Original S3 or the re-release?

[StepheKoontz]

I'm thinking about adding a Nikon S3 to my rangefinder collection, mainly to use with a 35mm f1.8. This seems like the ideal nikon to use with a 35mm lens. My dilemma is should I get a clean 1950's vintage and have it CLA'd or buy one of the 2000's rerelease? I'm thinking the newer one might have a better finder + most come with the modern MC 50mm f1.4 as well.

 

[Theo Sulphate]

Cameraquest states the re-release may be of even higher quality than the original. However, about only 8000 were made, initially for the Japanese market. So, clearly there's an extra premium just because there are so few.

I'd go for it.

 

[StepheKoontz]

I guess I have to weigh this against my enjoyment knowing I am using a 60 year old piece of history vs a copy of one.

 

[Joe Jesus]

I'm not sure that I'd consider the S3 reissue to be a copy, since they were made by Nikon themselves. I'd be inclined to buy a newer one for freshness and reliability.

 

[__Brian]

The S3-2000 in chrome, with the "Millenium" 50mm F1.4 Nikkor is the one to get. The lens is the best 50mm lens ever made by Nikon. Get the camera in chrome, the price on the used market is not much more than a vintage camera in similar condition. The viewfinder prisms are going to be in better condition than the 60 year old originals. These were ~$4500 when new in 2001 or so. Prices are at a bargain these days. An Olympic Nikkor 50/1.4 would cost more than the S3-2000 with "Millenium" Nikkor.

The Nikon SP-2005 has held a premium, but far fewer were made, and it was only available in Black.

I tend to use the 35mm lens on the S3 and a 50 or 85 on the SP.

I have an S3, and the S3-2000. It's not a copy. It is improved in some subtle ways.

 

[Kodachromeguy]

I've only seen the new reissue S3 once. It was gorgeous. If you can afford it, I recommend that you go for this one. Another benefit is the availability of recent Voigtlander (Cosina?) lenses for this mount.

 

[__Brian]

The prices of S-Mount Nikkor lenses are way down - I've seen the 10.5cm F2.5 Nikkor-P go for $200~$250 or so. This is the Sonnar formula version. The S3-2000 has bright line frames for this focal length.

 

[Huss]

The re release S3 all the way! It’s a better version of the original.

 

[StepheKoontz]

Thanks, I'll start saving my $$$

 

[Pentode]

My original S3 is a great camera; cosmetically pretty beaten up but mechanically in great shape. I'll attest to what the others are saying - as much as I like mine, the rangefinder patch is very dim and there's no fix for it short of finding a donor camera with a prism which hasn't degraded. Very unlikely, to say the least. If you have the option of getting the same camera 40 years newer it's a very good option, indeed.

 

[Huss]

My original S3 is a great camera; cosmetically pretty beaten up but mechanically in great shape. I'll attest to what the others are saying - as much as I like mine, the rangefinder patch is very dim and there's no fix for it short of finding a donor camera with a prism which hasn't degraded. Very unlikely, to say the least. If you have the option of getting the same camera 40 years newer it's a very good option, indeed.

I wonder what's up with your RF patch. I just bought an S2 - older than your S3 - and the RF patch is very bright.

 

[NB23]

Often, it simply needs to be whiped/cleaned, to regain its original contrast.

I Love my S3. Every year I get a sudden rush that lasts about 2 months where I only use my S3 with the fabulous 35 f2.5

 

[__Brian]

Typically the prism of the RF window desilvers, causing the RF patch to dim. Shine a light through the eyepiece, look at the front of the camera. You can usually spot the problem.
There is a mask for the RF Window. Removing this mask improved the RF patch on my early S2. Basically- increases the portion of the prism that is used. Take off the face plate- you can get to the windows for the viewfinder and RF patch.

 

[Pentode]

I wonder what's up with your RF patch. I just bought an S2 - older than your S3 - and the RF patch is very bright.

I was going to say this:

Typically the prism of the RF window desilvers, causing the RF patch to dim.

but Brian beat me to it!

My repair guy told me that this is quite common on the Nikon RFs. Count yourself lucky to have one in better condition.
Mine is perfectly usable in typical lighting conditions but tougher to use in low light. I've considered looking for another with an RF patch that's in better shape because I like the camera so much.

 

[NB23]

 

[Huss]

View attachment 226408

Nikon rangefinder camera for sale. Always babied, never taken outside. No haze or signs of water damage. Don't ask me why I mention water damage. Low ballers ignored.

 

[NB23]

You should see one of my xpans...

 

[Theo Sulphate]

View attachment 226408

Humid where you are it is.

 

[NB23]

Humid where you are it is.

Actually, this occured during a snowstorm, as soon as I stepped inside the camera transformed into this within seconds.

 

[rknewcomb]

Is there something to be said for a clean Nikon S2 with its 1:1 and uncluttered frameline for 50mm only viewfinder?

 

[NB23]

Is there something to be said for a clean Nikon S2 with its 1:1 and uncluttered frameline for 50mm only viewfinder?

In Black Paint, it’s one of the most sexy cameras on the planet.

 

[StepheKoontz]

I have a really nice S2 and it's one of my favorite cameras. I did order a "barely used" S3 2000 body and will report back on how it compares. I like the idea that it works natively with a 35mm lens.

 

[__Brian]

Is there something to be said for a clean Nikon S2 with its 1:1 and uncluttered frameline for 50mm only viewfinder?

If you are shooting primarily with a 50mm lens: it is a great choice. In black- it is very expensive and very rare.
The later "Black-Dial" S2 has some improvements over the earlier S2.

The "Shutter-Brake" of the S2 is "distinctive", somewhat loud. Use with a half-case, quiets down a good bit.

 

[BMbikerider]

I don't know how much you are prepared to pay but a company in UK called Grays of Westminster have a mint example, complete with 50/1.4 listed as mint for £4500 (about $5850) Grays only deal with Nikon - they do not sell any other make.

 

[etn]

I don't know how much you are prepared to pay but a company in UK called Grays of Westminster have a mint example, complete with 50/1.4 listed as mint for £4500 (about $5850) Grays only deal with Nikon - they do not sell any other make.

This seems a tad high to me. Last time I was in Tokyo (OK, that was almost 2 years ago) black S3 millenium went for around $2500 together with the 50 1.4 lens, and silver versions for $1500-2000. This in mint condition without box. (okay, let's define "mint" ha ha)