Nikkor P.C 85mm f2. A masterpiece that showcased the excellence of Japanese lenses to the world. The serial number is 4002xx. This lens features the C engraving on the barrel and is a somewhat rare rangefinder Contax mount version with an external bayonet. The stopper section includes the EP mark.
This example is an early model with a white barrel, released in 1948. The distance scale is in feet. It is a classic Sonnar-type lens with a 3-group, 5-element design, and a 10-blade circular aperture. The lens barrel is made of solid brass and is substantial with a large amount of glass, reflecting meticulous craftsmanship.
The lens exhibits slightly soft rendering at maximum aperture but delivers high contrast. It allows for dramatic photography by taking advantage of the peripheral light falloff. Stopping down to f4 or f5.6 results in even peripheral illumination and provides the sharpest image quality with beautiful bokeh.
This lens comes complete with a hood, viewfinder, front and rear caps, and a leather case. It is in excellent condition both aesthetically and optically. The viewfinder's shoe base is marked with C mark for Contax and the EP mark, and both the viewfinder and lens leather cases also bear the EP mark, demonstrating a perfect match. An excellent addition to any collection!
The lens shows only very faint signs of wear, but it is in exceptionally beautiful condition, almost like new from the factory. The caps and hood are also in excellent condition. The viewfinder, both in appearance and glass, is clean and matches the lens well.
It underwent a full overhaul in July 2024. Thanks to meticulous servicing, it has been restored to a condition that belies its 70 years of age. The aperture and helicoid operate very smoothly, and while there are minor signs of coating wear on the glass, there are no noticeable cleaning marks or fogging. The lens is in superb condition and delivers excellent image quality.
Sample images have been posted on the testing site. I hope you will take a look. All photos were taken wide open, showcasing excellent color rendition and high contrast. The quality of the images is truly impressive.
A complete set of Hachigo Nikkor lenses in this condition is quite rare. This is a remarkable example!
