* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Nikon 135mm f/2.8 NIKKOR Non 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 NIKKOR: a pre-AI portrait staple built to last.
This 135mm f/2.8 NIKKOR predates Nikon's AI metering coupling, placing it in the early era of F-mount optics when lenses were built to a mechanical standard that still holds up decades later. The fixed 135mm focal length sits in a range long favored by portrait and documentary photographers, and the f/2.8 maximum aperture gives you meaningful light-gathering and subject separation without the bulk of faster glass. Stopping down to f/32 covers any scenario where deep focus is the priority.
The 52mm filter thread is a common size, so polarizers, ND filters, and protective glass are easy to source. Manual focus is the only mode here, which rewards photographers who slow down and work deliberately. On older F-mount film bodies or pre-AI-compatible DSLRs, this lens operates as intended, giving you direct aperture control and tactile focus.
Who It's For
Film photographers shooting on classic Nikon SLR bodies get exactly what this lens was designed for: a fast, fixed medium-telephoto with direct mechanical control. Portrait shooters who prefer manual focus for precise plane-of-focus work will appreciate the f/2.8 aperture at 135mm. Collectors building out a pre-AI Nikon system have a foundational telephoto to pair with bodies from that era. Street and documentary photographers who shoot deliberately on film will find the focal length and aperture combination well-suited to controlled, intentional framing.
Key Features
- Fixed 135mm focal length for portrait and documentary work
- f/2.8 maximum aperture with f/32 minimum
- Nikon F mount (Non-AI, pre-AI metering coupling)
- Manual focus only, no autofocus
- 52mm filter thread for easy accessory mounting
- All-mechanical design with no electronic components
FAQ
- What's the difference between Non-AI and AI Nikon lenses?
- Non-AI lenses predate Nikon's automatic indexing (AI) metering coupling system. This 135mm lacks the AI prong and metering linkage, so it pairs with older F-mount film bodies or manual-focus vintage gear where you set aperture directly on the lens.
- Can I use this lens on a modern digital camera?
- It will mount on any F-mount DSLR mechanically, but you'll have no electronic communication between lens and body. Metering and autofocus are irrelevant here anyway - you focus manually and set aperture by hand.
- What focal length is this, and who shoots 135mm?
- Fixed 135mm is a classic portrait focal length that compresses features favorably and isolates subjects without stepping back as far as a 50mm would require. Documentary and wedding photographers also favor it for working at a distance with reach.
- How close can I focus with this lens?
- The verified specs don't list a minimum focus distance. You'll need to check the barrel or a user manual for that figure.
- Is f/2.8 fast enough for indoor or low-light work?
- f/2.8 on a fixed 135mm gives you meaningful subject separation and light-gathering, though faster primes (f/2 or f/1.8) exist in this focal length. Stopping down to f/32 is available if you need maximum depth of field.
- What size filters does this lens take?
- 52mm thread - a standard size with plenty of affordable options for polarizers, ND filters, and protection.
- Is this a reliable lens to buy secondhand?
- Nikon built these lenses to a mechanical standard decades ago, and they hold up. Manual-focus optics have no electronic components to fail, and the Non-AI design is straightforward glass and metal. Check for clean optics, smooth focus ring, and an aperture ring that clicks cleanly.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 135mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8-32 |
| Min Aperture | f/32 |
| Mount | Nikon F (Non-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 Non-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.
