Nikon FTZIII with AF Motor - Come on Nikon!!

It's time for Nikon to launch the FTZIII with built in AF motor to support AF-D and screw drive lenses.
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[@mattgranger]

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[@ericxin-lp7jd]

totally agree with you about the FTZIII with AF Motor. I bought the D780 to experience the af-d lenses with "mirrorless focus". man I wish I could autofocus 85 f1.4d 105dc, 135dc, 180d and 200f4 micro on my Z8. Those are unique lenses that will always in my collection.

[@mattgranger]

🤞 hopefully soon mate

[@eric00214]

@@mattgranger Would be great for people that have kept those lenses.

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

@@eric00214 I was wondering which AF-D lenses would really benefit from an FTZIII with an AF motor. I only came up with four, all ones you listed. I left out the 85mm or 50mm d lenses. I would say the 200 f/4 micro, 105 DC, and 135 DC work better as manual focus lenses on Z cameras than they did as autofocus lenses on DSLRs. At least in my usage.

[@WarriorsPhoto]

@@UnconventionalReasoningDo you prefer manual focus? 😮❤😮

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

@@WarriorsPhoto I definitely prefer a lot of manual focus lenses, for the same reason that I prefer primes: they are designed to have specific rendering characteristics. Current autofocus lenses, as well as most zooms, tend to be designed for 'mass market clinical sterility'. They then get promoted using AF speed, sharpness, and bokeh balls. Manual focus primes can be more unique, since a 'generic' manual focus lens would often lose to an autofocus lens.

[@smallbatchsessions6892]

The lenses of that screw drive era had leaded glass and low element count for great microcontrast. Also that was the pinnacle of the Nikon lenses with the low element count. Some of the best optical formulas Nikon had . Very beautiful rendering. We DO need to be able shoot every Nikkor lens going back to 1959. This is one of the reasons so many Nikon shooters have stuck to Nikon .

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

Yes, but do we need to use every Nikkor lens in fully automatic mode?

[@yxx_chris_xxy]

@@UnconventionalReasoning No, just those that have AF printed on them. Though it is now possible to make ALL of them autofocus, as the Techart TZM-2 adaptor does.

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

@@yxx_chris_xxy With internal-focusing lenses, the TZM-2 adapter focuses in a different way than the lens is designed to focus.

[@yxx_chris_xxy]

@@UnconventionalReasoning Not a problem for the vast majority of vintage primes.

[@yxx_chris_xxy]

@@UnconventionalReasoning But true, I wasn't correct in speaking of *ALL* lenses.

[@jsiminski]

Yes! The screwdriver is what still keeps me in the D850 realm. The same goes for AI-S and AI lens support.

[@jacquesnel8384]

Totally agree with you ☝️

[@vueport99]

My 85/1.4 needs FTZiii Yesterday!

[@tmewborn1]

Agree!!

[@danieljohnson7891]

I have MANY AF-D and MF Nikon lenses that I use only on my 2 remaining DSLRs. Lenses like the 105 f2 DC, 135 f2 DC and 180 f2.8D are solid performers and I believe would deliver stunning performance on the Z Bodies. I agree that a FTZ Adapter with a built-in AF Motor is long overdue. I am also ready for one to be released. I'd be willing to pay a premium for the Adapter so I could take my AF-D lenses out of hiding and put them to work again.

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

Try them as manual focus lenses. It's a fun, more engaging experience!

[@lyndonarden-wong3752]

This is spot on. We need this

[@UKEdward]

In addition to the focus motor, they could add in an aperture ring.

[@colinmclean1300]

I switched over to Z, 2 months ago. Got my z7ii and 4 of z lenses w ftz ii for my f lenses. I have only 1 screw driver lens which is my Nikon macro 200mm. While not needing Auto focus for macro, Auto focus is best for every thing else with the lens. I was ignorant to Auto focus motor being in the body and really only learned this short coming 2 months ago. Yes I would definitely get an ftziii if it supported a motor and as others have commented already, how the hell was this left out from the beginning. Imo, this was a serious oversight from Nikon and really not a complicated item to manufacture and I do believe Nikon shot them selves in the foot as there are many users with many of these lenses on hand. I agree w you Matt "come on Nikon"

[@AF8Images]

Great video Matt. One of the things that Nikon has (that many competitors can't replicate) is their back catalogue of lenses based on the F-mount. Bringing those into play is a potential competetive advantage. While I like the Z-lenses, I still have an F-mount 70-200 f2.8 as for this lens I don't need the 'silence' of the Z-lenses👍

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

The F-munt 70-200mm f/2.8 is an AF-S lens which works great with the FTZ/FTZII adapter. Do you mean the older 80-200mm f/2.8 f/2.8 AF-D lens?

[@WarriorsPhoto]

Good point and I know that's a great lens. 🎉

[@Nick_Parau]

What many competitors don't have a back catalogue? Canon has the in built motor in lenses since '87, with the L lenses. Sony, has the Minolta Alpha mount since '85 and an amazing catalogue. Not to mention sony has 5 adapters, 3 of them with screw motors, to use all the lenses.

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

@@Nick_Parau Yes, Sony has those adapters. How many people use them? Canon made a different decision than Nikon in the 1980s about their AF lenses, so they only needed to make an EF-to-RF adapter for both current and past EF lenses.

[@Nick_Parau]

@@UnconventionalReasoning like i replied in a different comment, these adapters are always a buffer for transitioning to the mirrorless lenses. As much as they are useful, you will always be remembered that the new ones will be faster and overall work better. I have 3 Sony Adapters, 2 of them with screw coupling and are there to use the 20+ Minolta and Sony lenses that I have. Usually Sony users get the LA-EA5 if they have some higher end lenses, like the Zeiss 50 1.4, 85 1.4, 135 1.8, 135 2.8 STF, and some other great lenses that are screw driven, but in most cases from the people I know, they used the adapters for 1-2 years until they had the money to replace the old A mount lenses with E/FE ones.

[@jaimeduncan6167]

The guides are a super valuable resource, you pay once and they keep getting better. They also continue to add new cameras. It's amazing.

[@mynameisben123]

Which guides?

[@mattgranger]

Glad you enjoy them Jaime!

[@glenhar1225]

Way overdue. Should have been released at the beginning, they would have sold far more new bodies. This was a glaring marketing error.

[@chromaticvisuelle]

Probably impossible to make.

[@ngocquangpham2387]

​@@chromaticvisuellenah sony already made the A mount to E mount adapter with AF motor so its completely possable

[@shaynethomas8880]

One of those cases where they fell victim to corporate brain. "If our old stuff works so well then they won't buy our new stuff". When that couldn't be further from the truth

[@WarriorsPhoto]

I haven't used Nikon enough for this to be important. But when I switched from Sony DSLR/DST to mirrorless. That adapter was extremely valuable for us to create videos and make money 💵 💰! I hope Nikon hears this message. 😮😅😮

[@stevenrobinsonpictures]

Glad you made this video. Fully support this endevour also, lots of cool AFD glass out there I want to use on a Z 8 with AF.

[@jorgepinogarciadelasbayonas]

I think retro design cameras are attractive for the younger generations, too. That is the reason why the FUJI X-T series have been attractive to younger people as well as the Nikon Zfc.

[@PrimeZoom10]

I agree, Nikon should apply an auto focus motor to an FTZ III (if they ever design a new adapter). The motor should have been built into the FTZ II. There are so many vintage D lenses that will really benefit.

[@AshishTamhane]

Nikon will probably be able to sell more Z system cameras if they get the adapter with the autofocus motor. I personally would like to shift to the Z system but currently am sitting on a whole bunch of AF-D lenses. I shoot just as a hobby and getting new Z lenses is not financially viable for me. That said I would really like to get a Z camera body.

[@randychestnut6591]

Brilliant suggestion, Matt. Thank you. I have an old Nikkor 60 D f 2.8 Macro that I love. It made a decent portrait lens on my old D7100 also. Here's another reason Nikon should come out with this new adapter. The old lenses look great with their retro vibe, and one reason Nikon customers are excited about the new ZF is because they love the retro look of the camera. Its brilliant! I hope they do it.

[@robertleidner9703]

That 60mm is amazing! I’ve almost bought a old D810 just for that one. The flare it gets is amazing

[@thomasberner6164]

Do You really will pay 350$ to adapt this beloved lens? Maybe it’s 399$ or whatever.

[@randychestnut6591]

Since when did logic apply to photography? I am assuming that this theoretical new adapter will work with all f-mount glass. Since I have not yet made the leap into mirrorless and have no adapter today, I would think I would need an adapter, especially at the beginning, so why not this one that would offer more utility? I am hoping the new retro Zf is worth the leap for me. I'm hoping for more than 24 mp.

[@robertleidner9703]

@@thomasberner6164 I just spent $3,000 on an 85 1.2. I'll spend what I need to get the look I want with the system I have. Plus tons of other great D lenses I'd use for a certain look.

[@youngalwyn1124]

Even if it were possible to design and mass produce an FTZ3 adapter with the ability to autofocus the legacy “screw drive” lenses, the price of such an adapter at retail is likely to be jaw-dropping. How many photographers would be willing to pay $795, $895, or even more for a product with that capability?

[@smallbatchsessions6892]

That coupling meter lever is for ai and ais lenses not for non ai. Non ai lenses can break that lever they are cut out like the ai lenses for that lever . Like the Nikon fe that lever can flip up out of the way. The coupler for non ai is the little tab that was on top of the lens.

[@hectorcorderoe]

I think the DF, and also the ZFc and the coming soon ZF are nostalgic cameras, ttryng to bring some happy past to the minds. If so, an FTZiii adapter with screwdriver for AF and AF-D lenses would be magnificent! It is like Nikon is releasing an entrie new lineup of vintage rendering lenses!. but keep in mind that thecnically there are challenges, so do not expect miracles. The most obvious could be focusing speed, and probably only work AF-S, and probably not tracking.... and YES I Will buy one inmediately for my beloved AF-D lenses (105DC and 180)

[@JRodPhotoArt]

I totally agree about a auto focus FTZ adapter, we love our gadgets and old lenses!!!!

[@tamedprocess4415]

I agree Matt, I'm a Fujifilm shooter but I love old Nikon AF-D lenses. The results I get out of the old 80-200 f2.8 are already great and I have no need to upgrade it. If I could adapt it to Nikon Z with an AF adapter I'd probably switch to Nikon Z.

[@citizencane3492]

I sit squarely in the group that have a significant investment in AF-D/screw drive lenses that can only be used as manual focus on Z mirrorless bodies with the present FTZ II. Many lenses, such as my AF DC-Nikkor 135mm f/2 D, have no equivalent in the preset Z lens line up. I completely understand that the newer Z lenses are generally superior in most ways. Nonetheless, the inability to make use of a bunch of glass I have collected over 24 years since I moved from a Minolta XD-11 to an Nikon F-100 in 1999 is surely holding me back from adopting the Z system. Bringing out an FTZ III as you describe would change that. I would love to move to a Z8 which would certainly be followed by collecting Z lenses that don’t exist in the old F mount system such as the 50mm f/1.2 S, the 85mm f/1.2 S, and the 800mm f/6.3 VR S. You are absolutely correct that Nikon are presently limiting adoption by not addressing this portion of the market.

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

Using manual focus on a lens like the 135mm f/2D seemed as effective as auto focus on a DSLR, at least for me. Moving the focus point to the subject's eye and setting the AF-On button to do a 200% zoom is one way to do it. The AF confirmation may also occur with the AF box changing color, that may depend on the specific lens. The DC lenses have such slow AF already that little seems to be lost.

[@IanMacFarlane-sb7lj]

Thanks for this. I still have the AF DC 105 is the only f mount lens I have kept. I lived the colour of this Lens and the f 2.0 was a draw as well.

[@karajohn1234]

Yeah, totally agree. Without this adapter nothing stops me from moving to sony and adapt my af motor lenses there, will make no difference. I'm loyal to Nikon from the beginning of my career with a huge collection of lenses and cameras. Don't disappoint me Nikon.

[@tannerjagim4241]

I could see it coming out with a full frame ZF if the whole idea is retro it might be an adaptor for the older lenses

[@Blitz_Shorts]

If FTZ with AF motor is coming soon , all those AF-D , AF, lenses are going to get expensive, now that they will have a new life , so consider buying them while they are cheap as never. something like Nikkor 300mm f/2.8 IF ED or Nikkor 135mm f/2D would be great to be revived.

[@kaminobatto]

I totally agree. The omission of the screwdriver focus mechanism from the old one was puzzling enough in the first place, and before the 2nd version of the adapter was launched they had a chance to add this functionality but didn't anyway. Unfortunately, I don't have faith that they will ever release this adapter, but as you said, they now have a third chance if they're really coming up with a new adapter accompanying the potential Z f body. Weird thing is that my 17-35mm F2.8 D lens works perfectly fine with the 1st generation FTZ although it shouldn't be able to focus without the screwdriver motor, but yet somehow it does!

[@jasoncheng4307]

17-35mm F2.8D lens equipped with SWM, so autofocus works as Nikkor G lens do while using FTZ.

[@briansmith8507]

Can I just say I love the thumbnail graphic of the FTZ with a car engine strapped to it 😂

[@pond480]

Totally concur with you. I'm glad you came to Thailand. I hope you receive favorable treatment in return.

[@yusufisak]

yes please. such an adapter is a no-brainer! In fact the original ftz should've had a built-in AF motor.

[@mogensketelsen7280]

A very good suggestion, Matt - thanks for bringing this up.

[@richardyuen5786]

Nikon FTZIII with AF will be fantastic, and I'll probably be one of the first to put an order in. I have a couple of non-AF older glass that I would like to keep and use. Good video Matt.

[@soarindragon603]

This guy is talking out his arse. There's no announcement an FTZ III is even in the works.

[@richardyuen5786]

@@soarindragon603 Nobody said there is an announcement. It's something that we wish, that's all. That is what Matt was talking about.

[@soarindragon603]

@@richardyuen5786 I see. Yes, an ftz adaptor with an af motor would be fantastic. Hopefully Viltrox will make one.

[@sharonwallacephoto]

Yes! Way over due! I have a lot of AF- D lenses, a 50 F1.2 MF, and I love my 105 F2 DC & 135 F2 DC… I held out from purchasing the mirrorless system for this reason. I did finally cave a month ago and purchased a Z8. I am hanging on to my D810 & my F100 to use my other non compatible lenses. I just have to say though that I am over the moon with the performance of my all time favorite lens the Nikkor 200 F2 with the FTZ2 adaptor. I was soooo fearful! I anxiously await an adapter for my other favorite lenses!!!😅

[@HI2LIFE]

AGREE 100% with the ideal FTZIII With a motor.This would be a dream as I have a couple Nikon D lenses that I'll never sell as they are FANTASTIC! One of them being the Nikon 180mm f/2.8 AF/D.

[@2kool4myskool]

As a Sony shooter the release of their latest LA-EA5 adapter has brought new life to my extensive screw driven range of Sony/Minolta A mount lenses going back over 40 years, these lenses many prized for their classic Minolta colours work incredibly well with the latest a6700 and A7RV cameras the auto focusing is amazing, i love my A mount cameras but using the latest auto focus detection on these new cameras makes me love Sony and Minolta even more.

[@joanneabramson2645]

What does the Sony adaptor cost?

[@slr7075]

The MKIII FTZ adapter with screw drive will make me finally switch to Z mount. I can have autofocus with great legendary lenses like the 300mm f4 AF ED, 55mm f2.8 AF Micro and 180mm f2.8 AFD lens on Z cameras!

[@alexsouthpb55]

YES! I agree - you can increase your base by keeping us in the Nikon ecosystem and be in a position to gradually upgrade to the newer, better glass. Otherwise, I may decide to stay with what I currently have or will opt to jump ship since I now have to buy new lenses anyways.

[@mark35806]

Best idea I’ve heard in a long time, I hope Nikon is listening!

[@RiceNoodlestw]

totally agree. think of how much fun it would be to have a ZF with the d glass. using the screw drive and having a aperture ring too. id buy 2

[@shinnguyen1]

Megadap tz works for all ai non ai lense and screwdrive system. It has its limitation but my nikkor noct 58mm 1.2 has auto focus now

[@lyndonarden-wong3752]

Nikon D4 and d7100 shooter here. Love my d series lenses. Mirrorless is tempting, especially features such as ibis, focus peaking and improved autofocus, but this lens compatibility issue is a major sticking point with me.

[@lutzboehnke7829]

Very good suggestion. I would also very much like to be able to use my old AF-D lenses, especially the 85mm f1.4, with my Nikon Z8 or the Z7ii.

[@MrRudyc]

At least you held on to your D lens. I sold many of mine and have cried ever since 😢

[@ian-nz-2000]

I have a screwdriver 80-200 f2.8 which while optically a match for the modern lenses, it's focussing is somewhat slow even on my D750. This was always the Achilles' heel of this system and cost Nikon dearly in the day. I enjoy photographing fast moving subjects (my greyhounds) and the Z 70-200 (on a Z8) is in a different league for autofocus performance. I can certainly see that there would be a demand for portraiture and landscape!

[@jamesoliver6625]

I have both the 80-200 2.8D and the 70-200 f4 G. I use the 80-200 when I'm by myself and working slow. The 70-200 f4 is a NICE lens with VR (the good version), about 2/3 the weight and half or less the price. I shoot youth sports and sports mechanics video (pitching and batting mostly) with it and in that context is fine. It should do you proud for your greyhounds.

[@jaimeduncan6167]

I see your points, and agree, having myself a nice lens that I will love to use. To underscore what you say, we did not need a flagship body to use D lenses, for example. Nobody will call the D7200 or the D600/610 a flagship model and they did have the motor. I will say even if they can't do it without some compromises, like size, or something else, they could use a different name for it. Another less appealing option will be to make it exclusive to the Zf. I won't be happy but it will be better than nothing, and if the Zf is low costs (say 24MP class) a manageable compromise.

[@skinosensei]

Exclusive = Obsolete The purpose of getting an FTZ III is compatibility.

[@ChaseMoreLight]

Really happy Nikon is focusing on new cameras and new lenses. Rather than focusing their efforts on old gear. We’re all waiting for a 35mm 1.2

[@fleemwings207]

A very good suggestion, Matt - thanks for bringing this up. The Nikon F mount is historical and has showed that Nikon is a company with foresight. Although we need to move on as time goes by, Nikon's proud tradition would live on in the Z system if this FTZ suggestion was taken up. Lets see if Nikon listens...

[@michaelcoll433]

Well said. I was a Nikon and Canon user back in my early film days, using different lenses with each body. I moved to just Nikon when Canon started screwing with the mount and leaving everything behind. I have not moved to Z solely because I would have to replace so many lenses. I ain't rich. I am even considering Sony, but such an adapter with a ZF, would steer me back to Nikon.

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

Many of those lenses work great on Z bodies when manually focusing.

[@michaelcoll433]

@@UnconventionalReasoning true. I even have an adapter that allows me to put FD lenses on my Nikon. Also manual focus. :)

[@Nick_Parau]

Sony has 5 adapters to Minolta Alpha/Sony A, 3 of them screw driven, just a fyi.

[@JohnTimko-v8m]

Totally agree. I’d love to use my 200mm F4 micro nikkor (the best bug lens ever) 135 DC and others on my Z9

[@emilhach6264]

I enjoy using manual glass with autofocus provided by the Techart TZM-02 on my Z8. I do the same thing with my A7IV via LM-EA9. An FTZIII with AF motor would be a welcome addition to my setup. Some folks actually believe that their manual focusing skills trump the computer in the camera... Not even close. I own this tech. It can do wonders on Sony and works respectably on Nikon and allows me to use a vast manual glass collection in place of modern, lifeless lenses that all seem to have the same sterile rendering.

[@TheBurzhuy]

I have one of those Sony adapters with screwdriver motor, I have bought it to have access to A-mount lenses, I have several of them, also A-mount lenses seem to be cheaper option, they are performing not so well comparing with current generation but the price is very important for hobbyists. Sony made the adapter really compact in LA-EA5 version, first version LA-EA4 though had similar bump with motor and autofocus module which is rudimental. I believe Nikon is capable of making such adapter too

[@landyshserebristyy2493]

Oh yeah! This is to complete the collection of Nikon tombstones!

[@alan.macrae]

If I were a betting man, I wouldn't bet on an FTZ III as described. In fact, I think we've see all the FTZs we're going to see. As a longtime Nikon shooter (

[@jamesoliver6625]

My attitude is flipped. The fact that they haven't made this adaptor is forcing me to be fine with my 780/850 kit but has let me start looking toward the GFX stuff. The only thing that has interrupted that is I ran into a very nice set of the 70-180 Micro along with both the 5T and 6T close up doublets. That's a lens set I will never part with. I do product and that is a very handy bit of kit.

[@jimmyfoo3058]

I'm all in if the FTZIII with AF motor materialize. I held back when Nikon became the last major brand that pushed out autofocus camera because I was using many manual prime lens at that time. Over the years, Nikon has constantly delivered it's promise of backward compatibility to old lenses. Since then I invested into AF-D and other screw driven autofocus lenses and have quite a range of favorite ones. I expected when Nikon pushed out their mirrorless, there would be a full solution for the loyal users but was greatly disappointed that Nikon failed to reward their loyal users with full backward compatibility for autofocus. I am at that point of choosing between Sony or Canon to fulfill my mirrorless needs unless Nikon decides that it's time to make good of their promise for backward compatibility. I may be one but I believe there are thousands or tens of thousands and maybe even hundreds of thousands in the same situation as myself. Nikon, you'll be losing these brand loyal customers that have stayed with you over the decades. Are you ready for that loss?

[@martyntorode7126]

I think that Nikon have avoided this for two reasons, firstly Z is about moving forward, setting new standards in image quality, though they have provided incredible backward compatibility as it is. Second, I suspect due to mechanical inefficiencies it would hit the batteries harder and we all know how that would be received.

[@mattgranger]

Maybe.. but why release an FTZ adapter at all?

[@Nick_Parau]

@@mattgranger just to help transitioning to the newer lenses. Sony never meant for their adapters to be a long lasting solution to use old lenses on mirrorless, just a patch for a 1-2 years wait of gathering the money for the E/FE versions to switch.

[@martyntorode7126]

@@mattgranger Nikon couldn't hit the ground running with a fully fleshed out lens range so backward compatibility was essential. Fast forward to today and whilst you can still argue that there are gaps in the Z lens range most peoples needs are well covered, there is less need than ever for an adapter.

[@alexshdvideo]

FTZ III motorized adapter would green light my buying a ZF to my line up. (maybe Sunset Orange body) I have about a dozen AF D lenses. not to mention all my manual focus lenses.. 30+. And my Lensbaby lenses.. another 20+. I did pick up a Z30 just to get my toes wet with Nikon mirrorless, and yes, even in the entry level body, there is a lot to like.

[@jimcook3882]

XLNT video and I really hope NIKON will hear you. I was lusting after the Zf body and FTZ II adaptor, until it became fact that my gorgeous D Nikkors would not be auto focus.... So, NO Zf body for me Thanks again!

[@bernie_xj]

Thanks for this Matt. I myself packed my holy trinity AF-D 2.8 zoom-lenses away together a D750-body after writing to Nikon at least twice if Nikon intends to bring out an FTZ-adapter with screw-drive motor to support these lenses. The answer I got in 2018 and 2020 was, it's not on Nikons roadmap... When I read about the Zf coming out, I thought Nikon going retro would have reconsidered but they seem to believe a half way solution by offering KI-based object detection together with manual focus might be sufficient... Well I am uncertain since I actually moved to Fujifilm X-H1 & X-E3 together with a bunch Fuji's excellent lenses and I don't miss anything. So now the call is compact X-T5, 40MP APS-C vs Nikon Zf with FTZ + heavy full metal AF-D full frame. Most likely I will be facing final divorce...

[@garymc8956]

Of course!

[@waveland]

It’s a great Matt. Hopefully someone back at the home office has been reading your mind.

[@andrear9500]

Absolutely right. I have a 500mm awaiting that

[@aaloaalo]

Perfect timing whold be on releasing the mk iii on z 6 & 7 with the new af system, not the ZF

[@carlmcneill1139]

I don't have any screw drive lenses but I would like to have that option. You never know when you'll come across a find at a yard sale. I had a chance to buy a Pentax film SLR with 3 lenses for $20 several years ago. That was before I got into photography. I've been kicking myself ever since. Today's Nikon z lenses are sharper and better but they lack character.

[@BowlesImages]

The screwdrive in an FTZ does not have as much use today is it might have had four years ago. I've already sold most of my AF-D lenses. If they were to produce such an item, it's probably going to cost $600 or so. Given the Z lenses are quite good, the AF-S lenses have been produced for almost 20 years, and the pre-1990 lenses are manual focus any - it's hard to justify creating an adapter or buying one at the price it would take. The reality is it's probably easier to buy or keep a DSLR body for those rare cases where an old lens is preferred. If the economics were really there, someone would likely have already designed a Chinese version. I do still have six manual focus lenses and one remaining AF-D lens, but I'm not a potential buyer. I do think there are some interesting options to take more advantage of the FTZ. For example, how about a drop in filter for the FTZ - especially if it was compatible with the filters on the older Nikon long lenses?

[@PeterRohrer]

The Monster LA-FE2 costs about 450 USD and would allow me to use my Nikon Lenses on Sony mirror-less. Sony LA-EA5 as a comparable product (for old Minolta and Sony AF lenses without build-in AF motor) costs about 250 USD. The older Sony Adapters without built in AF motor are not even sold any longer in my local market. Nikon FTZ II costs about 200 USD. Given the fact that Monster addresses a relatively low volume market and has to finance higher R&D Costs than Nikon (reverse engineering both Sony AND Nikon Mounts), I would be willing to pay 250-300 USD for an FTZ III with built in AF motor. I intend to keep my Nikon D800 for a few more years, and maybe even upgrade to a newer used model (D810 or D850), but once the supply of used DSRL is gone (or mirror-less introduces something I really want), I may as well switch so Sony, If I can't get a decent Nikon Adapter for my old lenses. I also still sit on a stash of old Canon FD which would work on either system, so Nikon should really bring compelling arguments to stay loyal to their brand.

[@loveandprem]

Its a very good suggestion! I have all the possible lenses in f mount and after using z9, i am really struggling to go back to d850. Meaning, i was initially restricted with my f lenses with z cam. Soon I found that my 105 f1.4 isn’t that sharp compared to s 85 f1.8. Lots of noise with frz ii. The moment i could afford to get 85 f1.2 and 700/200 S f2.8, my life is sorted. If ftz iii is coming, i can use my other lenses to their full potential as I won’t have to buy again all the other focal length lenses which I already have! Very good proposal to nikon! Its the right time👍

[@Pawel__M]

A great video. I have more than a dozen F-mount lenses, but nearly half of them are of the old D-type, with a screwdriver. If Nikon releases such an adapter, I may consider buying a Z8 or Z9 (and a bunch of batteries, of course xD). As for now, I will stay with my D750 and D850.

[@Chris_Grossman]

I will buy a mirrorless body when they release an adapter that works with my screw mount lenses. Sony has made one that works with Minolta lenses for years.

[@TheUberSchattenjager]

I have a few legacy lens that I would love to use on the Z9 - please listen, Nikon!

[@JerryWilliam63]

The FTZ-ZF adapter, with full compatibility like the DF and while they are at it, add another with a .67x magnification so that full frame lenses would be represented as intended on the ZF-C.

[@gewglesux]

The DF was 10 years ago? good lord where the time go? I forget how well the DF did...Lovely course !!! i'm going to have a look!! Thanks Matt!!

[@mattgranger]

Yep! End of 2013

[@gewglesux]

Nikon Fan boy here long time!! welll Leica too now... @@mattgranger

[@stefan_becker]

Such an FTZ adapter with af-d support would be especially amazing for the 105mm f2 DC lens because on dslrs it had a tendency to front- or backfocus depending upon the position of the dc control ring. On a mirrorless camera this wouldn't be an issue anymore. That means it would be possible to really use the lens after several decades 😅

[@jorgepinogarciadelasbayonas]

This is like asking Canon to support FD mount lenses or Microsoft to support Windows XP.. For every product that you make you need to instruct customer support / technical support / retailer / waranty refunds / repair stuff. It's not like releasing the adapter and you're done. For such old products it's not going to happen. Buy Voigtländer Z-Mount lenses if you like rretro style.

[@trini938]

Totally agree.

[@vincevinnyp9224]

The Sony adapter went from a 42mm Throat diameter to a 43.6 throat diameter. It's size was all motors. The Nikon goes from 44 to 52 it has no clearance to fit any more motors so would need to get much bigger. It would be possible but if you want access to the lens release and function buttons probably very ugly.

[@timryan894]

I would purchase this adapter immediately

[@markburke6365]

I was looking to buy a Z6ii and wanted to use my AFD lenses , but no, I can not ! so I agree we need the adapter so I can stay true to nikon

[@mkii9110]

very true. I have so many dslr lens from nikon and i haven't been getting new cameras because I dont really want to sell all my old lens and getting news but at right now, if I have to get new cameras. I might as well get sony because i cant use my old lens (some of them at least) with nikon new body anyway. But if the adaptor is there, I'd happy to go with nikon and over time i may end up buying all new zmounts anyway

[@josefmazzeo6628]

I would love if the FTZiii adapter supports a built in motor, but we may have to get the "hump" back. Recently I ordered an AF-S 80-400 lens from KEH and they accidentally sent me the AF-D version of this lens which I may have kept if the FTZii supported AF-D lenses. I had to return the lens but would have loved to use it on the Z6ii. 299 max for an adapter that supports AF-D lenses.

[@AmbercoolPhotography]

Most companies have stopped caring about their legacy products and customers.

[@carstenortlieb5040]

I so much agree! I'd love to use my Tokina /Aginieux 28-80 2.6 with AF. Even, if it's noisy. I'd pay 500 Bucks for it.

[@xavidub]

I would buy one of these adapters just to use the 16mm fisheye

[@jorgepinogarciadelasbayonas]

By the way: Did you know that Nikon AF-S Type G was introduced in 1996. That's already 27 years.

[@3Dogs1CatandMore]

The photographer/hobbyist side of me wants to have an FTZ with AF motor. The engineer side of me realize that complexity and the marketable size/weight constrains may render this product design not palatable from pricing prospective. On a related note, which lenses would you be interested using "FTZ-D" to adapt to Z-mount (or rather you wouldn't recommend to)? Most of the screw-drive lenses will not have the level of sharpness or flare control most modern lenses have. However, some of the "old-school" lens characteristics are unique/familiar or the performance is quite usable with modern digital sensors. In some cases, lens may only exist as screw drive AF. Personally, I think lenses like 135mm DC, 105mm DC, 55mm f/2.8 AF, 10.5mm fisheye, or 200mm f/4D "Micro" definitely all fall into this category.

[@iversonwhite1]

Great idea. I want also for any new ftz adspter to let me see my f/stop through the lens and in exiif data. My D300, D810, and F6 all do this when using non-cup lens data. I was really disappointed when I found out that my Z9 and ftz2 wouldn't do it.

[@arnoldattard1146]

Makes sense

[@nektariosdroulos1852]

I have seen the potential since day one (I am an engineer). I want the FTZiii to have a ring-type full-size SWM that would drive the lenses as a truck. It should have two options for the battery life of the camera, a "normal" for low energy consumption and good AF speed and a "sport" for the highest AF speed no matter the energy consumption. These two (or more) options would be adjustable through a port or through the camera. A new FTZii costs about 220€ in Greece, I would gladly pay 500€-600€ for such a FTZiii.

[@aaronforward2309]

i have one 50 AF-D f1.8 that would be nice to use again. Although for another $250 I would likely buy a Z mount 50 since i only have one lens with screw drive AF.

[@1ppl.1plntpls66]

Yes, Yes, and Yes! Want it mostly for my 300mm f2.8 ED AF. Don't use it much for sports so don't need the blazing autofocus speed one can only get from in-lens motors but would gain ibis & eye-detect from going mirrorless. 105mm f2 DC & 135mm f2 DC owners should especially be clamoring as Nikon sold them and they bought into what Nikon developed what no other lenses do but now are stuck on using them on DSLRs if they need AF. These portrait-based lenses would most benefit from moving to mirrorless for eye-detect.

[@leod1671]

I totally agree. I’m still holding out with my D850 because I di have a few screw drive D lenses that I love. I would pay$300 for such an adapter. Maybe. Third party could release one.

[@jjaylad]

Now that it the Zf is here, your wish is underscored. If you and other bloggers could poll all your subscribers on that, perhaps Nikon's tree could be shaken with the results.

[@lim2001burger]

Definitely would get the ftz iii if it had the af motor, but hopefully its priced the same as the ftz i/ii.

[@pjdilip]

Very nice of you to advocate for us old fogeys😂

[@Ben_Stewart]

I really hope they update the Z50 and Z6ii.

[@JB-ou6fl]

I wish that Nikon would produce an FTZ III that includes support for AF-D and screw drive lenses. I hope to have it to enable autofocus for the 105mm f/2 D lens on my Z6 camera.

[@longrider9551]

Matt no ot a Nikon user but I would buy a Nikon body if I could use vintage Nikon glass

[@69mrwolf69]

They could raise the price to compensate I'd still buy it.

[@angeloplayforone]

We need to ask why no third party adapter with motor for screwdrive lenses has not been released? Maybe this adapters is not profitable hence no one is producing it. Also I think those lenses are old and there are not many people using them.

[@UnconventionalReasoning]

We are also talking about lenses released in about a 15 year window, from the late 1980s to the early 2000s.

[@Anon-zl4ne]

Bingo, the fact that no 3rd party vendors have made one tells me that this is a very vocal minority situation.

[@Favk21]

I would pay premium for that adapter. I've got some AF-D lenses that I'm just not willing to depart with... and because of that, I went with D5 instead of Z6 II

[@robertleidner9703]

Can’t wait to sell my Z6ii to buy this. Hoping for a motor drive