Digital Nikon FM2 ?

[Sparrow]

I guess it is a hoax, sounds too dreamed-up, but I would love to be proven wrong. 🙂 Maybe the totally opposite direction compared to almost anyone else in the business is the right thing.

It strikes me as up-the-wall as if Pentax (also known as Ricoh nowadays) would issue a FF SLR.

... prefer the rumour that Sigma are working on full frame foveon in their next range of cameras

 

[N.delaRua]

Why do people care about FPS? I've never seen the need other than sports and maybe fashion. I want an advance lever 🙂

 

[dmc]

While this rumour seems far fetched, it is interesting that Nikon did file for a patent to place a digital sensor into a film camera body some time ago. Around the same time, they filed for a patent for a new 50mm/1.8 manual focus lens.

The idea that the market is too small for a camera of this type may be seen from a different perspective by Nikon. The fact is that the market for small point and shoot cameras is shrinking rapidly, mostly due to the use of smart phones for this type of photography. The market for basic SLR/Mirrorless cameras is being diluted by new models seemingly being announced weekly. It may be that Nikon is looking around at potential products to bring to market that appeal to a more boutique style buyer. Bring many of these specialty models to market, at higher than standard margins, and perhaps Nikon makes up for the point and shoot losses they are experiencing.

I, for one, find the idea of an FM2 style camera being released as a digital camera, specifically for use with AIS lenses, very appealing. I have used the Nikon F line of cameras since the 60's and I still use my FM2n every day. I really enjoy the simplicity of manual metering and manual focusing. It causes me to use my brain and it seems to enhance creativity.

So yes, put me down for one.

 

[uhoh7]

Over the last several years the nikon/canon rumours have been lots of BS and a bit of truth--like right before a launch.

SAR sonyalpharumours, on the other hand has been highly accurate--not 100%. But he has a rating system and really cultivates sources etc.

I hope it's true---I'll take the Sony A7r, of course, but the more new FF options the better.

Canikon must just be reeling right now. Sony has stolen a crucial march with A7, as pre-orders and wide enthusiasm from many pros indicates.

 

[GaryLH]

... like the rumour that Sigma are working on full frame foveon in their next range of cameras :looking-elsewere-whistling-smily:

Hmmmm.... Had not heard that rumor. Saving money.. Just in case. They Got my money for sure if it is a csc w/ a evf. 😀

Gary

 

[f16sunshine]

It's a manual focus DSLR ?

What am I not understanding? I thought Nikon users could manual focus with thier old F mount lenses on current DSLR models. Why give up the auto focus capability( or is it AF as well)?
Is it just to have a classic body style?

Is this a revolutionary body or just style points?

I'm not being sarcastic I really don't understand the fuss if there is any.

 

[GaryLH]

Going to a digital fm2 is more interesting to me then the d600/700/800.. Just so long that don't do something stupid like disable all metering if u are using an AI/AIS lens.

Gary

 

[CK Dexter Haven]

I can't get excited yet. There are so many ways for Nikon to f this up ... if it's even true.

Yah.
I'm disappointed by the 16MP spec. 24/36 would be more interesting, but i guess Nikon needs to leave room for the second version.

They very well could muck this up if the build is less metal and more plastic. It's really got to FEEL like a classic camera. Dials, metal, weight, all that. It's got to be a sensual design matter. Something like an OM-D with a Nikon badge will not do.

 

[stompyq]

No video according to the latest rumor. I was wondering how they were getting it to be that small.

 

[robert blu]

Going to a digital fm2 is more interesting to me then the d600/700/800.. Just so long that don't do something stupid like disable all metering if u are using an AI/AIS lens.

Gary

+1
robert

 

[dmc]

It's a manual focus DSLR ?

What am I not understanding? I thought Nikon users could manual focus with thier old F mount lenses on current DSLR models. Why give up the auto focus capability( or is it AF as well)?
Is it just to have a classic body style?

Is this a revolutionary body or just style points?

I'm not being sarcastic I really don't understand the fuss if there is any.

I think none of this is clear. It would appear that this camera would use both AF and MF lenses seamlessly. AIS lenses on current SLR models are not easy to use and are limited as to feature set. Not to mention the fact that you have to input the focal length in order for the meter to work. Focusing can also be difficult, especially for blind old fools like me.

There is no fuss here, I don't think. This would be a specialty camera for special users. I think the days of a camera being all things to all users is over. You will see much more of this sort of thing in the future, even if this one proves to be false.

 

[Addy101]

No video according to the latest rumor. I was wondering how they were getting it to be that small.

The video doesn't take a lot of room..... Leaving out video doesn't make it small. It makes it impossible to market though, just another indication this is nothing but wishful thinking 😱

 

[jschrader]

It's a manual focus DSLR ?

What am I not understanding? I thought Nikon users could manual focus with thier old F mount lenses on current DSLR models. Why give up the auto focus capability( or is it AF as well)?
Is it just to have a classic body style?

You can and you cannot. You do not really focus easily on the screen that is made for AF. I have a D700; I often need the focus indicator of the AF system because I simply do not clearly see what is in focus.

With the old F type cameras it was much clearer to see.

 

[Frank Petronio]

This would have to be a radical mind shift for Nikon to come out with a stripped-down yet high quality camera... but it would be so cool because then Canon and others would try to follow. If they do something half as good as people's imaginations then they'll discover a huge pent-up market.

 

[froyd]

I'm encouraged by the fact that is the company that brought back the S3 and SP, albeit in limited editions.

Though I have abandoned Nikon after they went digital, the rumored camera sounds like something I would like and not unthinkable considering their RF reissues. The price though might put a damper on my excitement!

 

[N.delaRua]

I just want it to be within the price range of the Sony A7.... or cheaper. Preferably cheaper. Hopefully stripped down, manual controls, and retro design means cheaper, but most likely not.

 

[Highway 61]

I have a D700; I often need the focus indicator of the AF system because I simply do not clearly see what is in focus.

With the old F type cameras it was much clearer to see.

True, yet the D700 is probably one of the best AF camera for manual focusing. Really. I use mine with my manual Nikkors only (no AF lens here) and I haven't had any focus errors yet.

If it's still difficult for you, try the DK-17M lupe. Not expensive and really, really useful. With it, what is in focus "pops out" like it did in the past...

But I agree that a classic Fresnel focusing screen - not usable on an AF camera - will remain the best of the best solution to accurately focus manually, with or without the split image in the center of the screen.

 

[daveleo]

I use a Katzeye focusing screen on my Nikon D5100 and manual focus lenses (24, 28, 45, 50, 55, 105). It helps focusing quite a bit (plus that little green light as backup ).

Never noticed any interference with the auto focus operation when using AF lenses.

 

[robert blu]

Simplicity, manual controls, manual focus lenses, AIS...and maybe that Zeiss lenses....for me (if real) it could be interesting...
robert
PS. my love/hate relationship with Nikon could take a new direction...

 

[Fraser]

If it is true and cheaper than a Leica M it will surely affect Leica sales.