Nikkor 50mm f1.4 (L)

Item No. 023098

Rarity: ★★★

※About rarity
Made by Nippon Kogaku. This is a rangefinder-coupled standard lens for the Leica L mount. It was introduced in October 1950, following the release of its predecessor, the Nikkor-S.C 50mm f1.5, the previous year. While it retains the 3-group 7-element Sonnar-type design, this f1.4 lens represents an evolution with its own improvements, as opposed to being a direct copy of the Zeiss Sonnar f1.5. The distance scale on the helicoid is marked in feet. It is rangefinder-coupled up to 1 meter, beyond which it becomes non-coupled, although it can still focus up to 50cm. This particular lens bears the serial number with the discard number 5005, indicating it as an early model. The serial number was assigned based on the design drawing dated May 1950, resulting in the number "5005," indicating the year and month of production. About 2,000 units of this specific discard number 5005 were manufactured, available in both Nikon S mount and Leica screw mount versions. Included with the lens are a Kenko UV filter for the Nikkor 1.4 and genuine black-painted front and rear caps. Near the serial number on the nameplate, there are slight marks from previous adjustments around the filter ring, but there are no issues with attaching the included Kenko UV filter. Additionally, there are minor signs of use, but overall, it is in good condition and suitable for regular use without any hesitation. Fully serviced in March 2024, the aperture and helicoid operate smoothly with a satisfying feel, and the rangefinder coupling works perfectly. While there is some slight yellowing and very faint wiping marks on the glass due to aging, there is no haze, making it clean glass for this lens. Practical shooting tests yielded very satisfactory results. Examples have been showcased in the gallery, all shot wide open. The images display a soft, gentle, and delicate rendering that leaves a lasting impression. Focusing was done using the rangefinder within the coupled range, while shooting at distances of less than 1 meter was done using live view. There is also an enjoyable world to explore in the close focusing range.
Mount:
Leica L
Accessories:
Kenko UV filter, caps.
Condition:
91% C
Maintenance:
Fully serviced
Warranty:
6 months warranty

Add to wish list

wish list Added

Rarity

Current model or easy to find.
★★ Can be found with some efforts.
★★★ Not easy to find. Once 1~2 months.
★★★★ Rare item. Once a year(it depends on shops).
★★★★★ Super Rare. Once 5~10 years or more (it depends on shops).