Nikon FM2

The Nikon FM2 is a legendary 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera introduced by Nikon Corporation in 1982. It is widely regarded as one of the finest mechanical SLR cameras ever made, offering exceptional durability, precision, and performance. The FM2 was designed as a successor to the Nikon FM and became a favorite among professional and enthusiast photographers for its rugged construction and advanced features. Here’s a detailed look at the Nikon FM2:

Historical Context

• The Nikon FM2 was released in 1982 as an upgrade to the Nikon FM (1977), which was a fully mechanical camera without autoexposure.

• It was designed to meet the needs of photographers who preferred fully mechanical cameras for their reliability and simplicity, especially in extreme conditions.

• The FM2 was part of Nikon's compact SLR series, which also included the Nikon FE2, FG, and FA.

• It remained in production until 2001, making it one of the longest-produced mechanical SLR cameras in history.

Key Features

1. Fully Mechanical Operation:

   • The FM2 was a fully mechanical camera, meaning it did not rely on batteries for its shutter or film advance. This made it highly reliable in extreme temperatures and remote locations.

   • The only electronic component was the light meter, which required two 1.5V silver oxide batteries (SR44 or equivalent).

2. High-Speed Shutter:

   • The FM2 featured a vertical-travel, titanium-bladed focal-plane shutter with speeds ranging from 1 second to 1/4000 second, plus Bulb mode.

   • The shutter was renowned for its durability and precision, with a rated lifespan of 100,000 cycles.

   

3. Flash Sync Speed:

   • The FM2 had an impressive flash sync speed of 1/200 second, making it ideal for studio and action photography.

4. TTL Metering System:

   • The FM2 used a center-weighted TTL (through-the-lens) metering system, which measured light through the lens for accurate exposures.

   • The meter displayed a needle match system in the viewfinder, indicating proper exposure.

5. Viewfinder:

   • The FM2 had a fixed prism viewfinder with 93% frame coverage and a 0.86x magnification.

   • The viewfinder displayed shutter speed, aperture, and exposure information, making it highly user-friendly.

6. Lens Compatibility:

   • The FM2 used the Nikon F-mount, making it compatible with a wide range of Nikkor lenses, including AI (Automatic Indexing) and AI-S lenses.

   • Popular lenses included the 50mm f/1.4, 35mm f/2, and 105mm f/2.5.

7. Build Quality:

   • The FM2 was built to withstand heavy use, with a durable metal body and chrome finish.

   • It was designed for reliability, making it a popular choice for photographers in various conditions.

8. Film Advance and Rewind:

   • The camera featured a rapid-wind lever for quick film advance and a foldable rewind knob for compact storage.

9. Accessories:

   • The FM2 was compatible with a range of accessories, including:

     • Motor Drive MD-12: Allowed for continuous shooting at up to 3.2 frames per second.

     • Speedlight SB-15: A compact external flash unit designed for use with the FM2.

Notable Variants

The Nikon FM2 was produced in several variants, each with slight improvements:

1. Nikon FM2 (1982): The original model with a titanium-bladed shutter and 1/200 second flash sync speed.

2. Nikon FM2n (1984): An updated version with a 1/250 second flash sync speed and improved shutter design.

3. Nikon FM2/T (1994): A premium model with a titanium body and black finish, designed for enhanced durability and a unique aesthetic.

4. Nikon FM2 Limited Edition (2000): A special edition released to commemorate the end of production, featuring a black paint finish and engraved serial numbers.

Why the Nikon FM2 is Special

• Mechanical Excellence: The FM2 is one of the last fully mechanical professional SLR cameras, known for its durability and reliability.

• High-Speed Shutter: Its 1/4000 second shutter speed and 1/200 (or 1/250) second flash sync speed were groundbreaking for its time.

• Versatility: The FM2's compatibility with a wide range of lenses and accessories made it highly adaptable to different shooting scenarios.

• Legacy: The FM2 set a high standard for mechanical cameras and remains a favorite among collectors and film photographers.

Collectibility and Market Value

• The Nikon FM2 is highly collectible, particularly special editions like the FM2/T and FM2n.

• Prices vary depending on the variant, condition, and included accessories. The FM2/T is often the most sought-after model due to its titanium body and premium finish.

Conclusion

The Nikon FM2 is a masterpiece of camera engineering, combining ruggedness, versatility, and precision. Its fully mechanical design and advanced features made it a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts alike. Whether you're shooting with it or adding it to your collection, the FM2 is a testament to Nikon's legacy of excellence and remains a beloved camera for film photography enthusiasts.