* Item pictured for illustrative purposes only, actual item not pictured. See ‘Notes’ next to grade for included items.
Nikon 45mm f/2.8 P NIKKOR AIS Manual Focus Lens, Chrome {52}
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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 Pancake-Style 45mm f/2.8 P NIKKOR in Chrome
A 45mm f/2.8 prime built to the AIS standard, this pancake-profile NIKKOR mounts to the Nikon F system and carries a 52mm filter thread for straightforward filter use. Manual focus is the only mode here, and that's the point: full aperture and distance rings, direct tactile control, no motor to hunt or hesitate.
The 45mm focal length sits close to a natural perspective on full-frame Nikon bodies, making it a good match for street photography, documentary work, and everyday walk-around shooting where a compact, unobtrusive lens matters more than a fast telephoto reach. At f/2.8 maximum aperture, it's suited to available-light and moderate depth-of-field control than low-light extremes, which keeps the barrel slim and the weight low.
The chrome finish gives it a distinct, classic look on the front of a camera body, distinguishing it from the black-finish AI and AIS lenses most shooters are used to seeing. Because it's a fully mechanical AIS design, it pairs naturally with older Nikon F-mount film bodies and manual-focus-capable digital bodies that support AI/AIS metering coupling.
For photographers who want a small, honest lens that rewards deliberate framing and manual technique, this is a straightforward tool without extra complexity.
Who It's For
Street photographers will appreciate the compact, low-profile barrel and the 45mm field of view, which reads close to how the eye sees a scene and stays unobtrusive when shooting candidly in public. Documentary and travel shooters benefit from the light weight and manual-only operation, which keeps the kit simple and mechanically reliable without batteries or autofocus motors to manage. Film shooters running older Nikon F-mount bodies gain a lens built to the AIS standard, matching the metering coupling of classic manual-focus cameras. Photographers who prefer full manual control over aperture and focus, than relying on autofocus systems, will find the direct ring feedback and f/2.8 maximum aperture suited to deliberate, considered composition.
Key Features
- 45mm focal length with natural perspective rendering
- f/2.8 maximum aperture for available-light and moderate depth control
- Manual focus only with direct mechanical control
- Nikon F mount (AIS standard) for film and digital bodies
- 52mm filter thread for straightforward filter compatibility
- Chrome finish for distinctive classic appearance
- Fully mechanical design with no autofocus motor
- Pancake-profile construction for compact, lightweight handling
FAQ
- Is this a true pancake lens?
- Pancake-profile, yes - it's built compact and sits close to the camera body. The AIS design keeps the barrel slim compared to faster primes, though exact dimensions aren't the focus here; the handling and size-to-usefulness ratio are.
- What's the difference between AIS and AI metering on older Nikon bodies?
- AIS lenses couple to the camera's meter and support stopped-down metering without requiring a modification lever. On AI bodies, you'll still get full manual control and focus coupling, but stopped-down metering is your only option unless the body has been AI'd to AIS spec.
- Can I use this on digital Nikon bodies?
- Yes, on any F-mount digital camera that supports manual focus - autofocus-only bodies won't work. On bodies like the D700 or D800 series, you'll get full manual control and stop-down metering through the viewfinder.
- What's the practical focal length equivalent on a DX sensor?
- Nikon's DX bodies multiply the physical focal length by 1.5x, so this becomes roughly 67mm - wider than the standard 85mm portrait focal length, making it more versatile for rangier indoor and travel work.
- Why 45mm instead of 50mm?
- 45mm sits between the 50mm and 35mm norms, offering a natural perspective that reads neither quite standard nor wide. It's a deliberate focal length choice for its own framing character rather than fitting a traditional category.
- Does the chrome finish affect optical performance?
- No - the finish is cosmetic. Chrome is easier to keep clean than black lacquer and gives the lens a distinct period look, but optical coatings and element spacing drive image quality, not exterior finish.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 45mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2.8 |
| Mount | Nikon F (AIS) |
| Filter Thread | 52 mm |
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 | Standard / Normal |
| Max Focal Length | 45mm |
| Min Focal Length | 45mm |
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.
