Lens · prime
Nikkor 85mm f/2 AI-S
Nikon · 1981-1995
Discontinued35mm
Nikkor 85mm f/2 AI-S: 5 elements in 5 groups, 7 aperture blades, 0.85m minimum focus, 52mm filter thread, 310g.
- Focal length
- 85mm
- Max aperture
- f/2
- Mount
- Nikon F
- Format
- 35mm
- Elements / groups
- 5 / 5
Known for
- Portraits
- Travel
- Events
- Street telephoto
Considerations
- Less subject isolation
- Less 'character' wide open
- Manual focus and aperture (Ai/Ai-S F-mount)
Optical characteristics
Silverlog's editorial rating: our own judgement, not measured data.
Sharpness (wide)4, level 4 of 5
Sharpness (stopped)5, level 5 of 5
Contrast4, level 4 of 5
Flare resistance4, level 4 of 5
CA control4, level 4 of 5
Vignetting control4, level 4 of 5
Distortion control5, level 5 of 5
Bokeh: Pleasant, smooth for 7-blade
Rendering: Sharp, contrasty, less dreamy than f/1.4
Colour: Neutral
Silverlog's editorial rating, 1 to 5; five is best. Not lab-measured.
Versions
AI (1977)
1977-1981
AI coupling ridge
Same optics as AI-S
AI-S (1981)
1981-1995
AI-S markings
Standardized aperture throw
Common issues
- Focus ring wear
- Minor coating wear
Buying guide
Check focus smoothness. Check aperture blade operation and focus smoothness, and inspect the glass for haze, fungus or cleaning marks.
Specifications
| Mount | Nikon F |
| Focal Length | 85mm |
| Max Aperture | f/2 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Aperture Blades | 7 |
| Min Focus | 0.85m |
| Filter Size | 52mm |
| Weight | 310g |
Optical design
| Formula | Double Gauss |
| Elements | 5 |
| Groups | 5 |
| Coating | NIC (Nikon) |
Pricing
- Typical used price
- £150 - £280
- Mint
- ~£350
Indicative, no dated source.