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This is part of the Series E lens family that Nikon brought out in conjunction with their infamous ultra-compact SLR, the Nikon EM, first appeared in 1979 and followed by the FG and lastly the FG20. And eventually all were being discontinued, so too were the E series lenses - also knowned as the "plastic" Nikkors (actually, polycarbonate). And Nikon never associated the E Series lenses with their tradename "Nikkor". Instead, "Nikon" lens was used. That reflects the confidence level. The earlier days after launching, the EM and the lenses sold very well, and soon users backed off on its reliability issues. The initial reaction was natural, because of Nikon's long established image of building both good, rugged, first class optics and camera bodies and for those who has been aim and longing to have a Nikon nametaged hardware, they finally has an alternative to easy and economical entry into the huge Nikon photographic system. Tactically, I don;'t dispute at the marketing point of view of broaden the users' base of Nikon, but these lenses just buy my heart.. (Sorry..).
Relative: Nikon EM, FG and FG20 (new)
Series E lenses (new)
The focal length of 36-72mm came very close to another early Nikkor zoom of popularity, the Zoom Nikkor 43-86mm. (See below).
Shown here is the 43-86mm Nikon zoom lens mounted on a Nikon F2A.
Below was the first version, which was launched in 1963, for over certain period, it was hailed as one of the most popular lenses in 35mm photography - though optically, providing so-so performance (To be fair, the early days of zoom lenses...). And it was the designated lens for some of the US Navy F variables bodies during Vietnam war (Hunting for catual pictures of these camera, mail me if you have any - full credit will be given).
There is another very good view of this lens mounted on a Nikon FE with MD-11, which can be accessed by clicking here .
The oldest version.
John Walls contributed some pictures of his 43-86mm zoom lens.
Prior to be discontiniued.
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