How to check the age of a nikon lens

7 years 2 months ago #516012 by Stacy Merrow
Can someone help me out here please?  I'm buying a used lens tomorrow and want to verify the age of the lens before I buy it. 

Thank you!!


Photo Comments
,
7 years 2 months ago #516013 by Screamin Scott
Here is a link that will help you out...The serial number will help narrow down the years produced if there are several iterations. I own a large number of old MF and AF lenses, some of which I bought used.

www.photosynthesis.co.nz/nikon/serialno.html

Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/

Photo Comments
,
7 years 2 months ago #516014 by Stacy Merrow
So So helpful.  Thank you!!!


Photo Comments
,
7 years 2 months ago #516165 by effron
I'd be more concerned with condition than age....

Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,
7 years 2 months ago #516444 by Meskill
:agree: what I was going to say, the condition is most important.   


Photo Comments
,
7 years 2 months ago #516464 by effron
Yup, I have some very old lenses still in very nice condition....

Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,
7 years 2 months ago #516469 by Screamin Scott
Condition is easy to check. Age is a bit harder plus the OP asked about checking the age , not the condition.

Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/

Photo Comments
,
7 years 2 months ago #516477 by effron
We know what the question was, maybe good advice can be offered sans request?

Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,
7 years 2 months ago #516740 by Joves
:agree:
He is just trying to help with what the real priority should be. While it is nice to know when it was made, it means nothing to the end use of it. In my opinion though most of the older primes are built far better than the newer ones for durability.


,
7 years 2 months ago #516748 by Danny Carson

Joves wrote: :agree:
He is just trying to help with what the real priority should be. While it is nice to know when it was made, it means nothing to the end use of it. In my opinion though most of the older primes are built far better than the newer ones for durability.


How so?  Are you talking from build quality or optics?  


Photo Comments
,
7 years 2 months ago #517298 by Joves
In some cases both Danny. There are rating pages for some of the older lenses. Now there were also a bunch of stinkers out there too. But those are usually the zooms of old. Many of the old metal lens bodies are built for war.


,
7 years 2 months ago #517299 by Screamin Scott
A lot less that can fail on the older mechanical lenses as opposed to newer electronic models.

Scott Ditzel Photography

www.flickr.com/photos/screaminscott/

Photo Comments
,
7 years 2 months ago #517339 by effron

Screamin Scott wrote: A lot less that can fail on the older mechanical lenses as opposed to newer electronic models.


That's the gospel...I've seen older and modern af lenses both disassembled and its amazing what they pack into a modern lens....

Why so serious?
Photo Comments
,
7 years 2 months ago #518329 by Joves

effron wrote:

Screamin Scott wrote: A lot less that can fail on the older mechanical lenses as opposed to newer electronic models.


That's the gospel...I've seen older and modern af lenses both disassembled and its amazing what they pack into a modern lens....

:rofl:
Yeah I have found out what I could break on one of the newer lenses when disassembling it. I had one 18-105 that was dead anyhow, and took it apart to try, and see if I could get it functional again. Nope those little electronic ribbons are really fragile.


,
3 years 7 months ago - 3 years 7 months ago #695557 by Will-Haryson
Hello! For those who still looking for a good source to check the age of a Nikon lens:
www.photosynthesis.co.nz/nikon/lenses.html - all about different types of Nikon lens
www.bestadvisor.com/macro-lenses-for-nikon - first two -- one of my favourite lens

Will.


,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Fujifilm XT5 is a 40MP mirrorless camera capable of 6.2K video at 30p. With those specs, it’s an ideal choice for photographers needing a camera to pull double duty for imaging and video.

Apr 25, 2024

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

Urban photography is a genre showcasing features in urban settings. You can photograph people, architecture, mass transit, and many other subjects. Learn how to do so in this guide!

Apr 30, 2024

The Nikon D850 might be an older DSLR, but it was ahead of its time when it debuted in 2017. That means it still has plenty of firepower to compete with today’s powerful mirrorless cameras.

Apr 30, 2024

The best beginner camera isn’t the same for everyone. That means having choice is of the utmost importance. In this guide, explore five excellent beginner camera options for 2024 and beyond.

Apr 25, 2024

Child portrait photography is a unique undertaking requiring special skills and talents to get the best results. Start mastering this photography niche with these essential tips!

Apr 25, 2024

The Fujifilm XT5 is a 40MP mirrorless camera capable of 6.2K video at 30p. With those specs, it’s an ideal choice for photographers needing a camera to pull double duty for imaging and video.

Apr 25, 2024

Using leading lines in photography helps improve the composition by drawing viewers in and leading their eye from the foreground to the background. Explore some fine examples of this in this guide!

Apr 24, 2024

The Insta360 has one of the best lineups of action cams and 360-degree cameras. With these Insta360 accessories, you can elevate your photography and videography game!

Apr 24, 2024

Creating impactful photos of landscapes depends on many factors, not the least of which is your talent behind the lens. This guide explores other elements required for the best product.

Apr 23, 2024