* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Nikon 35mm f/2 NIKKOR AI Manual Focus Lens {52}
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$77.00
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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 35mm f/2 NIKKOR AI: the workhorse wide-normal prime.
The 35mm f/2 NIKKOR AI is a fixed focal length lens built around Nikon's F mount with AI metering coupling, meaning the aperture communicates directly with the camera body's meter on compatible Nikon bodies. That coupling matters for film shooters who want metered exposure than guesswork. The 52mm filter thread is a standard Nikon size, so existing filter sets from other NIKKOR lenses will likely carry over without buying new glass.
Manual focus is the whole point here. You're working the aperture ring and focus yourself, which slows you down just enough to be deliberate. At f/2, there's enough speed for available-light work indoors or at dusk without flash. This is a lens that rewards patience and suits shooters who have already decided that the shot is worth the discipline of manual operation. At this focal length and maximum aperture, it fits naturally on Nikon film bodies that support AI-coupled lenses, and it remains usable on compatible Nikon DSLRs as well.
Who It's For
Film photographers shooting with AI-compatible Nikon bodies get metered exposure without adapters or workarounds, which makes this a natural match for anyone already invested in the F-mount ecosystem. Street and documentary shooters drawn to a 35mm field of view will find the manual focus discipline fits a slower, more considered approach to framing. Photographers building a manual-only kit appreciate that the 52mm filter thread aligns with other NIKKOR lenses, keeping filter costs down. Anyone transitioning from auto to manual operation has a practical, single focal length to learn on.
Key Features
- 35mm focal length, prime fixed lens
- f/2 maximum aperture for available-light work
- Nikon F mount with AI metering coupling
- 52mm filter thread compatible with standard Nikon accessories
- Manual focus operation
- Metered exposure on compatible film and digital bodies
FAQ
- What does AI metering coupling mean for my camera?
- The AI coupling allows the lens aperture to communicate directly with your camera's meter on compatible bodies, so you get metered exposure readout in the viewfinder without having to use stop-down metering. This is essential for film shooters who want reliable exposure information while keeping full manual control.
- Will this lens work on my Nikon DSLR?
- Yes, on compatible Nikon DSLRs that support AI-coupled lenses. The aperture ring will communicate with the body's meter, though autofocus won't function since this is a manual-focus design.
- What's the filter thread size?
- 52mm, which is standard across many Nikon primes, so you can reuse existing filters from other NIKKOR lenses.
- Is f/2 fast enough for low-light work?
- At f/2, you have enough speed for available-light shooting indoors and at dusk without flash. For faster film or brighter conditions, you'll stop down accordingly.
- Can I use this on film cameras other than Nikon?
- No, this is Nikon F mount only. It's built specifically for Nikon film bodies and compatible digital bodies.
- Do I need any adapters to use this lens?
- No adapters are necessary on Nikon F-mount bodies that support AI coupling. The lens mounts directly.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 35mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2 |
| Mount | Nikon F (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 | Wide-Angle |
| Max Focal Length | 35mm |
| Min Focal Length | 35mm |
Learn what to expect cosmetically from each grade. Images are representative and may not reflect the exact item. All gear is guaranteed functional unless noted. Accessories are typically not included unless listed. Like New through Bargain grades include a 180-day warranty. Items may also be available.
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 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
Heavily used with noticeable cosmetic and optical wear, but performance is mostly unaffected. 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. 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.
