and rendering that f/2.8 provides at 100mm, which is why portraits remain its strongest application.
- Can I use this on modern Nikon DSLRs and mirrorless cameras?
- Modern Nikon DSLRs with F-mount accept it without issues. Mirrorless Nikon Z cameras require an FTZ adapter. Manual focus is required in both cases - there's no autofocus motor in this lens.
- How does the 100mm focal length compare for portrait work?
- 100mm is considered flattering for head-and-shoulders portraits because it requires you to step back far enough to avoid perspective distortion while still filling the frame. You're working at a comfortable distance from your subject.
- What kind of bokeh should I expect at f/2.8?
- The Series E optical formula produces serviceable background separation at f/2.8, particularly effective when shooting close-focus work or placing subjects against distant backgrounds. Bokeh character is smooth but not as refined as premium glass from the same period.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 100mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Mount | Nikon F (AI-S) |
This description was generated using AI based on KEH's internal product standards, product expertise, and knowing what customers care about most. While we strive for accuracy, details may vary by individual item.
| Brand Name | Nikon |
|---|---|
| Filter Size | 52mm |
| Focus Type | Manual focus (only) |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F Mount Ai-S |
| Lens Type | Short Tele / Portrait |
| Max Focal Length | 100mm |
| Min Focal Length | 100mm |
Learn what to expect from each condition, cosmetically. Images are representative of each grade and may not show the exact item you receive. All equipment is guaranteed to work as intended, unless otherwise noted. We also occasionally offer items that fall .
Exceptions
- New
- New in box complete with manufacturer's USA warranty. Not previously owned or used.
- Like New
- Essentially new with no signs of use. “Open box.” In manufacturer's packaging with original accessories and instructions. 180-day warranty.
- As Is
- Non-functional or damaged. Equipment will not work. Usable for parts. Not covered under KEH warranty and non-returnable.
Like New Minus
Like New Minus
Barely used with virtually no traces of wear. Only the closest inspections will reveal slight use. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Excellent Plus
Excellent Plus
Lightly used with limited signs of wear. Exceptionally nice but may have slight wear on finish visible. Lens glass could contain light dust or debris. Excellent picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Excellent
Excellent
Noticeably used with average signs of wear. Shows moderate wear for the age of the item, with the possibility of blemishes and/or minimal dings. Lens glass may have average dust and zoom/focus ring tension may have slight looseness or tightness overall, but will not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Bargain
Bargain
Frequently used with above-average wear. May have dents, dings, or finish loss. Lens glass may have small scratches, dust, and blemishes, and zoom/focus ring tension may have moderate looseness or tightness overall, but should not affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. 180-day warranty.
Ugly
Ugly
Heavily used with extensive visible wear. Equipment is rough, with multiple impressions in the finish, excessive finish loss and brassing. Glass will have marks, fungus and/or heavy/cloudy haze which could affect picture quality. Accessories usually not included, unless noted in listing. Not covered under KEH warranty.