Lens · prime
Nikkor 135mm f/2 AI-S
Nikon · 1981-2005
Discontinued35mm
Nikkor 135mm f/2 AI-S: 6 elements in 4 groups, 9 aperture blades, 1.3m minimum focus, 72mm filter thread, 860g.
- Focal length
- 135mm
- Max aperture
- f/2
- Mount
- Nikon F
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 6 / 4
Known for
- Portraits
- Events
- Concerts
- Low light telephoto
Considerations
- No ED glass - some CA
- Manual focus and aperture (Ai/Ai-S F-mount)
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Sharpness (wide)3, level 3 of 5
Sharpness (stopped)5, level 5 of 5
Contrast4, level 4 of 5
Flare resistance4, level 4 of 5
CA control3, level 3 of 5
Vignetting control3, level 3 of 5
Distortion control5, level 5 of 5
Bokeh: Exceptional, dreamy
Rendering: Beautiful subject separation
Colour: Warm, flattering
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Versions
AI (1977)
1977-1981
AI coupling ridge
Original version
AI-S (1981)
1981-2005
AI-S markings
Standardized aperture throw
One of the fastest 135mm lenses available.
Common issues
- Focus ring stiffness
- Aperture blade oil
Buying guide
Check focus smoothness and aperture action. The AI version is optically identical to AI-S.
Specifications
| Mount | Nikon F |
| Focal Length | 135mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Aperture Blades | 9 |
| Min Focus | 1.3m |
| Filter Size | 72mm |
| Weight | 860g |
Optical design
| Formula | Telephoto |
| Elements | 6 |
| Groups | 4 |
| Coating | NIC (Nikon) |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £400 - £600
- Mint
- ~£750
Indicative, no dated source.