1954 S2 Black/black and accessories question

[Nikolai77]

In going through my dad's estate, I came across his camera bag. It contains the camera and accessories he bought in Japan, while in the Navy in the 50's. He treated these items like a surgeon and as far as I can tell each piece is in near perfect condition. I shot a roll of film and the shots came out beautifully, so everything appears to be working great.

I have many great things to remember my dad by, so I'm really more interested in getting this into the hands of someone who will appreciate it the way he did. Here is a list of what is in the bag, as best I can describe it:

- Nikon S2 (Black case/black shutter speed dial) SN #6188929
- NIKKOR - S.C 1:1.4 f=5cm Nippon Kogaku lens
- Second lens (backup, never used) identical to above)
- TELE-TANAR 135mm f:3.5 Tanaka Kogaku lens and Tanak viewing attachment
- Leather case with collection of 5 Walz filters
- Weston Master II Universal Exposure meter

Everything above appears to be in their original leather cases. I would appreciate any insight on reaching out to collectors, or finding a place or person to appraise. I live in the Washington DC area. Thanks very much!

Nick

 

[James24]

Your Dad had great taste! A beautiful kit.

My understanding of your post is that your S2 is an all black body with black dials? If so it is extremely desirable especially as you say it is in perfect condition.

Perhaps you could post some photos?

 

[Richard G]

Have you got children? Don't sell it. Lend it to someone you know with an interest, or just run a roll through it now and then and fire the shutter at all speeds once a month and leave it in the sun indoors for an afternoon once a month. You or your children will regret getting rid of it. Many here would love it. A collector's shelf is a dismal fate for it. Good luck with your plans.

 

[NIKON KIU]

There are no black cameras within the 6188xxx numbers.
This must be a chrome camera with black dials equipped with a black lens with chrome filter ring.
Not really a collectors piece unless there are boxes and paperwork(manuals,guarantee cards,etc.).

The whole package is worth $1000-$1500 in today's market.

Kiu

 

[BillBingham2]

I was about to recommend that you contact KIU but he already answered. He is one of the folks I would trust on this sort of thing and is local to you.

You might try to buy him a lunch/drink/tea and let him look first hand.

Selling here is always a much better move than any other spot. He might be able to tell you some aspects (MIOJ or EP markings) that could help you list it and perhaps bring a higher price.

I wish I could make you an offer on at least the extra 50 but I'm about to be between jobs again. Come to think of it I did promise my wife that I would not......damn Nikon RF GAS is strong.....

Sorry about your fathers passing. It's wonderful that you have good memories and a few meaningful items to remember him. In many ways he was a lucky man.

Goog luck.

B2

 

[Nikolai77]

Thanks and some pics

Thanks and some pics

Thank you all for your replies. I'm not surprised that my dad had the foresight to get such a great camera. Our family photo albums are a testament to the beautiful photos he took with it.

Here are some photos of the camera and accessories (minus the filters). FYI.

While I would love to keep it, for many reasons it would be best to sell it. I do appreciate the wise words though. Any advice on how to proceed would be appreciated. Best to all.

 

[James24]

Do you have an established eBay ID with good feedback? If so, I would auction it in lots .... perhaps sell the S2 body with one of the 50mm lenses with a start price of $900. The other 50mm lens you could start at around $200. I suggest either 7 day or 10 day auctions. I don't know what the 135mm is worth - not a lot I imagine. The Weston and the filters are not big money, but a bit of careful lotting with some decent photos and an accurate description and you hopefully might achieve something around $1500 which is Kiu's upper estimate.

Alternatively you could try selling it here but you'll need to fix your asking price.