* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Nikon 135mm f/2.8 NIKKOR AI Manual Focus Lens {52} (f/2.8-32)
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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 135mm f/2.8 AI NIKKOR, a classic portrait-reach prime.
The 135mm focal length has a long history in portrait and documentary work, putting enough distance between photographer and subject to flatten perspective without going so long that communication becomes difficult. At f/2.8, this NIKKOR gives you a workable maximum aperture for separating subjects from backgrounds in available light. The 52mm filter thread keeps accessory costs low and matches a wide range of Nikon-era filters if you're shooting film.
The Nikon AI mount is the mechanical foundation here. It couples with the aperture-indexing tab found on AI-compatible Nikon bodies, allowing metering through the lens on any body that supports the AI standard. Manual focus is the operating mode, full stop, so this lens rewards photographers who are deliberate about focus acquisition than chasing action. The aperture range runs from f/2.8 through f/32, giving a full spread from wide-open shooting to heavy diffraction territory for those who need it.
Who It's For
Photographers shooting on AI-compatible Nikon film SLRs get full metering integration without any modification or adapter. Portrait photographers working at considered pace find the 135mm focal length useful for head-and-shoulders framing with natural working distance. Street and documentary shooters who prefer a slower, more intentional approach get a compact prime that doesn't announce itself. Studio and still-life photographers who stop down for depth of field can work through the full f/2.8-to-f/32 range with direct aperture control.
Key Features
- 135mm focal length for portrait and documentary work
- f/2.8 maximum aperture for subject separation in available light
- Nikon AI mount with aperture-indexing tab coupling
- Manual focus for deliberate focus acquisition
- 52mm filter thread for affordable accessory options
- f/32 minimum aperture for deep diffraction control
FAQ
- What bodies will this lens work with?
- The Nikon AI mount couples with any camera that supports AI indexing. Manual focus operates on all bodies; metering through the lens works on AI-compatible bodies with the indexing tab.
- Is this lens good for portraits?
- 135mm is a classic portrait focal length-far enough from your subject to avoid perspective distortion, close enough that you're not shouting across a room. f/2.8 gives you separation from the background in most available light.
- Can I use this on a digital camera?
- Yes, if it has an AI-compatible mount. You'll focus manually and stop down to meter on most digital bodies, or use external metering.
- What filter size does this take?
- 52mm. That's small enough that filters and hoods won't break the bank, and you'll find plenty of used Nikon-era glass that shares the same thread.
- How close can I focus?
- The specs don't provide a minimum focus distance. Check the barrel or the original documentation for your specific copy.
- What's the weight and length?
- Exact dimensions and weight aren't listed in the specifications. Compact enough for travel but solid enough to feel like a real lens, which is all most shooters need to know.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 135mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8-32 |
| Min Aperture | f/32 |
| Mount | Nikon AI |
| Filter Thread | 52mm |
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 |
| Lens Type | Short Tele / Portrait |
| Max Focal Length | 135mm |
| Min Focal Length | 135mm |
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.
