85/1.5 Nikkor Rangefinder Lens

The 85/1.5 Nikkor is one of the key lenses for Nikon collectors. It's the fastest telephoto made for the Nikon Rangefinder System. Easily scratched by virtue of its own weight in a camera bag, it's exceedingly difficult to find in Mint- or better condition.  The 85/1.5  came with its own special reversible hood and lens cap.  Several hundred were also made in Leica Screw Mount and Contax mount.  The Contax lenses are marked with a large "C" on the lens barrel.

An 85/1.5 was mandatory in the Rangefinder System races of the late 50's since both Leitz and Canon had their own 85/1.5's. For the photographer at the time, it offered speed that no other lens could better in a portrait focal length. For the collector today, it offers an example of traditional craftsmanship in a very rare package. Performance? By today's standards, all three 85/1.5's are lacking wide open, but improve much by 5.6 and beyond.   This is one of the few Nikon Rangefinder lenses which were only made in black.   Today it is one of the most sought after lenses by Nikon collectors.

 

 

85/1.5 with Lens shade attached

 

 

 

 

Never made in Nikon F mount, the 85/1.5 lives on today in the 85/1.4 AF Nikkor.

Revised: November 25, 2003 .  Copyright © 1998-2002  Stephen Gandy. All rights reserved.    This means you may NOT copy and re-use the text or the pictures in ANY other internet or printed publication of ANY kind.  Information in this document is subject to change without notice.  Other products and companies referred to herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or mark holders.