The W-Nikkor 25mm f4, a wide-angle lens manufactured by Nikon, is the later version designed for the Nikon S series. Released in 1953, it followed the Contax Topogon 25mm f4, and at the time of its release, it boasted the widest angle of view for 35mm cameras in the world.
The lens design is of the Topogon type, consisting of four groups with four elements, using meniscus lenses arranged symmetrically. The lens exhibits no distortion, and at its widest aperture, it produces a sharp image with a soft quality. Compared to the Topogon, it offers a notably sharper depiction.
This Nikkor 25mm f4 is unique among the Nikon S-mount lenses as it is the only lens where focusing is done solely through the helicoid of the lens body itself.
The later version, with its black paint finish, is significantly lighter than the earlier version, which is a welcome improvement. The lens weighs only 73g, approximately half the weight of the earlier model.
When mounted on various Nikon S models, especially on black-painted bodies with a finder and hood, it looks stunning and is a pleasure to admire.
The total production of the Nikon S-mount models, including both early and late versions, is said to be around 300 units. It's a rare find, and original caps and hoods are particularly scarce.
The lens shows light wear at the front edge due to the attachment and removal of the cap and hood. The nameplate, along with the black paint on the distance and aperture markings on the interior, remains in excellent condition, with the white lettering clearly visible. Overall, the lens maintains a clean appearance, and the semi-gloss black finish retains its beautiful texture.
A full overhaul was performed in February 2025, resulting in smooth and responsive operation.
There are a few very minor cleaning marks on the front element of the lens, but they will likely not affect image quality. Given the small glass size, which often leads to scratches on Nikkor 25mm lenses, this particular unit has remarkably clean glass.
The finder has slight wear on the chrome-plated top edge, with a faint appearance of brass underneath. However, the rest, including the glass, is in good condition, and the view is clear and sharp.
A rare, two-part dedicated hood that can accommodate Series 7 filters is included. Additionally, the set comes with a case to store both the hood and finder, along with a Japanese Optical Company warranty card, depth of field chart, and user manual in English. This is a perfect set for collectors.
