macro35mmdiscontinued
Micro-Nikkor 55mm f/3.5 AI-S
Nikon · 1977-1983
The original Micro-Nikkor in the AI-S era. Optically excellent despite the simpler 5-element design. Slower than the f/2.8 replacement but equally sharp. Excellent value for macro and copy work.
Known for
- Macro photography
- Copy work
- Document reproduction
- Budget macro
Considerations
- f/3.5 is slow
- 5-blade aperture
- Superseded by f/2.8
Optical Characteristics
Sharpness (wide)5/5
Sharpness (stopped)5/5
Contrast5/5
Flare Resistance4/5
CA Control5/5
Vignetting Control4/5
Distortion Control5/5
Bokeh: Pentagonal highlights due to 5-blade
Rendering: Extremely sharp, clinical
Color: Neutral
Common Issues
- Focus ring wear
- Aperture blade wear
Buying Guide
Excellent budget macro lens. Often overlooked for the f/2.8. Check focus smoothness through the long throw. Optically exceptional.
Specifications
MountNikon F
Focal Length55mm
Max Aperturef/3.5
Min Aperturef/32
Aperture Blades5
Min Focus0.23m
Filter Size52mm
Weight235g
Optical Design
FormulaDouble Gauss
Elements5
Groups4
CoatingNIC (Nikon)
Pricing
£80 - £140
Typical used price
Mint: ~£180
Budget alternative to f/2.8. Great value.
Adapts To
Sony EFujifilm XCanon RFNikon Z
Compatible Cameras
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Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error