Overview
Nikkor lenses earned a reputation of being fantastic lenses for a reason - lenses like this are simply amazing. The image quality is basically perfect straight from wide open. Unfortunately that quality and mystique end up commanding high prices. I got lucky and managed to get my copy for a steal so it is possible but it'll take some luck to get a good price on one.
Specifications
Mount: F Mount
Focal Length: 135mm
Aperture Range: f/2.8 - f/32
Minimum Focus: 1.3m
Weight: 430g
Filter Thread: 52mm
Data Source: Lens-DB - Roland's Nikon Pages
Collection Information
Date Acquired: 06/09/2019
Serial Number: 739724
Purchase Price: $45
Going Price: ~$200
Condition: Minor scuffs but otherwise perfect
Lens Review
I'm about to say something a little controversial - I'm not a fan of classic Nikon lens mechanics. It doesn't matter if the lens is Non-AI, AI, or AI-s I think they're a bit ugly. Opinions aside the focus ring is nice and smooth and the aperture ring is one of the nicest I've used. The integrated lens hood is appreciated and the full metal build will last a lifetime or two. I have no doubts that 40 years form now this lens will still be a fantastic working photographic tool.
How can I put this... the lens is optical perfection. It is tack sharp across the entire frame wide open even on super high resolution digital sensors. That's no small feat especially given this its age. Vignetting is present at f/2.8 but disappears after just one stop. Flare is very well controlled. Bokeh is exceptionally smooth with beautiful huge bokeh balls from point light sources. I couldn't find anything to fault this lens on when it comes to performance.
My opinion of classic Nikkors visually may be low but in the hand they are some of the most ergonomic lenses in use. The focus ring just naturally falls in your hand making the lens pure joy in use.
Photo Tests
Resolution/Vignetting f/2.8
Resolution/Vignetting f/4
Resolution/Vignetting f/5.6
Resolution/Vignetting f/8
Flare Torture Test
Bokeh f/2.8
Bokeh f/5.6
Bokeh f/11
Should I get one for photography?
Assuming you find it for a good price you should absolutely get one. The lens performance is absolutely tremendous and in use it's extremely natural. Unfortunately Nikkor's tend to command high prices so finding one for cheap will be a challenge and I don't think the more common $200 price is worth it when a Minolta Celtic 135mm f/2.8 or Konica Hexar 135mm f/3.5 are almost as good for 1/10th the price.
Should I get one for a collection?
Classic Nikon lenses hold their value incredibly well making them solid choice for collection. Unfortunately this means that prices tend to stay high but that's the cost of a lens that has value in a collection.
