Nikon 24mm lenses

Been quite happy with my 24/2 AI, which didn't cost much more than a similar condition 24/2.8 AI when I bought it last summer. Difference was about $40 or so. Unlike the 2.8, it's also happy on my off-topic Nikon, which I cannot say the same about any of the 24/2.8 versions I've owned (N, NC, K, AI, AIS, AF).

With respect to the optical formulations, the big change was when Nikon went from the K-type pre-AI to the AI lens. Went from a 9/7 formula to a 9/9 formula. Everything from the AI version through the current AF-D version has the 9/9 element formula. So, I guess they'd all be considered "Nikkor-N" lenses, due to the nine elements. Great performers on most cameras (the D2x and D200 excepted).

-J

Decades ago, I traded my widest wide-angle, a 20mm f/3.5 Nikkor that used 72mm filters, for a wider 18mm f/3.5 Nikkor that used 72mm filters and a faster 24mm f/2 AIS Nikkor that used 52mm filters.

Since the 24mm f/2 had a reputation for less than desirable image quality, I did not expect much. I was, however, pleasantly surprised that its image quality was much better than I expected.