Nikon F3

Nikon F3 35mm SLR Body | Professional Reliability in a Giorgetto Giugiaro Design

The Nikon F3 represents a monumental shift in the history of professional photography, being the first in Nikon's flagship "F" series to embrace electronic shutter timing and a sleek, modern aesthetic designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro. This specific unit, bearing serial number 1380032, was produced in approximately August 1981, placing it in the early, highly sought-after production era of this legendary system. Built like a tank yet refined in its operation, the F3 features a horizontal-travel titanium shutter and a highly accurate 80/20 center-weighted metering system that remains a favorite among film enthusiasts today.

Key Features

• Aperture-Priority Auto & Manual Control: Offers the perfect balance of creative control and speed, with a shutter speed range from 8 seconds to 1/2000s.

• Rugged Titanium Shutter: Engineered for professional longevity, the horizontal focal-plane shutter is both precise and durable.

• 100% Viewfinder Coverage: What you see in the finder is exactly what you get on the negative, a hallmark of Nikon's professional lineage.

• Interchangeable System: Compatible with a vast array of viewfinders, focusing screens, and motor drives (MD-4), allowing you to tailor the camera to any shooting style.

• Mechanical Backup: Even if your batteries fail, the F3 features a mechanical shutter release at 1/60s (indicated as 'M90'), ensuring you never miss a shot.

Condition Report

• Body: Good condition. Shows typical signs of professional use, such as brassing on the edges and light surface marks, which add to its vintage character.

• Sensor / Optics: The viewfinder is clear with minimal dust. The mirror is clean, and the foam light seals are in good, functional condition.

• Mechanics / Electronics: All shutter speeds fire accurately, including the slow speeds. The light meter is fully responsive and accurate. The LCD display in the viewfinder is crisp and easily legible.

• Shutter Count: Not applicable (Analog film camera).

"The Nikon F3 is the quintessential professional tool. Its film advance is famously smooth—thanks to eleven ball bearings—and the Giugiaro-designed red stripe is a badge of photographic history. It's a camera that feels alive in your hands."

What's Included

• Nikon F3 Camera Body (Serial No. 1380032)

• Nikon Body Cap

• New 2x LR44 Batteries (installed)

• Original Nikon Neck Strap

Technical Specifications

• Category: 35mm SLR Camera

• Lens Mount: Nikon F Bayonet (supports AI, AI-S, and non-AI lenses via stop-down)

• Shutter Speeds: 8s to 1/2000s, Bulb, and Mechanical 1/60s

• Metering: TTL Center-Weighted (80/20)

• Film Speed: ISO 12 to 6400

• Battery Type: 2x 1.5V LR44 or SR44

• Weight: Approx. 715g