Thanks for all the nice comments, everyone. When I got my first Nikkormat, I did a lot of research ahead of the purchase. I'd had an M42 system that I got tired of the amount of effort it took to change lenses, switched to a rangefinder (Vitessa L, another one I wish I had back), then back to an SLR.
I wanted lens interchangeability, a decent range of lenses and accessories, and good build quality. The Nikon system fit the bill (the F2 had just come out a year before), but the Nikkormat was what I could afford on a Navy man's budget. I did opt for the 50/1.4, and the newer FTn instead of the FT, so that meant getting all my meals for the next month on board. It was almost a months pay, but worth it to me.
It really came in handy on the last ship I was stationed, as the temporary duty Photographers Mate was always asking for my assistance when he had to document shipboard events. I got to photograph Soviet ships anchored off Socotra Island, and our passage through the Suez Canal utilizing some of his lenses. Great experience that would come in handy down the years.
So while owning a Nikon was not my first attempt at being serious about photography, it was my first shot at understanding how primo gear can affect the outcome in more ways than one.
I can't say I'm totally infatuated with everything Nikon puts out, but what I do like, I like a lot. When I was shooting the FTn the other day, it just felt like the old days, when everything was new to me, and I was still experimenting with different styles and subjects. It's sort of like being reunited with your first good car, or that really nice girlfriend that got away for one reason or another.
I know everyone has their preference in gear, so I'm not going to tout my stuff over what someone else uses. It just works for me, and there is a lot of good gear out there. I know, there's a pile of it on the table behind me ready for sale. I'm just going back to what got me this far.
PF
