Repair of Nikon 5.8cm F1.4 lens

[Tim Murphy]

Dear Board,

This lens was my Grandfather's. It was purchased in the very early 1960's when he bought a Nikon F.

Outward appearance is typical of a lens that was used extensively though the 60's and 70's recording just about everything the grandchildren did. It is still operating at 100% with unmarked glass with one exception.

The bottom most element has a sheen of oil on it most likely from the aperture blades. I would like to get the lens repaired. It is not something I wish to attempt on my own despite the You-tube videos. The lens has great sentimental value to me and I don't want to damage it further trying to save a couple of $'s.

Can anyone give me an approximate cost for the repair? I am considering spending $ 100.00 - $ 150.00 for the repair. It that a reasonable cost estimate? Can you also recommend a reputable repair shop for the job. A shop in the NE USA would be preferable though I will consider other areas of the country. I don't want to send it overseas.

Regards,

Tim Murphy
Harrisburg, PA 🙂

 

[Vickko]

hi
I repaired one of these lenses. One of the inner elements needed to be re-cemented; the optical cement had separated.

No idea how much it would cost to clean off haze.

But it was a very straight-forward lens to work on.

Maybe start here: http://www.focalpointlens.com/

Vick

 

[Timmyjoe]

You might also want to talk with Authorized Photo Service in Morton Grove, IL (Just north of Chicago). They were an authorized Nikon service center for decades and work on many of the older cameras and lenses.

Authorized Photo Service

 

[Fixcinater]

You may be seeing oil, you may be seeing separation. I've got two right now that both are totally separated internally due to the glue breaking down between elements.

Are the aperture blades oily?

Worth cleaning up, it's a very nice lens when all is well. If it is just the rear element, that is quite easy and quick to get to for clean up.