Micro Nikkor 55mm f2.8 AF

[peter]

I have recently bought the AF version of the 55mm f2.8 Micro Nikkor.

 

I realize that it was not too popular when it was introduced, and hence only

lasted in this form for a short time, apparently because it was one of the first

AF lenses introduced by Nikon and has a kind of funky plastic look that was

shared with some other early AF lenses (e.g. the 70-210 f4) which users of the

time just did not like.

 

Probably understandable when you compare them with what went before them - all

that glass and metal in the late MF lenses made for lovely build. But in

retrospect, comparing them to later lenses, I have no complaints. In fact in

terms of appearance I have to say this lens looks damn cool on my D70s and may

find a place as my standard lens.

 

However I should add that I only avoided the later 60mm version, as this one

goes for about half the price of that one. I also nderstand that this one

produces as good sharpness at distance as it does up close. This is another plus

for me as the later 60mm one is said to have sacrificed distance sharpness for

macro sharpness.

 

Now down to business. Opinions of users please?

 

Any problems, foibles things I should look for. I know that the earlier MF one

has a reputation for sticky diaphragm but I hope this problem is not shared - it

was a major redesign after all. Is there anything else I need to know.

 

It would be good to know your opinions of the image quality too.

 

Thanks folks

[radfordneal]

I have one, which I use on my D50 and film bodies, and am delighted with the image quality. It's a bit big and klunky, but manual focusing seems nicer than some other AF lenses.

[david_feindel]

I have had one for something like 20 years, and continue to use it on both film and digital cameras. Never had any mechanical or optical issues with it; it remains very sharp and works smoothly. Only issue is that manual focus isn't as easy as you'd like with a micro lens; the ring is fairly narrow. But given its lower price compared to a 60mm micro, I think its a good deal. Great for macro shots of things that don't move; a bit challenging to use for live animals, just like the 60mm version.

[joseph_smith3]

I bought mine on ebay a few years ago to use with my f 100 and I now use it on my d 200. Its optical quality is superb. I believe it is a flat field lens as well as a macro lens and many use it for copy pourposes in copy stands. I use it more for general landscapes than for macro. Joe Smith

[peter]

Thank you folks, thats very reassuring to know. I have had a little chance to take a couple of shots with it and to date it looks impressive. I will try to post some when I have a chance to take a few more.