Nikkor-S.C 8.5cm f1.5, a large-aperture medium telephoto lens, was introduced in 1951. It features a Leica screw mount and was manufactured by Nippon Kogaku. The lens has a black-painted and chrome-plated finish, a 3-group, 7-element optical design, and distance markings in feet. It uses a 58mm screw-in filter. Please note that the L-mount version of the Nikkor 85mm f/1.5 has a different filter diameter and hood attachment method compared to the Nikon and Contax mount versions. For reference, the filter diameter for the Nikon S and Contax mounts is 60mm.
It is said that approximately 2,000 units of the Nikkor-S.C 85mm f1.5 were produced across the three mount types. Nikon, Leica, and Contax. Due to its large-aperture telephoto design, the lens contains a substantial amount of glass, resulting in a measured weight of 547g. This particular unit, for an unknown reason, lacks the usual tripod mount, making it about 40g lighter than standard versions. Upon inspection during servicing, no traces of a tripod mount support plate were found inside, suggesting that it was manufactured this way from the start.
When used at maximum aperture, the lens delivers soft and gentle rendering with beautiful bokeh. Its resolving power is also outstanding. Even when stopped down, the image remains sharp without becoming overly harsh, allowing for an enjoyable shooting experience. The rendering quality is distinct from that of modern Nikon lenses, which tend to produce sharper images.
There are minor paint losses due to use, but the overall appearance is relatively good.
The lens underwent a full overhaul in March 2025. The aperture and helicoid have been adjusted to provide a smooth operation with an appropriate amount of torque. The rangefinder coupling works perfectly.
The front element has some extremely minor cleaning marks, but all lens surfaces are clear and free from haze.
The lens performs excellently. Sample images have been uploaded to the test gallery—please feel free to take a look.
A Kenko protective filter and replica front and rear caps are included.
