The Aero-Nikkor 18 cm F4.5 lens is a vintage camera lens that was introduced by Nikon in the year 1933. It is a manual focus lens designed for use with film cameras, specifically aerial photography cameras. This lens was primarily used in the field of aviation and was known for its exceptional image quality and precision.
**Features and Specifications**
The Aero-Nikkor 18 cm F4.5 lens was highly regarded for its advanced optics and robust construction. With a focal length of 18 cm and a fast aperture of F4.5, it allowed photographers to capture sharp and detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions.
Designed with an all-metal body, this lens was built to withstand the rigors of aerial photography. It featured a heavy-duty focus ring that allowed for smooth and precise focusing adjustments. The lens also had an aperture ring, which allowed photographers to control the amount of light entering the camera.
One notable feature of the Aero-Nikkor 18 cm F4.5 lens was its ability to be used with interchangeable lens mounts, allowing it to be adapted to various camera systems of the time. This made it a versatile choice for photographers working with different camera models.
**Performance and Image Quality**
The Aero-Nikkor 18 cm F4.5 lens was known for its outstanding performance and image quality. Its advanced optical design ensured minimal distortion and chromatic aberration, resulting in sharp and well-defined images.
The lens produced images with beautiful contrast and rich tonal gradation. It was particularly well-suited for capturing detailed landscapes and aerial shots, where the ability to render fine details was of utmost importance. The fast aperture of F4.5 also allowed for selective focus and pleasing bokeh, adding depth to the images.
**Availability and Pricing**
As a vintage lens, the Aero-Nikkor 18 cm F4.5 is no longer in production and can be found in the used camera equipment market or through specialty vintage camera dealers. Due to its rarity and historical significance, the lens can command a higher price among collectors and enthusiasts.
When it was first released in 1933, the Aero-Nikkor 18 cm F4.5 lens was priced at around X dollars. However, the current market value may vary depending on the lens’s condition, rarity, and demand among collectors.
**Conclusion**
The Aero-Nikkor 18 cm F4.5 lens holds a special place in the history of camera equipment. Its exceptional performance, robust construction, and versatile design made it a popular choice for aerial photographers in the early 1930s. Today, it remains a sought-after collector’s item and a testament to Nikon’s commitment to quality and innovation in the field of optics.
