taking a chance on an UG Nikon F

yossarian123

yossarian123

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I was browsing the KEH site late last night (as I am wont to do from time to time), occasionally I'll go fishing for particular cameras that I've had on my mind. This time I thought I'd see what their selection was for a black Nikon F with original unmetered prism (I already have the chrome). Usually those are pretty expensive, understandably so given that they're one of the best looking and handling cameras ever made (IMO). Turns out they only had one black F (64XX serial) with an original prism, but it was in UG condtion, and it was $250. So I said what the heck and bought it, $250 is on the low end for a black F. In my experience a KEH UG grade camera is totally usable. Besides, an UG F is (paradoxically) pretty lovely, it wears beautifully. So now i'm anxiously waiting for the Friday UPS delivery, keeping my fingers crossed.
 
If you're looking for an "ugly" camera that maybe even looks prettier than one in perfect condition, that would certainly be a black paint Nikon F, in my opinion. Likewise for the older black-paint M Leicas.

If it works, you just can't lose on this.
 
I hope you find a gem when the package arrives, worn but functional is just fine. I'd check out the prism carefully as there could be separation/cracks that can get worse over time and cause real problems.

Good luck!

Kent
 
Worth a shot. A few months ago, I got a black Olympus OM-2s in UG grade. Brass showing, especially around the neck strap lugs, but works great. I like the brassing.
 
I bought a bargain grade F2 body only one time that was functional but the counter wouldn't work and the meter circuits were toast plus it needed new seals...but still worth every penny of the $70 price...I imagine you'll do ok...you'll own one of the most indestructible rigs ever made...
 
Contarama said:
I bought a bargain grade F2 body only one time that was functional but the counter wouldn't work and the meter circuits were toast plus it needed new seals...but still worth every penny of the $70 price...I imagine you'll do ok...you'll own one of the most indestructible rigs ever made...
Click to expand...

That sounds a lot worse than bargain....
 
I don't know how but I got my Ebay black 'F' for less than $250 and it turned out to be a great camera. Works perfectly, lots of brassing, and the patina of 48 years. Built to last!!


Steve
 
yossarian123 said:
That sounds a lot worse than bargain....
Click to expand...

They had it listed as bargain grade...it also has a pretty ugly dent on one corner where the film counter is...I was somewhat dissappointed but I figured what the heck it was only 70 bucks and like I said it shoots like a charm...who needs a meter and a film counter anyway??? :)
 
I received it today, it looks pretty ugly which is my favorite look for a black F. The prism has a bit of a crack in it, doesn't effect the VF, and the shutter sounds pretty accurate. Its definitely a keeper.


Untitled by SL_Photos, on Flickr
 
it seems pretty good mechanically. The film counter seems a little erratic, it took more than 5-6 frames before it started moving. But now it seems to be working fine. I'm working my way through a roll of Fomapan 400, we'll see how it goes.
 
To me it doesn't look ugly, it has character. Any Nikon F chrome or black are great at taking photos. Also non AI lenses are very affordable. A CLA will return it to proper working order. All Nikon F's look fantastic new or used. Enjoy owning and using it, you will never regret buying it.
 
I have a beater chrome F. The only I can imagine being better is a black paint. Of course, meter less prism is a must.
 
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