Nippon Kogaku W-Nikkor.C 2.8cm F3.5 [S mount]

Nippon Kogaku W-Nikkor.C 2.8cm f/3.5 (S Mount)

• Lens Type: Wide-angle Prime Lens
• Focal Length: 28mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/3.5
• Minimum Aperture: f/22
• Lens Mount: Nikon S Mount (Nikon Rangefinder)
• Format Coverage: 35mm Full Frame
• Minimum Focus Distance: 0.9 m
• Optical Construction: 6 elements in 4 groups
• Diaphragm Blades: 9
• Filter Size: Series VIII (Slip-on Filter System)
• Focus Type: Manual Focus
• Weight: Approx. 270 g
• Dimensions: Approx. Ø60 × 44 mm

Description

The Nippon Kogaku W-Nikkor.C 2.8cm f/3.5 is a classic wide-angle lens designed for Nikon S-mount rangefinder cameras. Introduced during the early years of the Nikon rangefinder system, it was among the company's first ultra-wide lenses for 35mm photography and played an important role in establishing Nippon Kogaku's reputation for precision optics in the post-war era.

Featuring a 28mm focal length, the lens is well suited to landscape, architecture, documentary, and street photography. Its symmetrical optical design produces good sharpness, natural color rendition, and well-controlled distortion for a lens of its generation. The moderate maximum aperture keeps the lens compact while maintaining consistent optical performance across the frame when stopped down.

Constructed entirely from metal, the W-Nikkor.C reflects the high manufacturing standards of early Nikon rangefinder lenses. The manual focusing mechanism is smooth and precise, providing an excellent tactile experience for photographers who appreciate traditional mechanical lenses. Its compact size also complements the portability of Nikon S-series rangefinder cameras.

Today, the W-Nikkor.C 2.8cm f/3.5 is valued by collectors and photographers interested in classic rangefinder equipment. It remains a historically significant lens that combines solid mechanical craftsmanship with dependable optical performance, making it an appealing choice for vintage camera enthusiasts and users of adapted Nikon S-mount systems.