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A non-AI Nikkor Telephoto Lens 300mm f/4.5, 1964-1977 |
In 1964, Nikon brought out the last few lenses to complete its lineup of automatic-diaphragm lenses for the Nikon F. The 300f/4.5 was intended as a replacement for the semi-automatic 350f/4.5, a lens that was originally intended for use on the rangefinders with their reflex housing, but which also saw duty (along with the 180f/2.5, 250f/4, 500f/5, and 1000f/6.3 Reflex) on the Nikon F, albeit with an adapter tube, in the first early years. Sometime during its production run, it was changed from a five element/four group construction to six elements and five groups. According to Nikon Data(1) , this change appears to have occurred around 1975, when the ED version of the lens was introduced. I have conflicting data (3)that says that the 6e/5g version was available as early as 1971, with the introduction of the F2. It was the longest hand-holdable lens that Nikon offered until the introduction of the 400f/5.6 in 1973.
* (The 400mm f5.6 was replaced by 400mm f5.6 Non ED; 400mm f5.6 ED & the IF-ED version (All togther 3 versions); the earlier 400mm needs another focusing unit on the 400mm f4.5 Nikkor-Q Auto during the Nikon F), I have the pix for the funny focuing unit and the BIG fat, oversized 400 f4.5 Q-Auto) 1.1kg for the focusing unit and 3 kg for the 400mm f4.5 Nikkor -Q auto -leofoo-.
Some of the notable
design features on the lens are the inclusion of two tripod bushings (for horizontal
and vertical-format pictures), the sliding lens shade (which provides approximately
45mm of extension), and the original "rabbit-ears" meter coupling prong,
which is solid on all non-AI lenses. The lens is immediately recognizeable as a member
of the "chrome barrel" family of Nikkors, with its scalloped focussing
and aperture control rings. The later non-AI 180f/2.8 seems to be a scaled-down version
of the early lens, as it has similar five element/three group construction.
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|
Note:
1). Scalloped focussing ring, characteristic of most so-called "chrome barrel" Nikkors
2). Built-in sliding lens shade
3). Double tripod sockets (you do have two QR plates, don't you?)
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This lens was immensely popular, and many are available on the used market today very cheaply. It reputedly gives its best performance around f/5.6 and f/8, although wide-open is acceptable, too. At its current pricing, it is an excellent buy. The focussing throw is 140 degrees, so it handles relatively well. |
illustration of the optical groups in later model of the 300mm f4.5 AI version.
Although it might seem heavy in modern times, back in its day, it proved a viable alternative to the larger, more expensive 400f/4.5, which is approximately twice as heavy when on the appropriate focussing mount.
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Recommended links to understand more technical details
related to the Nikkor F-mount and production Serial Number:
http://rick_oleson.tripod.com/index-153.html by: my
friend, Rick Oleson
http://www.zi.ku.dk/personal/lhhansen/photo/fmount.htm by: Hansen,
Lars Holst
http://www.mir.com.my/rb/photography/hardwares/nikonfmount/lens2.htm
http://www.photosynthesis.co.nz/nikon/serialno.html
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