Nikkor-S 50mm f1.4. This is a later model with a black barrel. It is a standard lens for the rangefinder Nikon, with a serial number in the 400,000 range. Compared to earlier white-barreled lenses, it uses more aluminum, making it lighter. Additionally, the S.C marking was updated to omit the C (coated) designation. The filter diameter is 43mm.
In recent years, a wide range of mount adapters for Leica and mirrorless cameras has become available, expanding its usability. The lens provides quite a soft rendering at full aperture and around f2, but it transforms into a sharp performer when stopped down to f4. It is a high-production lens that is both affordable and enjoyable to use. This particular example has clean glass and is in excellent working condition.
The black-painted areas show some paint loss. While there is slight overall signs of use, the lens still maintains a clean and presentable appearance.
In 2024, the aperture ring was adjusted, and it has a nice, distinct click feel. The distance ring operates smoothly.
There is one very thin hairline scratch on the front element, visible only under strong LED light. There are no other cleaning marks or haze, and the glass remains clear and bright. The aperture blades show no signs of oil, and the lens functions well.
The lens performs well in practical tests. Please check it out at our test shooting gallery.
