Can I Use a Vintage Nikkor-S MF 50mm F1.4 Lens on a Nikon DSLR D810?

When it comes to vintage lenses and modern cameras, compatibility often becomes a topic of interest for photography enthusiasts. One such question that frequently arises is whether a vintage Nikkor-S MF 50mm F1.4 lens can be used on a Nikon DSLR D810. In this article, we will explore the compatibility issues and potential solutions, offering insights for anyone looking to dive into the world of vintage glass.

General Compatibility and Considerations

While your Nikkor f/1.2 lens works seamlessly with various Nikon bodies, the Nikkor-S MF 50mm F1.4 lens is a different story. To understand the limitations, it's essential to know that vintage lenses, specifically those from the pre-AI era (around 1959-1977), are not universally compatible with modern Nikon cameras like the D810. This primarily stems from the mechanical design differences between these lenses and the modern camera bodies.

Compatibility and Mechanical Interference

Nikon introduced the Automatic Index (AI) system in 1977, which revolutionized lens compatibility. The AI system allowed for automatic aperture adjustment and metering coupling, which was a significant step forward in making vintage lenses compatible with modern cameras. The Nikkor-S MF 50mm F1.4 lens, being a pre-AI lens, does not have an aperture control ring that aligns with the camera's AI system. As a result, the Nikkor-S lens will not work on the D810 or other modern Nikon DSLRs equipped with full AI systems.

The manual, which is a valuable resource for photographers, clearly states the incompatibility issue. It mentions that there is a mechanical interference issue at the lens mount. Additionally, the metering coupling lever of the D810 is designed to interact with the AI system, and a non-AI lens like the Nikkor-S MF 50mm F1.4 can cause damage by crushing the metering coupling lever.

Alternative Solutions

While the original Nikkor-S MF 50mm F1.4 lens cannot be used on the D810, there are alternative solutions for photographers who desire the unique characteristics of this vintage lens without compromising on modern camera features:

Manual Aperature Adjustment: You can use a clip-on aperture ring adapter, which allows you to control the aperture manually even on non-AI lenses. While this solution adds an extra step, it ensures that your vintage lens remains functional and compatible with your modern camera. Use an AI Lens: Consider getting an AI Nikon lens, such as the Nikkor 50mm f/1.2, which will work seamlessly with your D810. AI lenses are designed to work with the D810's AI system, ensuring both aperture control and metering.

For those who prefer the manual experience, controlling the aperture and focusing manually, the Nikkor f/1.2 lens is a great choice, especially if you love shallow depth of field (bokeh) and general photography. The training required for manual focus can be challenging at first, but mastering it can reward you with exceptional results.

Conclusion

While the Nikkor-S MF 50mm F1.4 lens cannot be used directly on the Nikon D810 due to mechanical incompatibilities, there are ways to still make use of the lens. Whether through the use of an adapter or switching to an AI lens, photographers can enjoy the benefits of vintage glass without sacrificing modern camera features. Stay tuned for more articles on lens compatibility and photography techniques!