Nikkormat 35mm Film Format Cameras

Vintage Photography with 35mm Film Cameras

Utilizing the same lenses as the F series cameras, Nikkormat produced its 35mm cameras between 1965 and 1978 as a simpler option when compared to its professional film cameras. These vintage film cameras contain an all-metal design and fully mechanical controls, with some quirky operations that make them endearing to those looking for a retro SLR 35mm film camera. In addition to being mechanically sound and having impressive technical capabilities, their compatibility with F series lenses means you have a wide variety of options and focal lengths at your disposal.

Which Nikkormat 35mm SLRs Are Available?

One of the first cameras produced under the brand name was the FT, which embraced many of the technological advancements taking place in camera manufacturing at the time. You can use it to shoot film without batteries, except when using the light metering system, and it features a center-the-needle system to read a full-frame average through the lens.

• The FS is similar in design to the FT, but without the built-in light meter and, due to its reduced popularity, it is rarer and more valuable among collectors today.
• The FTn features a simplified lens mounting system and an improved metering system while displaying exposure and shutter speed information on the viewfinder.
• The EL series includes a range of electro-mechanically controlled SLRs with manual focus and either manual exposure control or aperture-priority autoexposure, with the camera selecting the correct shutter speed for a sound exposure.

Which Lenses Are Available?

You can discover a huge variety of lenses available for early retro 35mm models, as many are compatible with all F bayonet mount lenses equipped with a meter coupler, known affectionately as rabbit ears.

• You can pair your vintage camera with entry-level lenses or top-of-the-range professional F mount lenses, depending on your preferences and budget.
• FT cameras also feature a mirror lock-up lever so you can fit it with specialty lenses and optical viewfinders to experiment further.
• Shoot landscapes with a wide-angle 10-24mm, capture beautiful portraits with a wide aperture 50mm, or take advantage of the versatility of a 55-300mm zoom.

Why Should You Buy a Vintage Camera?

The classic design of vintage cameras makes them popular among film photographers and camera enthusiasts around the world.

• Provided they are well taken care of, they suffer very few mechanical failures and only need occasional maintenance, such as cleaning and lubrication, to stay in optimal working order.
• Vintage 35mm options are readily available on the secondhand market, with a good choice of mechanically precise and technically capable cameras to add to your collection.