Leica Nikkor 5cm F3.5 in Collapsible Leica Thread Mount

[Brian]

I get some interesting lenses to work on. This is a Nikkor 5cm F3.5 in a collapsible Leica mount that features the old-style F18 DOF scale. The lens uses the newer style F-Stops. Rather than a "QC" marking, meaning 4 elements-coated, this lens has a Red Dot. The last three digits of the SN are engraved on the internal fixture. The lens had a lot of internal haze, is coated. No tool marks were on the lens before I got to it, everything in TIGHT. It's much better now, it is constructed similar to a Canon 50/3.5 collapsible. This lens is most likely a prototype.

 

[Brian]

A quick test. I checked the lens, boxed it up QUICKLY to send back to the lucky owner. That's the down-side of my hobby. Get attached to a lens, have to send it back.

At f3.5

 

[Brian]

One at F5.6.

Performance, as expected, is similar to a Post-War Elmar. This lens is most likely one of the first few hundred lenses made in Japan after the war.

 

[M. Valdemar]

I've just seen one of these. Currently negotiating for it, same serial number block.