Nikkor-S 50mm f1.4, later version, for Nikon S mount, with a black barrel. Serial number in the 400,000 range.
Its roots can be traced back to the Zeiss Sonnar 50mm f1.5 for Contax. It features 7 elements in 3 groups. This black-barrel version was made lighter than the earlier 50mm f1.4, weighing just 143g on our scale. The lens name was also simplified from Nikkor-S.C, with the red C omitted, to the simple white-lettered Nikkor-S. The filter size is 43mm.
Many photographers also enjoy using this lens on Leica and mirrorless cameras via adapters. Around wide open, it produces a soft, delicate rendering, while stopping down by around three stops brings a noticeably sharper character.
A classic vintage lens that can be enjoyed at a reasonable price.
There are no visible signs of use, and the lens is in excellent cosmetic condition. Both the paint and plating remain crisp and clean, reflecting Nikon’s high manufacturing quality.
A full overhaul was completed in August 2026. The aperture operates smoothly.
The glass is exceptionally clear and bright, with no cleaning marks or haze. As is often the case with Nikkor 50mm f1.4 lenses, there is a very slight amount of balsam separation along the edge of the rear element, but it should have virtually no effect on actual photography. Although this is a commonly seen lens, examples with glass this clean are quite rare.
Original Nikon front and rear caps and a Kenko SL filter are included.
