This is a Nikon F3 SLR 35mm camera from the early 1980s. At the time, this was THE reporter camera. It still is an icon of 35mm photography. Full metal body, sturdy. It has seen llittle use. I bought it at a Foto Brell in Frankfurt, a famous store for all things photography. Two scuff marks on the edges is all this camera has.
My model is the popular HP (high eyepoint) version that accomodates those with glasses. Also, this is a viewfinder that shows exactly 100% of what is on the film. Most cameras only achieve approx. 95% of the final image through the viewfinder. The 100% is the hallmark of a professional SLR. As you can see in the pictures, the shutter itself is in great condition. I assume that this camera hasn't been used very often. I bought it and put it away as I worked with my F5 when I was still doing film. Today I mostly do digital (D100) and therefore it is more of a museum piece to me, resting atop my shelf, unloved and yearning for someone who will use and enjoy it.
All you need to operate this camera is a CRC type battery to operate the lightmeter and the shutter speed (costs about $5 and lasts years). The one in the camera was discharged, but this battery is available everywhere. Other than that, the camera's film transport and shutter release is manual via a lever. There is a tiny LCD screen in the viewfinder, something that Nikon added in those days for the first time.
Camera takes super pictures, the shutter is precise and the film transport mechanism works flawlessly.
Viewfinder can be removed to enable worm's eye photography (focusing via the focusing screen). Focusing screen is also removable (different focusing screens are available, the one included is the standard screen with Fresnel focusing aid). Shutter speed ranges from 1/2000 sec. to long time exposure. Bayonet is the typical Nikon size. You can fit all sorts of Nikon lenses on the camera, but of course there will be no autofocus etc.
I want to sell it together with a lens that fits the camera just perfect: manual Nikkor 1:1.2 50mm. This is a standard lens with respect to the focal length. However, what makes it special is its speed: 1 : 1.2 is excellent for low light photography and is pretty close to the ideal speed of 1:1. The lens has absolutely no scratches and looks like new. Focusing ring moves smoothly. Lens cover pieces not depicted but will be included (both ends)
This set (camera and lens) will fly into the hands of a lover of classic cameras for $370 shipped CONUS.
Any questions? Ask away via PM. For more information, cf. this article on wikipedia.
Preferred methods of payment: paypal (non CC-based or CC based and you pay the extra percentage/fee) or personal check drawn from a US bank account. Checks must clear before shipment.
