This did more than any other single-lens reflex (SLR) camera to enhance the reputation of the Japanese photographic industry and its products. Introduced in 1959, it quickly became a best-seller and professionals' choice. Although not the first SLR, it incorporated features that made it particularly appealing. Its superlative build quality made it attractive to professionals, notably photojournalists in combat situations; the viewfinder gave a 100 per cent view; it came with a range of accessories including a four-frame-per-second motordrive; and it was immediately available with lenses from 21 mm to 500 mm. The Nikkor lenses, especially, were recognized as being of exceptional quality.
Between 1959 and 19 May 1974, when production ended, 862, 600 cameras were made. Users included such legendary names as Don McCullin, W. Eugene Smith, David Douglas Duncan, Alfred Eisenstaedt, and nearly every photographer on Life magazine from 1960 until its close. It was also standard equipment at National Geographic and United Press International (UPI). Its use in Vietnam and at most demonstrations in the 1960s confirmed its iconic status.
The Nikon F was instrumental in helping the SLR and 35 mm film gain acceptance amongst professionals, encouraged consumer acceptance of Japanese photographic equipment, and helped to start the development of ‘system’ SLR cameras with a range of lenses and accessories designed to work with and complement each other. Subsequent Nikon models, with the F2 from 1971, extended this concept.
— Michael Pritchard
Bibliography
- Cooper, J. D., and Abbot, J. C., Nikon F Nikkormat Handbook of Photography (1968).
- Matanle, I., ‘Right from the Start’,
Amateur Photographer , 200/3 (26 July 2003)
