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Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/4

I have a special personal deep feeling with this lens.
So I hope whatever I said will not influent anyone.

Compare with the f2.8 version, the optical construction is 5 elements in 3 groups	The newer version -10 elements in 9 groups (Discontinued)

First look at its simple, straight forward optical construction (5 elements in 3 groups). Could be the reason why this lens can yield such exceptional sharpness.
A friend made an offer and I took it. Has been accompanied me for a couple of years until the front lens element has a hairline scratch while on-loan to a photographer friend, he compensated by taking over, and it was gone...

I missed this lens a lot, and that day I saw a similar lens was advertised by Stan Tarmakin and prompted me to ask for a quote. I don't mind to keep it as a spare lens or it could even be mounted on my camera as a day to day standard companion.

Very few lenses can made me feel like kicking myself after disposal. But you know since this lens (in mint condition) can only be sourced on the used market, just have to be patience. Somehow, the newer Micro-Nikkor doesn't give me that kind of "bite"...

Well, to discourage you to make a bid with me on the net (Just in case..hehe..), let me tell you some minor draw-backs of this lens. It is one full stop smaller - meaning: it is harder to focus comfortably like the bright viewfinder that generate through the f2.8 of the newer version. Secondly, this lens needs extra-care on handling - because the back "entrance" is very deep in its opening (Sounds weird..) and dust or alien particles can get in easily. May need constant annual clean up, lastly, unlike the new AF version (but stay the same with the manual f2.8 version), it needs an extension ring to achieve 1:1 reproduction ratio. There is no Nikon's CRC (Close Range Correction system) employed.

The PN-11 for reproduction ratio of 1:1 with both lenses of f4 & f2.8

View when mounted on a F2AS.

Other than that, nothing should come close to its optical excellence.

Flatness of field is just outstanding. Stop down to f32 for more options in critical depth of field manupulation. Takes standard 52mm, built in telescopic lens hood. With a picture angle of 23° 20' and weighing 500g.

Generally, this lens (as any of the medium and long Micro-Nikkors) is also an excellent telephoto lens. Medium Macro lens provides extra working distance for shooting elusive subjects and/or ones that required supplementary illumination like flash gun etc. In short, it provides a more comforting and relaxing working distance when shooting macro works. It is a universal lens, flexible enough to handle photographic uses like, still life, products, portraiture, close ups, macro, scenic, photojournalism, travel, candids etc in and out of the studio as well.

But this specticular lens was discontinued for some time, path the way to the upgraded version of Micro-Nikkor 105mm f2.8 and with an AF version now.

The older version of the 105mm Micro Nikkor mounted with an extension tube PN1 (Later version uses PN11 to achieve 1:1 life size). Note the lens release catch on the extension ring. The 105mm f4 inherits the optics of the much acclaimed 105mm f4 Bellows-Nikkor.

So, this is it.

Now check the 105 f2.8 version.

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