Nikkor-Q Auto 135mm f/3.5 (Nippon Kogaku) Prime Lens

Nikkor-Q Auto 135mm f/3.5 (Nippon Kogaku) Prime Lens - Good Condition | Prime Lens | Classic Pre-AI Telephoto with Legendary Japanese Craftsmanship

The Nikkor-Q Auto 135mm f/3.5 (S/N: 883744) is a quintessential example of the "Golden Era" of Nikon optics, manufactured by Nippon Kogaku during the peak of the manual-focus SLR revolution. The "Q" in its name stands for "Quattuor," indicating its sophisticated four-element optical design, which was engineered for surgical central sharpness and exceptional color correction. Housed in a robust, scalloped all-metal barrel with deeply engraved markings, this lens is celebrated for its distinctive "vintage" character, providing a beautiful fall-off and organic bokeh that modern lenses struggle to replicate. Whether for portraiture or compressed landscape photography, this 135mm prime remains a benchmark for mechanical durability and optical honesty.

Key Features

• Classic 135mm focal length—the "gold standard" for flattering, compressed portraits

• Legendary Nikkor-Q four-element optical formula for natural, high-contrast rendering

• Robust, all-metal "Scalloped" barrel construction built to professional standards

• Early Nippon Kogaku branding, highly prized by Nikon collectors and historians

• Large, tactile manual focus ring with a generous, precise throw for critical focusing

• Integrated retractable lens hood to eliminate flare and protect the front element

• 6-blade diaphragm providing smooth, nostalgic out-of-focus highlights

Introductory Paragraph The Nikkor-Q Auto 135mm f/3.5 is the definitive choice for the photographer who values mechanical soul and optical character. This specific unit (S/N: 883744) represents the era when Nikon (then Nippon Kogaku) began to dominate the professional world. The 135mm perspective is incredibly versatile, pulling distant subjects into intimate view with a natural compression that is perfect for head-and-shoulder portraits. Because it was built during a time of uncompromising material quality, the lens feels like a solid precision instrument. Whether you are shooting on a classic Nikon F or adapting it to a modern mirrorless system for cinematography, this lens delivers a timeless, high-contrast look that defines the Nikon heritage.

Condition Report Good condition. The lens barrel (S/N: 883744) shows normal signs of light use and minor cosmetic surface wear consistent with its vintage age. The glass elements are optically clear, free from fungus, haze, or significant scratches. The aperture blades are clean, snappy, and free of oil. The manual focus ring is well-damped and rotates smoothly across the entire range. The integrated retractable hood functions correctly and holds its position.

Specialist Note "The 135mm f/3.5 is often overlooked in favor of its faster f/2.8 brother, but what I love about this Nikkor-Q is its compactness and edge-to-edge resolution. It’s an incredibly honest lens; by f/5.6, it is technically surgical. The mechanical build is just sublime—there is no plastic here, just heavy-duty brass and glass. It creates a specific 'pop' in the images that is very characteristic of early Nippon Kogaku glass. For anyone wanting to explore vintage telephoto photography with a lens that will literally last a lifetime, this is a top-tier choice."

What's Included

• Nikkor-Q Auto 135mm f/3.5 Prime Lens (S/N: 883744)

• Front and Rear Lens Caps

• Integrated Retractable Lens Hood

Technical Specifications

• Camera Type: Lenses

• Lens Mount: Nikon F-mount (Pre-AI)

• Focal Length: 135mm

• Maximum Aperture: f/3.5

• Category: 2. Lenses ▸ Prime Lens

• Filter Size: 52mm