Nikon S2 with Nippon Kogaku Nikkor-S.C 5cm F1.4

Nikon S2

• Camera Type: 35mm Rangefinder Film Camera
• Film Format: 35mm (135)
• Lens: Nippon Kogaku Nikkor-S.C 5cm f/1.4
• Lens Mount: Nikon S Mount (Nikon Rangefinder Mount)
• Focus Type: Manual Focus (Rangefinder Coupled)
• Viewfinder: Combined Viewfinder/Rangefinder with 1:1 Magnification and Bright Frames (50mm)
• Shutter Type: Mechanical Horizontal-Travel Cloth Focal-Plane Shutter
• Shutter Speed Range: 1 sec – 1/1000 sec, Bulb
• ISO Range: Depends on Film Used
• Exposure Modes: Manual
• Flash Sync Speed: 1/30 sec
• Flash: External Flash via PC Sync Terminal
• Film Advance: Manual Lever Advance
• Weight: Approx. 760 g (Body Only)
• Dimensions: Approx. 136 × 81 × 65 mm

Lens

• Lens Type: Standard Prime Lens
• Focal Length: 50mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/1.4
• Minimum Aperture: f/16
• Lens Mount: Nikon S Mount
• Format Coverage: 35mm Full Frame
• Autofocus: —
• Image Stabilization: —
• Minimum Focus Distance: 0.9 m
• Maximum Magnification: —
• Optical Construction: 7 elements in 3 groups
• Diaphragm Blades: 9
• Filter Size: 43 mm (Series VIII Slip-on)
• Focus Type: Manual Focus
• Weight: Approx. 310 g
• Dimensions: Approx. Ø54 × 47 mm

Description

The Nikon S2 is one of the most celebrated 35mm rangefinder cameras produced by Nippon Kogaku. Introduced in 1954, it represented a major refinement of Nikon's rangefinder system, featuring a larger 1:1 life-size viewfinder, improved film transport, and increased reliability. Its robust mechanical construction and precise operation made it a favorite among professional photojournalists during the golden age of rangefinder photography.

The camera is entirely mechanical, requiring no batteries for operation. Its coupled rangefinder provides accurate manual focusing, while the bright 1:1 viewfinder enables photographers to keep both eyes open during shooting, making it especially effective for street, documentary, and reportage photography. The Nikon S2 is also recognized for its smooth winding mechanism and exceptional build quality, characteristics that continue to be appreciated by collectors and photographers alike.

Mounted on the camera is the Nippon Kogaku Nikkor-S.C 5cm f/1.4, one of Nikon's most important early standard lenses. Its seven-element optical design delivers excellent central sharpness, high micro-contrast, natural color rendition, and smooth, pleasing bokeh at wider apertures. The fast f/1.4 maximum aperture makes it well suited for available-light photography while providing excellent subject separation for portraits and documentary work.

The Nikon S2 paired with the Nikkor-S.C 5cm f/1.4 represents one of the defining combinations of the classic rangefinder era. Combining precision mechanical engineering with outstanding optical performance, this kit remains highly sought after by collectors and photographers who appreciate the craftsmanship, historical significance, and distinctive shooting experience of Nikon's pre-SLR system.