Care to add an early version of the iconic Nikon F to your collection?
If you like some fascinating history in the cameras that you collect and shoot with, one of the vintage gems you surely have on your list is the iconic Nikon F. It’s still relatively easy to find it in good/usable condition on ebay and secondhand markets. But if we give you a heads up that you can grab an early version in nearly mint condition, how much are you willing to pay for it? Would, say, $2,500 be just right or too much?
For the uninitiated, allow us to get you acquainted with this landmark camera. Introduced in early 1959, the Nikon F was Nikon’s first SLR camera and hailed as one of the most advanced cameras of its time. In fact, many consider it as the very first professional 35mm SLR camera, and the camera that cemented Nikon as the first choice of pro photographers. It was through the Nikon F that Japan toppled German camera makers as the undisputed leaders of the industry.
That’s indeed priceless as far as photography history goes, and certainly worth a premium for avid Nikon shooters. This is most likely what New Zealand-based ebay seller erywon had in mind when he listed a Nikon F “with early features in minty condition” for a buy it now price of $2,500.
“Here is a genuine, early Nikon F (no. 6417494) in nearly mint condition (just a slight circular tripod mark on the baseplate),” the seller described. “It has not been modified and comes with the original 5cm f2 lens (No. 532291), Nikon L39 chrome UV filter, Instructions, Nippon Kogaku Tokyo lens cap and case.”
The asking price may be steep, given that you can get a Nikon F body on ebay for $250 at most, if you’re not particular about getting an early version. A “most realistic price has been set,” the seller mentions anyway, given that everything is in “superb cosmetic and working condition” and it comes with free shipping worldwide. If you find this Nikon F particularly interesting, you might want to check out the ebay listing to find out more and buy it now (or make your best offer).
Images from the ebay listing by erywon