Nikon S2
- hometecheasy
- Aug 19
- 2 min read
The Nikon S2 is a classic 35mm rangefinder camera produced by Nikon in the mid-20th century. It was introduced in 1954 as an improved version of the earlier Nikon S1. The S2 was part of Nikon's S-series rangefinder cameras, which were highly regarded for their build quality, precision, and compatibility with high-quality Nikkor lenses.
Key Features of the Nikon S2:
Viewfinder: The S2 featured a bright, clear viewfinder with a magnification of 1.0x, making it easier to compose shots. It also had a combined rangefinder and viewfinder system.
Shutter: It had a horizontal focal-plane shutter with speeds ranging from 1 to 1/1000 second, plus a Bulb mode for long exposures.
Lens Mount: The S2 used the Nikon S-mount, which was compatible with a wide range of Nikkor lenses, including 50mm, 35mm, 85mm, and 135mm focal lengths.
Film Advance: It featured a lever-style film advance mechanism, which was a significant improvement over the knob-style advance on the earlier S1.
Build Quality: Like other Nikon rangefinders, the S2 was known for its robust, all-metal construction, making it durable and reliable.
Flash Sync: It included a flash sync port for use with external flash units.
Historical Significance:
The Nikon S2 was a significant camera in Nikon's history, as it marked the company's transition from producing cameras primarily for the Japanese market to targeting international audiences. It was also one of the last rangefinder models before Nikon shifted its focus to single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras, such as the iconic Nikon F, which was introduced in 1959.
Collectibility:
Today, the Nikon S2 is a sought-after camera among collectors and vintage camera enthusiasts. Its classic design, mechanical precision, and historical importance make it a prized item. When in good condition, it can still be used to take high-quality photographs, especially when paired with Nikkor lenses.
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