Nikon F2 Review

Overall Rating

Excellent design.

Limited repairability.

I used a Nikon F2 35mm SLR camera in the early 80s and never enjoyed making pictures so much as with that camera. Unfortunately, a previous owner had allowed it to take a swim, and when it jammed, the repairman declared it a rusted loss. I kept the screen and the DP-1 against the day another F2 came my way and used an FE and the FT2 I'd had for a decade. After some years of neglect, I picked up a Retina IIa (almost got a digicam) just for kicks and had so much fun I started shooting a lot, with that, the Nikons and a Rolliflex. Glad I didn't sell that stuff!
This week, I finally found an F2-sans-finder at a good price in great condition. And what a fabulous machine it is. So smooth and efficient. I can see the whole screen without smashing my glasses into my face. It's bright, too, with clearer split/multiprism aids. 100% coverage. Ratcheted film advance! Smooth shutter release. The heavy weight helps two ways: it dampens shutter/mirror movement so there is less camera shake and you don't have to hold it so tightly - particularly helpful when holding it vertically; it puts more tug on the strap so it doesn't keep falling off your shoulder. It's cold here and because of little ways they designed the film advance lever, the speed dial and the aperture ring, I could use the thing all afternoon without removing my gloves, except to change film.
All together, the F2 is much more fun to use than my other Nikons of similar vintage. I remember now why I enjoyed my first one so much and took so many good pictures with it. Sure, it's the lens that matters most, but the ergonomics are key as well. Some of this stuff is a bit intangible, governed by individual taste and what you get used to using, but how a camera fits it's owner is very important to the results one will get with it.
Should you get one? Well, if like me, you already have a bunch of Nikkors, yes, at least check one out. If you are working backwards into vintage SLRs, there are a lot to choose from and you can find lower prices and great lenses from other makes. (I thought the OM-1s were so cool, and Pentax made two great, under appreciated systems.) But the F2s were probably the best made machines of all and I suspect they'll hold up better than other 30 year old cameras in similar condition. And, a joy to use. In excellent shape, $300 US with DP-1 finder and no lens is about the most it should cost and that is not too much considering what you are buying. Without finder, under $200.
I think Mr. Gandy at Camera Quest has a fair overview of the various Nikons and would start there to choose my first or decide on one that is availible. I would only add, don't neglect the FTN, FT2 - great cameras, great bargains.
February 2002