A commemorative model that marks the starting point of Nippon Kogaku’s camera history, the Nikon Model I. It is the ancestor that led to the Nikon S, and ultimately to the Nikon F.
The total production of the Nikon Model I is said to be just over 700 completed units excluding prototypes, with actual sales reportedly fewer than 500 units (figures vary depending on the source). Serial number 60922 is considered the first unit, and 609759 the last, with production spanning from March 1948 to August 1949. The serial number of this example is 609524, and it is the very same individual camera featured on page 60 of the May 2007 issue of Shashin Kogyo.
The Nikon Model I was the first mass-produced camera released by Nippon Kogaku for civilian use after the war, and also the first camera to bear the name Nikon. It adopted a unique 24×32mm format known as the Nikon format. Due to requests from photo labs, this format was later revised: the Nikon M and S models used 24×34mm, and from the S2 onward it evolved into the Leica-standard 24×36mm format. The camera features a cloth focal-plane shutter, a 0.6× viewfinder magnification, and distance markings in feet.
This example exhibits mid-to-late production features of the Nikon Model I, including four film guide rails (early versions had two), a fixed spool, triple decorative rings around the eyepiece, and a bottom plate covering the shutter mechanism. The apron is secured with six screws. The bottom plate is stamped MADE IN OCCUPIED JAPAN. The serial numbers on the body and back cover match.
The lens is an early collapsible Nikkor-H.C 5cm f3.5, considered rarer than the f2 version. It is a Tessar-type design with 3 groups and 4 elements. The serial number is 7051879, belonging to the 705 prefix series. This aligns with the serial ranges documented in the work of renowned Nikon collector Robert J. Rotoloni, The Complete Nikon Rangefinder System, for Nikon Model I bodies paired with f3.5 lenses.
A rare and highly collectible piece.
There are minor signs of use such as light scuffs and paint loss throughout, along with a small dent and scratches on the front of the apron near the focusing dial, and some looseness in the leather covering on the back of the body. However, considering that many Nikon Model I cameras are found in heavily worn condition, this example remains in quite good shape. The black paint inside the bottom cover and film chamber is still well preserved.
Approximately two years ago, the camera body and lens were overhauled by the previous owner. All functions operate properly. The viewfinder is clear, and the rangefinder patch shows strong contrast.
The lens shows a few very faint cleaning marks, and under strong LED light, only a very slight haze can be detected. This is extremely minimal and should have no noticeable effect on image quality. The glass remains clear and bright.
Included are a leather case, an early rounded metal lens cap with a charming shape, and a Nikon-branded leather strap that may date from a slightly later period. These are collector’s items in their own right.
Also included as a bonus are the issue of Shashin Kogyo magazine in which this camera appears, and a recently made leather half case.
