View Full Version : What is this 105mm f2.5 lens.
I have read from various places about this nikon 105mm lens. It seems to have a cult status. So from all you nikon expert people out there, can I ask?
-Why was it so legendary?
-Does it work with a Kiev II?
-Do they still make them (in SLR or other mount)?
-Is it expensive? Did any other manufacturer make a clone?
I do mostly potriats so I would really like to know if this is something worth investing in. My other lens is a Jupiter-9 and I have been waiting forever for a 85mm pentax in M42, but since I cannot get hold of that, perhaps the nikon would be good?
IGMeanwell
07-23-2006, 20:53
Here is a little information when googled (http://www.mir.com.my/rb/photography/companies/nikon/nikkoresources/6070nikkor/telephoto/105mm.htm)
but if it is like most Nikkor portrait lenses ... well the images usually speak for themselves
My main portrait lens for my DSLR (woops!) is the 85 1.8 ... its sharp at almost every stop and its not even considered near the best
the 'mir' site that IG links to is a good one. I use it and THIS ONE (Ken Rockwell's) (http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/nikkor.htm) when researching Nikon lenses. The Rockwell site goes into the "legend" behind particular Nikon lenses, and is a good place to spend a couple hours building up GAS. I have the 105/2.5 in AIS. It's a sharp lens, and very well made.
:)
IGMeanwell
07-23-2006, 21:04
the 'mir' site that IG links to is a good one. I use it and THIS ONE (Ken Rockwell's) (http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/nikkor.htm) when researching Nikon lenses. The Rockwell site goes into the "legend" behind particular Nikon lenses, and is a good place to spend a couple hours building up GAS. I have the 105/2.5 in AI. It's a sharp lense, and very well made.
:)
Keep in mind Rockwell is referring to the SLR lens ... and there is a bivy of them on the bay
Rockwell likes the 105mm 1.8 better (because it's faster and basically same optics) ... but I don't believe the 105mm 1.8 was ever made for the rangefinder
Keep in mind Rockwell is referring to the SLR lens ... and there is a bivy of them on the bay
Rockwell likes the 105mm 1.8 better (because it's faster and basically same optics) ... but I don't believe the 105mm 1.8 was ever made for the rangefinder
Yes, I'm referring to SLR lenses here (blasphemy, I know), but so is the Mir link. And yes Rockwell likes the 1.8 better.
:)
wlewisiii
07-23-2006, 21:21
I tried following the link to Mr. Rockwell's site. I've been there before & there is lots of goodies to be found there. The problem I have is that as an old Canonista, I have no grounding in Nikon lore to make heads or tails out of much of what he has to say on these lenses.
The Mir website has some of the absolute best information on the web about a big chunk of the later Canon FD cameras & almost all of the FL&FD lenses. Is the Nikon information comparable? If so, I'll spend some serious time reading there, but if not, is there someplace like that for someone who'd like to know more about Nikon? I've been pondering eventually getting an F or F2 just so I can experience for real what they are actually like. I really like my Canon FTb-N, but it is always good to expand one's knowledge base.
Thanks!
William
IGMeanwell
07-23-2006, 21:36
The Mir site ... I'll link the page again HERE (http://www.mir.com.my/rb/photography/companies/nikon/nikkoresources/6070nikkor/telephoto/105mm.htm)
Seems to have great information on the 10.5cm 2.5 P lens that hamster is enquiring about and also a little bit on the 10.5cm f4
The F mount version is easily attainable around 100 bucks on the bay
Always a good resource for Nikon equipment is the Nikionians forum (http://www.nikonians.org/cgi-bin/dcforum/dcboard.cgi) ... especially for film cameras (not neccesarily the rangefinders), there is alot of older folk with some excellent information
Harry Lime
07-23-2006, 23:20
I think there are several versions of this lens. One is a 4/105 for the Nikon RF.
I believe this was followed by the RF 2.5/105, which is a Sonnar design.
This lens was carried over to the Nikon F SLR.
The second SLR version was reformulated as a Gaussian design, for improved performance wide open and closeup. It has just enough aberations to produce sharp, but pleasant portraits. This is the version that all of the fuss is about.
I actually bought a Niklon body, so I could use a single coated Nikkor-P 2.5/105 for portrait work. It's right up there with the original formula Nikkor-H(C) 1.8/85mm, which was a staple of fashion photographers through the 1960's.
Are there sharper lenses out there? Sure, but the classic 2nd version of the 105 is something special.
Those links refer to the SLR version of the lens.
Nippon Kogaku introduced the 10.5cmf/2.5 Nikkor-P in 1953. It was available in Nikon-S mount, Contax RF mount and Leica screwmount. It's considered one of the finest telephotos of any era. It uses 5 elements in a sonnar-based formula. It is a heavy lens (18.5 ounces / 525g). It was extremely popular -- more than 20,000 lenses were sold in various rangefinder mounts, and the lens established the 105mm length as a Nikon "specialty" compared to the 85/90mm length used on Leica and Contax cameras. Because of the weight, in 1959, Nikon introduced a very light 105/f4 Nikkor-T lens using three elements and weighing 9 ounces/250 grams and costing half the price. However, the Nikkor-T lens wasn't as sharp. The f/4 Nikkor-T is fairly rare and so commands a high price as a collectible curiosity. The f/2.5 Nikkor-P is less rare and so not as expensive.
Prices for a rangefinder version of the Nikkor-P f/2.5 lens range roughly from $250 to $500, depending on mount and condition. Leica users have rediscovered this lens, so it usually costs a little more in Leica screw mount.
When Nikon introduced its SLR F camera in 1959, the 105mm lens was released in F mount. The early F-mount version of the lens is identical to the rangefinder version. The formula was evenually changed in the mid-1970s -- most photographers used it as a portrait lens, and the redesign slightly (emphasize SLIGHTLY) improved its up-close performance. This was an extemely popular lens in the SLR world. The early version can be purchased for $100 or usually a lot less. The later version (with a larger rear element) for $150 or less. For Nikon users, this was usually their first and favorite telephoto, usable both for portraits and street scenes; a good combination of speed and weight (especially in the F mount) so that it can be carried all day, whereas the faster f/1.8 is much larger and heavier.
Don't forget about the E series variant the 2.8 / 105
I picked one off the auction site in mint condition for a reasonable amount. From my experience it's pretty good optically.
An example: http://static.flickr.com/50/133168889_dec66adc65_o.jpg
So are Contax mount version of this lens a collector's item or are they still affordable to users?
Nikon History (Lenses) Tale Five : Nikkor 105 mm f/2.5 (http://www.nikon.co.jp/main/eng/portfolio/about/history/nikkor/n05_e.htm)
>>So are Contax mount version of this lens a collector's item or are they still affordable to users?<<
From what I've seen watching Ebay, the Contax versions of lenses tend to sell for a little bit less because of slightly lower demand.
I absolutely do not want to start another camera system, but I really like the features of the FM3a and absolutely would love to have a 105 Nikkor.
A nice thing about the 105 is that it's really a one-lens-fits-all telephoto. If you're using an 85/90, it really isn't long enough for some situations. But a 135mm lens is often too long. Sometimes I carry an 85 and 135. Other times, just the 105.
KoNickon
07-24-2006, 04:40
The "correct" version of the lens for the FM3a would be the AIS version, which is slightly smaller than the earlier ones and has a built-in lens hood.
But I agree with anandi that the 100 (not 105)/f2.8 Series E is quite good also.
NIKON KIU
07-24-2006, 12:48
-Do they still make them (in SLR or other mount)?
-Is it expensive? Did any other manufacturer make a clone?
Nikon Stopped making all manual focus lenses except the 85mm PC(shift) lens but B&H and Adorama in New York still have new old stock, price is around $300(I think).
This lens is sooooo sharp that some photogs use soft filters for portraits:D
you don't wanna show all the imperfections on your models face, do you?:)
Kiu
BillBingham2
07-25-2006, 19:51
Hamster,
You can find contax mount versions of the lens, I've seen them about once every two months or so. Never looked at what the final price as I am a M mount and Nikon S2 man myself.
I grew up on the 85/1.8 and still love it. I have an 85/2 LTM Chrome, but it just did not fit well with my 40/1.4, not enough difference. I got a 105/2.5 and fell in love again. I now have three, F (has been AIed), LTM and Nikon S.
Back in the 70's when I got my 85, I did not go with the 105 because I felt it was too slow. Shooting with an SLR then, I was right. Wish I had been smart enough to go RF then.
B2 (;->
To answer the question, you reallly gotta use the Contax version on the Kiev if you want correct focus at anything away from infinity.
Brian's posted some shots with the Nikon ("S mount") version. Very pretty.
wlewisiii
07-25-2006, 20:27
I've definitely decided not to get into yet another mount, which leaves these, doubtless very good Nikon lenses out of the picture. OTOH, the discussion of the value of the focal length reminds me to keep an eye open for the Canon 100's - both the 100/4 & 100/2 for the RF's & the FD 100/2.8 SSC lens. Might well prove to be a good investment.
My wallet is, faintly crying out, "gee, thanks... :( " but that's how the GAS crumbles... :D
William
BillBingham2
07-26-2006, 18:36
William,
Do not worry, the 105/2.5 is available in LTM also!!! They are on da'bay often in a wide range of prices. I use mine on my T and my M6 and love it (with an adapter of course!!!)
B2 (;->
wlewisiii
07-26-2006, 18:40
I did not need to know that ... really ... :angel:
;)
William
I posted last week some results with a LTM Nikkor 105mm/2.5 lens. The results were very nice indeed [to my eyes]. I have an SLR Nikkor 105mm/2.5 that I never sold. The lens is simply too good to be sold off.
Raid
look at what I just won
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=ADME:B:EOIBSAA:US:11&Item=330009723393
http://www.pbase.com/taffer/image/63586598/medium.jpg
She liked the 105/2.5 very much as well :)
Oscar
back alley
07-27-2006, 05:14
look at what I just won
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=ADME:B:EOIBSAA:US:11&Item=330009723393
you didn't win that - you stole that!
congrats.
Yeah, it was a good price. Now I can shop for a Nikon s2 when I start looking for a Nikon and save money for not having to get an s3 too.
Make sure your S2 comes with a 50/1.4. It's almost always cheaper to get the lens as part of the camera than separately.
My 85 is coming from Portugal, I hope I don't have too much of a wait.
Vince, yes, when I shop I will look for the camera and lens kit. I have find a 105 along the way and be happy with a two lens Nikon kit.
You can always put a Kiev-mount Jupiter-12 on a Nikon if you ever need a 35mm lens.
That is a very good idea actually, and not too expensive at all.
So, I read over at Nelson, your post or Brians, the full S2 finder more or less approximates 35mm so an external finder may not be necessary?
I second the J-12. I have one on my SP right now. Is that sacrilege?
I second the J-12. I have one on my SP right now. Is that sacrilege?
It's fine. Your J-12 will get over that :)
look at what I just won
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=ADME:B:EOIBSAA:US:11&Item=330009723393
Just what I am looking for!
Congratulations.
Raid
Wow, I love the renewed interest in Nikon optics. I've said it before but the 105 is spectacular to my eyes. I also have the Nikkor 50 and 35.
Rover, Don't forget about the CV options in Nikon S-Mount. They are quite nice with a more modern, contrasty look than the old Nikkors.
NIKON KIU
07-27-2006, 07:23
I second the J-12. I have one on my SP right now. Is that sacrilege?
:bang: :bang: :bang: :bang: :bang:
Kiu:D
The Jupiter 12 works great on a Leica IIIf RD as well. See my avatar.
Jim N.
Do be careful. Some J-12s can scratch the frontplate of a Nikon (probably a Kiev, too).
I got a lovely J-12 from Brian S. and use it pretty frequently on my SP. The J-12 is so light you can carry it all day.
NIKON KIU
07-27-2006, 08:49
Kiu, how is your J-12 doing (if you got it) ? :)
Not yet. Its mounted on a beater S2, I am waiting for the mailman.
Kiu
BillBingham2
07-29-2006, 12:10
I have a J-12 on order for my S2, it might be a deep part of my mind trying to get a fuller set to justify a SP or S3.....GAS pains...
B2 (;->
Gabriel M.A.
07-29-2006, 12:51
I've seen sbug's shots with the original Nikkor 10.5cm f/2.5 and it's spectacular. Before I had seen many shots taken with that lens, I missed a super opportunity to buy from Brian Sweeney in LTM when he offered it (somebody grabbed it before I could).
I've seen the 105 first-hand, and I don't know if I could haul that around, though. The chrome Canon Serenar 8.5cm f/2 is hefty enough as it is, and the weight is distributed differently, but my Contax-mount CZJ Sonnar 8.5 f/2 is so friggin' light, it's a delight to use. I'm waiting for that Contax-to-Leica adapter... sure beats the $2000+ to buy the new 85mm f/2 ZM Sonnar; the "sharpness" I'm sure is probably a $1900 difference.
Anyway, that lens has a well-deserved reputation.
The SLR versions, as has been pointed out, are recomputed and are not in the Sonnar mold, but more like, if I recall correctly, Xenotar types. I read about it about a month or so ago, so my memory on this is already past its shelf life ;)
James Brannan
07-29-2006, 14:52
Since we are talking SLR lens in this thread already, the best site for info from an actual user bar none is this one (IMO)...
http://www.naturfotograf.com/
Someone mentioned the KR site. I would be wary of it. He routinely reviews gear he has not actually handled or handled shortly at a trade show. This is not my opinion but the words of KR himself. Bjorn Rorslett will only speak of that which he has used.
I don't get the 105mm focal length myself. I've always preferred either a little shorter (85mm) or a little longer (135mm). That's just my opinion though. You'll never know for sure until you try one yourself.
As my eyes are getting weaker, I am enjoying easier focusing with a lens like the 105mm/2.5.
BillBingham2
07-29-2006, 16:51
The 105/2.5 was only ever made in black and chrome so the weight is wonderfully light when compared to my 85/2 Chrome. I do not have both with me right now to make sure, but the 105 is ballanced very well.
LTM, Nikon S, the both feel great.
B2 (;->
I use the 105/2.5 AI-S on my dSLR with very good results, although ~150mm equiv is a bit long for my liking.
http://static.flickr.com/32/46331532_67eebb07a2.jpg
Someone mentioned the KR site. I would be wary of it. He routinely reviews gear he has not actually handled or handled shortly at a trade show. This is not my opinion but the words of KR himself. Bjorn Rorslett will only speak of that which he has used.
My opinion is KR is full of you-know-what. Big ego/ Mr. know-it-all attitude. I don't believe anything he has to say.
Rockwell likes the 105mm 1.8 better (because it's faster and basically same optics) ...
The 1.8 is the only lens I really miss from my old Nikon days. Somehow it seems to be overseen by most in favour of the 1.4/85mm. I liked the 1.8/105mm a lot. Works also great with Nikon 62mm close-up lenses. Used it on F2AS.
Roland: Great combination. Do you use an external finder with the M6?
Damn that's pretty, Roland. Can't wait to see it and your test shots versus the 85. And I like that sexy red soft shutter release, too!
-Randy
I hesitated too long with this 105 lens from Kiu. Oh well. This is life.
Raid
Roland: From this view, the lens hood looks enormous.
Raid
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