The Nikkor-S.C 8.5cm f1.5, a large-aperture medium telephoto lens, was introduced in 1951. It is a Leica screw mount lens, made by Nippon Kogaku. The lens comes in both black paint and chrome-plated finishes, and it has a 3-group, 7-element design with feet scale markings.
It takes a 58mm screw-in filter. Please note that the L-mount version of the Nikkor 85mm f1.5 has a different filter thread and hood attachment method compared to the Nikon or Contax mounts. For reference, the filter size for Nikon S and Contax mounts is 60mm.
Approximately 2,000 units of this lens were produced across the Nikon, Leica, and Contax mounts. Due to its large aperture and telephoto design, the lens is heavy, weighing 588g (measured).
At full aperture, the lens produces soft, gentle rendering with beautiful bokeh. Its resolving power is excellent. Even when stopped down, it maintains sharpness without becoming overly harsh, offering sharp images. The rendering is distinct from the sharp characteristics of modern Nikon lenses, allowing for a unique shooting experience.
Previously sold by our shop. Carefully used by the previous owner, it has now returned to us once again. Welcome back for the second time!
Aside from a very small paint loss at the front edge of the barrel, the lens remains in beautiful cosmetic condition, unchanged from when it was last sold.
Fully overhauled in 2023, including focus adjustment. Thanks to the careful servicing at that time, the aperture and helicoid still retain a smooth, well-damped feel. Rangefinder coupling accuracy remains excellent, even at full aperture.
The glass shows minor white, dot-like separation along the edge near the rear element, but this has no effect on actual image results. There are no noticeable cleaning marks or haze, and the optics remain clear.
Sample images taken at the time of the previous sale are available in our photo gallery. Please take a look.
Includes a rare L-mount dedicated hood similar to that for the Summarex 85mm, along with a hood cap, rear cap, and case. A fine piece suitable for collection as well.
