Nikkor-N 50mm f1.1. External mount. This ultra-fast lens for the Nikon S series was released in 1956. It features a 6-group, 9-element construction, and accepts 62mm filters. The distance scale is in meters.
Among all photographic Nikkor lenses, including F-mount lenses, this is the one with the largest maximum aperture. It was Nippon Kogaku's answer to the postwar competition in ultra-fast lenses, including the Zunow 50mm f1.1, Fujinon 50mm f1.2, Hexanon 60mm f1.2, and Canon 50mm f1.2.
This example is the external bayonet type—referred to as gaizume (outer claw) in Japan and as external mount overseas. In 1959, Nikon transitioned from the internal bayonet type to this external bayonet design.
Only 835 units were produced in total for both the internal and external bayonet versions. For reference, the Leica L mount version had just 211 units manufactured.
Wide open, it renders with a very soft, dreamy look, but from around f1.3 onward the image stabilizes. It is a lens with strong character.
There are slight scuff marks on the black painted areas, but no noticeable scratches, and the overall appearance remains clean.
Fully overhauled in July 2025. All operations, including the aperture and focusing ring, feel smooth and dampened.
Focus accuracy has been confirmed using a Nikon S body for inspection, and rangefinder coupling is in good working order.
There are a few very faint cleaning marks on the front element, and the edge of the middle element shows some balsam separation—perhaps a common issue with this lens—but it should not affect actual photography. Other than that, the glass is clear with no haze, making this a remarkably clean example for a Nikkor 50mm f1.1.
Please note that when using adapters such as Nikon S to Leica M, the rear lens guard may interfere with the rangefinder cam, preventing accurate focusing. This lens is best enjoyed with Nikon S-series cameras or mirrorless digital systems.
At wide open aperture, the lens exhibits characteristic highlight fringing unique to the Nikkor 50mm f1.1, but stopping down slightly results in a delicate and composed rendering.
Includes the rare original front and rear caps, a 62mm screw-in L38 UV filter, and a case.
