Lens · prime
Nikkor 35mm f/1.4 AI-S
Nikon · 1981-2020
Nikkor 35mm f/1.4 AI-S: 9 elements in 7 groups, 9 aperture blades, 0.3m minimum focus, 52mm filter thread, 400g.
- Focal length
- 35mm
- Max aperture
- f/1.4
- Mount
- Nikon F
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 9 / 7
Known for
- Street photography
- Documentary
- Environmental portraits
- Low light wide-angle
Considerations
- Some barrel distortion
- Prone to flare without hood
- Manual focus and aperture (Ai/Ai-S F-mount)
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Bokeh: Smooth, dreamy wide open
Rendering: Classic dreamy glow at f/1.4, sharp stopped down
Colour: Neutral
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Versions
AI (1977)
1977-1981
7 aperture blades, 180° focus throw
Longer focus throw, 7 blades
AI-S (1981)
1981-2020
9 aperture blades, 105° focus throw
Smoother bokeh, quicker focusing
AI-S has 9 aperture blades vs 7, and shorter focus throw. Kept in production until 2020 - testament to its quality.
Common issues
- Focus ring wear
- Aperture blade oil
- Front element scratches
Buying guide
Check for smooth CRC focusing mechanism and clean aperture blades. Check aperture blade operation and focus smoothness, and inspect the glass for haze, fungus or cleaning marks.
Specifications
| Mount | Nikon F |
| Focal Length | 35mm |
| Max Aperture | f/1.4 |
| Min Aperture | f/16 |
| Aperture Blades | 9 |
| Min Focus | 0.3m |
| Filter Size | 52mm |
| Weight | 400g |
Optical design
| Formula | Retrofocus |
| Elements | 9 |
| Groups | 7 |
| Coating | NIC (Nikon) |
| Special | CRC (Close Range Correction) |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £400 - £650
- Mint
- ~£800
Indicative, no dated source.