Nikon F3 Reliability in 2026

[Sebastian_F]

I'm considering buying a Nikon F3 kit in my area, but I'm wondering about this cameras reliability considering they have an electronic shutter.
I'll obviously test the camera in person before buying but I'm wondering how well the electronics are holding up these days? I have a friend who has had one die on him (after heavy use) but I'd like to know if this is something that other F3 owners worry about?
Also, say something does go wrong with the electronics, is that something that is serviceable?
Thanks!

 

[BrianShaw]

The electronic shutter is the last thing I'd be worried about. That was a concern (proven to be unfounded) in 1980...

As a testimonial, my F3 has been in continuous service since 1981 and has been 100% reliable. There seem to be pelnty out there that are not "heavily used". Just don't go bottom feeding...

 

[thomasossi]

Ive got an F3 and it may be my favorite film SLR. I really like having aperture priority and it just feels so good in the hand. There are still people who CLA these cameras, and do repairs on the electronics, you aren't buying something obscure that if it breaks will become a shelf queen, these things are proven workhorses built to stand up to some abuse. If you check it out and like it, don't be concerned about reliability, few 35mm cameras are as rugged and robust as the F series!

 

[Sebastian_F]

Ive got an F3 and it may be my favorite film SLR. I really like having aperture priority and it just feels so good in the hand. There are still people who CLA these cameras, and do repairs on the electronics, you aren't buying something obscure that if it breaks will become a shelf queen, these things are proven workhorses built to stand up to some abuse. If you check it out and like it, don't be concerned about reliability, few 35mm cameras are as rugged and robust as the F series!

That's great to hear, thanks!

 

[mrbiglens]

I bought mine in 1981- about a year after introduction. I also have its predecessor the F2. Both are in fine working condition in 2026. Replaced the seals and that is about it. Not many things in life survive 45 years and still work as designed without a great overhaul. Like all mechanical things, they do better with periodic operation.

 

[qqphot]

I think if you're looking for a camera that can be serviced, you have to choose one on that basis alone, because it's one of the most difficult criteria. You need to pick one that doesn't have a cult following but is common enough that there's someone competent who specializes in it. Nikon is hard because, like Leica, the people who specialize in them are insanely overbooked with work so that getting yours in the queue can be like a lottery.

 

[Paul Howell]

I traded in my F2 for a F3P in the early 80s, many of my colleagues kept their F2 over fears that the electronic shutter would fail in the middle of an assignment. The F3P had the same shutter as the standard F3 and F3HP, I used mine for 5 years, day after day then as freelancer weekly until 2001 when it ripped off in check luggage at LAX. Although the Pentax LX seems to have issues both the F3 and Canon New F1 seem to be holding up. Not to say that you can buy it on Monday have it go south on a Tuesday, there is always the element of chance. Other option, Nikon F4, best manual focus Pro level camera Nikon ever made. Built in motor drive, geat focus confirmation with most MF lens, matrix metering, higher flash synx and faster top shutter speed, and the option for AF lens. Other than some LED bleed, rugged, weather sealed.