Early Nikon F with FTN prism?

weebz · Oct 14, 2012

So I recently got an early nikon F, 641xxx, and I purchased a a metered FTN prism off ebay because the prism that was on it is cracked. I just got it and it wont fit. I did a little reading and what I found is this prism isn't supposed to fit the early Fs. I was wondering if there was a way to make it fit, or if I just need to get a different prism?

CGW · Oct 14, 2012

Remove the nameplate?

John Koehrer · Oct 14, 2012

When you set the prism in place, you'll notice there are raised sections on each side and beneath the eyepiece. The newer cameras don't have them. I assume they're some sort of light trap/baffle to prevent light from creeping in from under the prism.

Bob-D659 · Oct 15, 2012

The raised bits on either side of the eyepiece slot have to be removed, so they are flush with the top of the body.

Jim Jones · Oct 15, 2012

Those areas that interfere with seating the FTN meter can be filed down. This should be done carefully to prevent filings from getting into the camera.

E. von Hoegh · Oct 15, 2012

Filing the camera...that doesn't sound at all like it will end badly.

C&P from the Mir site - " The additional finder release lever activates a pair of claws which cinch the meter on to the body via the "Nikon" bodyplate. Older F's (serial numbers before 6900000) may need some filing to get the nameplate to accept the FTn properly."

This page - :http://www.mir.com.my/rb/photograph...aeliu/cameras/nikonf/ffinders/fmeterprism.htm

The nameplate is held on by two screws. Remove the nameplate and round off the bottom corners with a #5 or #6 file, reinstall.

Bob-D659 · Oct 15, 2012

That same page on the MIR site mentions the modification to the top deck of the camera, under one of the older meter heads.

Early Nikon F with FTN prism?

weebz

CGW

John Koehrer

Bob-D659

Jim Jones

E. von Hoegh

Bob-D659

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