Nikon has some wonderful cameras and lenses in its portfolio. While Nikon has some fabulous budget offerings, they also provide some spectacular optics for professionals. For instance, the 50mm f0.95 Noct is an example of that. However, it is not the only option right now. Here is a look at another lens, from the F-mount series, that is a collector’s dream.
The model we are talking about is the Nikon AI (Automatic Indexing) 13mm f5.6, a rare lens that offers an ultra wide lens from the 1970s. It is celebrated as the “Holy Grail” of Nikon glass for its optical purity. On eBay, the lens sold for $44,729, which is a lot for an F-mount series. However, it is also a lens that does not come to the auction platforms easily.
The optical system of “Nikkor 13mm f/5.6” was designed by Mr. MORI, Ikuo of 1st Optical Section, Optical Designing Department (then). Mr. Mori was the right-hand man of Mr. WAKIMOTO, introduced in Tale One. The lenses designed by Mr. MORI varies from ultra wide angle Nikkors for F mount, PC Nikkors, Nikkors for Bronica, Nikkors for large format cameras to EL Nikkors for enlarging.
Nikon’s website
The Nikon lens was made of 16 elements in 12 groups, offers 118° angle of view, and has a close focusing distance of 0.3m. There are also 4 built-in bayonet filters (clear, UV, Y48, O12X), and weighs about 1.2kg. The lens is designed for landscapes, architecture and interior photography. In fact, designed on such a large mount, it offers a straight lens without barrel distortion. CRC also ensures corner sharpness at close range, while minimal light falloff/chromatic aberration sets it apart from typical ultra-wides. The lens is also designed for F2 Photonic and later models.
The lens has a limited production, with Nikon creating not more than 2000 lenses. The lack of production itself makes it one of the most sought-after lenses. In addition, given its design and build, it is impossible to come across something like this today. With more photographers looking back to purchase film, it is obvious some collectors are likely to take it off the hands of sellers very soon.
If you are someone who likes older lenses, then this model is worth looking at. It is, after all, one of the best lenses Nikon ever created.