Nikkor 50mm f1.2 AIS, new ones have different coating?

Acticus · Jun 30, 2020

I was considering purchasing this lens, and I got to thinking......TheNikkor 50mm f1.2 AIS was first made in the early 80's, Nikon still makes this lens though. It's one thing to grind a piece of glass like you used to do 40 years ago, but I can't see Nikon laying down the coating the same way, or even using the same coating.

Does it make sense then to think that the coatings on the new lenses are new and improved?

Thoughts?

NB23 · Jun 30, 2020

The color would be different, for a start.

Acticus · Jul 3, 2020

NB23 said:
The color would be different, for a start.

I just checked a new production lens with one from the 1980's. Coating is definitely different, as judged by the color of reflections in the lens.

darkosaric · Jul 3, 2020

I know that in Nikkor 105mm f.25 (newer version) Nikon made different coating in Ai against AiS version (I had both of those lenses). But in actual picture quality I did not see any difference, so I have sold one.

Acticus · Jul 3, 2020

Yes. it's probably a pretty subtle difference in most situations. I imagine the benefit would be more likely seen in a very fast lens like the 50 f1.2 though.

darkosaric · Jul 3, 2020

Personally I have problem to get focus right in portraits in 50mm f1.4, even in slow moving people, only when they are still - then it goes. For f1.2 it will be even bigger challenge. On which camera do you plan to use it? Best is to have some with exchangeable screens, so that you can get specific screen that fins your need.

Acticus · Jul 3, 2020

darkosaric said:
Personally I have problem to get focus right in portraits in 50mm f1.4, even in slow moving people, only when they are still - then it goes. For f1.2 it will be even bigger challenge. On which camera do you plan to use it? Best is to have some with exchangeable screens, so that you can get specific screen that fins your need.

Will use it on an FM3a, which has the K3 screen. I've tried the combo, and I can focus pretty well. The new version of the lens is actually a bit easier to focus, because the helicoid is so well lubed, the focus ring is quick and smooth. Focus seems to "snap" better on the matte section. I can focus on the matte section more easily than with the older copy, which is a pretty smooth focuser by itself, but slower in comparison to the new lens.

Nikkor 50mm f1.2 AIS, new ones have different coating?

Acticus

NB23

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darkosaric

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darkosaric

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