🔴 Nikon RANGEFINDER Camera! | Nikon S2 Review + Nikkor SC 50mm f1.4 (Leica M3 Alternative)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

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[@peglapegla]

The best photos taken with this camera that I have seen. Good work sir ❤

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you! See my other videos for lots more photos as I don't use the Nikon S2 as much as my other cameras.

[@sueskeptic2267]

As an owner of 3 x M leicas I can attest that a good S2 has a good rangefinder patch that makes focusing as fast as an M5/M6 (I've never experienced an M3/M2). I have heard several people talking about poor patches in the Nikons and I can only assume those samples need cleaning or have degraded. The focusing experience should be the strength of using this camera. The lack of parallax correction is annoying. You can solve it by getting an SP! Also I will add that all the lenses other than the 50mm lenses (except the external mount version of the 50 f 1.1 ) use the external mounting (including the wide lenses.). Very informative and enjoyable video as usual.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Sue, great to have you hear, thanks for checking out the video! Thanks also for the details and your experience. The patch works fine for most work but it’s not sharp and snappy like some other cameras. I’m fortunate that my inquisitive mind makes me try lots of cameras and I must say many cameras offer a more fun RF experience. You must try a M3 especially. It will be like going to heaven (and I’m not religious haha). If you like 50mm I can 100% guarantee you would swap systems in a blink. M2 suits 35mm better. Great tip on the SP btw, thanks!

[@tfylhk]

I have very different experience than you, I just bought a S3 2000 edition and I find the patch is very poor compare to Leica M, even worse than 60 years old Canon P, most of time I can't even find any patch at all, maybe I wear glasses this make the difference,

[@unbroken1010]

How would they degrade ? How do you check? Thanks

[@unbroken1010]

@@tfylhk really ? Why? Can it be fixed

[@TheWill108]

Great review Matt as always. My S2 serial # is just over 1000 different from yours and in very similar condition. When I first bought the camera the rangefinder patch was dim as well and for a while I lived with it in bright lighting conditions onIy. I found a simple and effective method of cleaning it that transformed it miraculously and is easily the equal to my Leica M’s and Contaxes save for the less defined edges. Search the net and you’ll find instructions for cleaning it that require removing the front faceplate only. Nikon conveniently left an air space behind the rangefinder that allows you to clean the back side of the mirror by inserting a thin piece of cleaning medium (paper based) slightly moistened into the slot repeatedly. I’ve done several using this method and you will fall in love with the camera all over again. I finally settled on Ilford Gallerie inkjet cut into strips approximately 4 mm wide with the leading edge roughed up to hold the cleaning fluid better. Five to seven passes usually does the trick. I can take some snaps of the process if you’re interested. Regards,Wil

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Will, thanks so much for the info! I’ll Google it and try it if opening the camera won’t damage anything.

[@tomredd9025]

I have the chrome dial Nikon S2. Unfortunately, mine also has a weak rangefinder patch too. It is useable but sometimes not very easy. I understand that this is often a common problem on older S2s. I took off the front plate and cleaned the window but I think it needs more of "deep drive" to clean the rangefinder mirror. I am not broken up about it though because I found it in the bottom of box of junky cameras at a flea market in Maine and paid the princely sum of $30. It was dirty but like me cleaned up well and everything else works perfectly. It also mounts perfectly to my Kilfitt Contax reflex box with its Kilfitt 300mm lens and is my go to camera for that excellent lens.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Tom, wow what an amazing find!! Nice camera and patch on mine is OK for walkabout but less ideal for portraits just because I’m spoilt with better options.

[@euroyank860]

Excellent Video Matt !! Well presented, well done, good info.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Eric!

[@AdamCzarnowski]

Funnily enough I have one of these, which I picked up for 500 euros in Athens. Lovely camera. I like the fact that although you admit it is heavy, almost impossible to focus it accurately with any confidence (although in fact you seem to) and there is no parallax and it is expensive, you still clearly love it. One assumes the lenses must be sufficiently distinguished and cheap to make the downsides you mention worth ignoring. Great pictures, by the way. It is a bit special, I agree. A keeper.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Adam! I appreciate your thoughts. I probably do t love it as much as I showed but I like the lenses. More on that in future videos ;)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

..and yes the RF is indeed accurate if you have/ take the time to focus up carefully. “Have the time”.. remember these words and look out for tomorrow’s video. It will make sense when you watch it ;)

[@stephanpaier9887]

Short tip: if you want to shoot what you see in the viewfinder, you will have to tilt (or even better: shift) the Nikon up, not down ;-)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Stephan, sorry I meant up haha.. but shift.. that I like! .. I admit I tilt! Noted thanks! ..just uploading the new video :)

[@8II0000II8]

This is the comparison I was waiting for!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!

[@dangerpowers123]

Oh Christ... I've been for the past three months seriously mulling over the desire i have for an S2 black dial. Always wanted one... it's the one camera I don't own and lust over...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ah yes they look amazing in black!! I will post a photo of one on my Instagram maybe next week. For sale at Flints auctions (from that video/ day).

[@dangerpowers123]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom sorry not in black... The black dial model..like the one you have. Wondering if the Olympus XA patch fix will work on the S2. On the XA of you put a tiny bit of black electrical tape.. cut a tiny square about 3mm square and place it in the middl of the window on the finder window... It should make the image from the RF window that's overlayed stronger. ..

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@dangerpowers123 ah sorry to misunderstand you! Drop me a message on Insta. The patch works for most photography just not what I seem to do ha.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@dangerpowers123 amazing tip, thanks I will try it!

[@dangerpowers123]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom aye no worries

[@vicpico1]

Great Video! Thanks for sharing your reviews on Rangefinders cameras, most specially on the Nikon S series rangefinder. I am a Nikon shooter since 1980, old school.. I do not have a rangefinder camera, and thinking of adding one to my collection. Your reviews make me aware of which directions, I should be focus on. Be safe, have a nice day.! By the way beautiful pictures ! Many thanks again. Keep it up.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you! I appreciate your feedback and if my videos help then great. I will do more Nikon videos.

[@alandavis9180]

A good honest comparison. I have a Leica M6.58 and the Nikon S3 2000 reissue and absolutely love both. In comparison the weakness of the focussing patch on the S3 you mention makes the Leica much easier to use. However the 1X viewfinder of the Nikon is wonderful to work with. Can't decide between a Leica and a Nikon?...Only one solution, buy both.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Alan! Haha yes you are like me, buy the tool for the job.. and if many jobs it results in many tools ha :) Both great cameras!

[@unbroken1010]

Woe you sound rich 💰 buy me one

[@LucyS565]

WOW! I've never seen a Nikon rangefinder camera! Thanks Matt, very interesting!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Happy to share it. :)

[@ulfjonsson2122]

Lovely video. My (1951) Kiev II was stolen in transit to Russia for restoration of the shutter mechanism. I am now loking for a Contax II, Nikon S or a restored Kiew II. Love those cameras./ Ulf

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Sorry to hear about your Kiev. I have a 4a I will share in a later video and you can see my Contax modelling in the recent ‘sharpest Nikon 50mm’ video. I hope you find a nice one.

[@ChrisEbbrsen]

Thanks for 1/30 top dial shutter speed before using low speed dial. That really helped! Thanks Mr.Osborn!😅

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!

[@TrentGamingCo]

Hey I just got an S2 and the rangefinder patch is not as you describe, I think its possible you have some haze or dust in your rangefinder that is causing it to be dim. I love my Nikon S2 and I have an SP as well and the rangerfinder is brighter on the S2. I hope you get your camera serviced so that people dont get the wrong idea about the Nikon because mine is awesome!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks others have told me they have the same issue as me and with the S3 too? Hmm Maybe it depends what you compare it too..? I have quite a few RF cameras so I am comparing it to the best of those. I can see the patch OK and if doing say a street shot it would be very easy to focus but for my work trying to see eye lashes on the closest eye, mine isn't good enough. That said if I do ever find a better copy (patch wise) I will get it as otherwise it is a nice camera. Thanks for sharing!

[@weizhang6979]

My S2 patch is really bright. It’s a joy to focus. I personally prefer it over my Leicas. Especially it is 100% magnification, which means I can shoot with both of my eyes open. The Leica focus patch is pretty bright too, but my s2’s is brighter.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Wei, I tested many and so far I've not found a bright one so you are lucky. Make sure you keep it! :) Otherwise yes great camera.

[@weizhang6979]

Matt Osborne I think I really got lucked out. It was a nice eBay find. I had to send it in for service when I got it, but now it is my regular carry. With the Nikon 28mm f3.5 lens, the camera stays pretty low profile for carrying inside of my jacket. I wonder the dim patch has to do with the mirrors get desilvered over the years or the dust accumulation on those mirrors.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@weizhang6979 thanks, yes maybe. Nice lens too, those Nikkors wides are not cheap. I’ve got a 35 & 50 + Voigtlander 28

[@weizhang6979]

Matt Osborne 35, 50 and 28, you are set! Yes, for some reason the Nikon wides are not cheap. Don’t know why.

[@gregorpichler5899]

Hi Matt - really nice review :)! The rangefinder patch are normally quite comparable to other rangefinders, but the edges of the patch are not clearly defined. However, early Nikon rangefinder and SLR cameras are incredible reliable machines and as the Nikon S2 is around 70 years old, they often haven't got any kind of service but still working great. The downside of this is that there might be a dirt cover in the rangefinder system weakening your patch. If you give it for CLA to a reliable service guy the chance is high that the contrast of your patch increases significantly :)! There are also good online guides for vintage Nikon camera/lens repair, however I only suggest it to do it yourself if you are very experienced in servicing cameras. Looking forward to see more of the camera/lens reviews :) have you ever considered to test the Nikkor-P 10.5cm f2.5 rangefinder lens? Best regards from Austria and have a nice weekend, Gregor

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Gregor, I was lucky to view quite a few bodies at a later date at an auction and they were all similar. Leica patches seem easier for me but agree lovely camera and the 50/1.4 SC is amazing. Video will come on that lens.

[@TheWill108]

Great review Matt as always. My S2 serial # is just over 1000 different from yours and in very similar condition. When I first bought the camera the rangefinder patch was dim as well and for a while I lived with it in bright lighting conditions onIy. I found a simple and effective method of cleaning it that transformed it miraculously and is easily the equal to my Leica M’s and Contaxes save for the less defined edges. Search the net and you’ll find instructions for cleaning it that require removing the front faceplate only. Nikon conveniently left an air space behind the rangefinder that allows you to clean the back side of the mirror by inserting a thin piece of cleaning medium (paper based) slightly moistened into the slot repeatedly. I’ve done several using this method and you will fall in love with the camera all over again. I finally settled on Ilford Gallerie inkjet cut into strips approximately 4 mm wide with the leading edge roughed up to hold the cleaning fluid better. Five to seven passes usually does the trick. I can take some snaps of the process if you’re interested. Regards,Wil

[@tjunglec]

I have an S3 2000 edition. I know they simply wanted to recreate the camera exactly, but why they didn't make a better rangefinder patch is beyond me. Focusing into the light in low light ? Forget it. Shutter also super fragile to light burns. But dead sexy build and lush optics. Thanks Matt !

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!! I really appreciate you backing up my comment regarding the patch. A few other have said it’s good but I’ve never seen a decent patch in these in the ones I’ve seen. I’ll do more videos on similar-ish cameras soon!

[@unbroken1010]

Why does the sun ruin the shutter

[@ChrisEbbrsen]

Go. Take a magnifying glass outside and focus on a piece of paper youl see what will happen!​@@unbroken1010

[@bobk888]

if you wanted only one 35 mm s mount lens, i have an SP. what would you look for ?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Bob, I use Nikkor 35mm and Zeiss Biogon 35mm (post-war). Zeiss is the sharpest, both great lenses.

[@bobk888]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom the zeiss is the contax mount? and do you prefer the 3.5 or 2.5 nikkor 35...thanks for your opinion. i can really only afford to get one of them, would be great to try them all....

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@bobk888 yes Zeiss is CRF but fits both mounts. One of the best performing lenses I own ..and I have a few lenses :) I’ve not compared the 2 Nikkor so not sure for those. Nikkor are much lighter if that matters.

[@bobk888]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks, i really rnjoy yout vids, you have giid insighit. and i will take your opinons to heart. have fun.

[@petegleeson1]

Really enjoy your videos even though my buying a Leica would require a major windfall :D

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Pete!

[@dlyon9673]

Thank you for this very interesting and informative video. I have a Nikon S2, which I like very much, the build quality, design, use experience, and results. I agree the rangefinder patch is not as nice as the Leica M cameras, which means I have to work a bit slower. I wonder if the later Nikon S3 or the professional model, "SP", improved the clarity of the rangefinder.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks D, I went to a camera shop with multiple S bodies and they all seem less good vs Leica sadly. I did try to go that route as the cameras themselves are nice aren't they.

[@helgividar]

Nice camera and beautiful lens. I expect to receive my second Voigtlander SL on Monday - the 40 mill. These lenses are made for Nikon film cameras and therefore I would like you to review some Nikon film cameras. Maybe that will motivate me to shooting film again.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Ah yes the 40 SL ..as shown in this video on the FE2 is a fantastic lens! I love the size and sharpness at f2. Yes OK I will do some more Nikon reviews.. I have to sneak them in so not to upset all the Leica fans! :)

[@terrywbreedlove]

I think I have set my sights on a Nikon 35 Ti. Point and shoot titanium beauty with a sharp 35mm F2.8 lens. With some exposure controls when needed. My pocketable street shooter dream camera :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice Terry! The closest I’ve used is my Contax T2 video.

[@euroyank860]

The adapter is the Nikon S to Leica M, Amedeo has it, not cheap though

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Eric, yes I now have it. Great piece of kit if can find one.

[@TrentGamingCo]

Also the best part about the Nikon RF system is the 1:1 viewfinder and how it allows you to use both eyes open with no strain, I cant use any other rangefinders with my right eye!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks I think I automatically shut one eye when using a camera these days as habit :)

[@erichartke4331]

I have a Contax II properly fully overhauled. It is a quirky but lovely shooting experience.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice! I have a Contax. I still need to use it. I’ll share in a future video but you can see it in the ‘sharpest Nikon 50mm lens video’ as I used it as my model :)

[@arttafil6792]

The Nikon S Series rangefinder cameras have their own lens mount that is very similar to the Contax rangefinder mount,

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks yes correct. Sorry if this was not clear in the video.

[@lindawilson4634]

Very cogent since getting Nikon S2 soon. Got question. Is it necessary to cock shutter/advance film prior to changing shutter speed as in some Russian & German models? Thanks neat video.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Linda, it's a good habit to do this on any old camera but it may not be required for the S2. (I'm not 100% but i've not heard this for the S2)

[@jeremynorth]

Yes the Nikon F was based on the rangefinder camera body. You need to add some acoustic absorption in your room. There's a nasty booming reverb on the audio

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jeremy. Re audio thanks I don’t think my pc monitor speakers give me a true playback. I use a basic setup so I will try to look into options going forward. Thanks

[@alecbruyns4490]

The Nikon S* cameras used the same mount as the Zeiss Contax rangefinders.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank Alec, yes. I have Contax + Kiev too. Same mount but slightly different flange distance.

[@danielbdbe]

hello Matt , are you able to make review of Nikon SP camera ? thanks daniel

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Daniel, if I ever get one to play with an SP I will but currently I can't as I don't own one sorry.

[@MarcS4R]

does the Nikon SP have a Paralax correction ?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hey Mark, yes it does.

[@petercooper9054]

I'm surprised your patch is faint. Maybe the viewfinder needs a clean. The s2 had the brightest viewfinder of the series. The SP has multiple frame lines if you want to use other lenses than a 50mm. I read somewhere that a slightly darker acetate inserted in front of the viewfinder window can improve the contrast of the patch. I'll let you know what my s2 is like as I picked one up and waiting delivery. The 1.4 lens I read is not as good as the f2. But still a nice lens judging from your results.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Peter! Yes the viewfinder is nice and the build also. Yes compared to Leica patches from that period it is faint. That’s for tips and I hope you get a great copy. I use the f2 on Ltm mount. The 1.4 tends to be more desirable. I have more 50s I use on this camera so I will try to share in a future video 👍🏻

[@petercooper9054]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom hi matt. I found your channel after I had bought my S2 ( its still being shipped) will let you know what I think of it. I'm up to my eyes in a canon 7. Boy I agree with Richard shaw on his repair site they were made cheap. The rangefinder is way out and I got a broken piece of glass floating around. Someone must have dropped it. The whole camera is like mint so I need a donor for parts now. Then on with the rebuild of a minoltacord. Shutter needs stripping down which I can do. And one you may never have heard of where I repaired the shutter and got beautiful results is a wester autorol 120 camera with a nkk shutter. Its built like a tank but they made part of the shutter in soft brass so thats where it failed. I'll be posting sometime on my IG monoart69

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@petercooper9054 thanks,you sound far more skilled at fixing cameras than me! I have to send mine off. I have a Canon 7 for a short time, see the video if interested!

[@petercooper9054]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom hi Matt I already watched that video. I just bought a parts one now to replace the finder. I'll use it and confirm it works then sell it on. Yes I broke a few cameras over the years but you learn. I love leaf shutters and I take them down to each blade. Only way to clean years of dirt out. I have the canon 7sz which is lovely to use but some idiot years ago left the battery in and the light meter is dead but at least it's manual and can be used. Check out the Minolta rapid 24 I rebuilt one as the wider sets solid with old grease. I got some great photos from it.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@petercooper9054 thanks I will check it!

[@philmtx3fr]

Hi Matt. I understand the only frame is for 50mm but what is the full viewfinder frame equivalent ? Is it 35mm or smaller ?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Phil, I think from memory it is probably closer to 40mm like the M3. I've not tested it and haven't used that camera for a while.

[@ChrisEbbrsen]

Dear Philmatix mine is a nikon S . The third iteration from Nipon Kogaku. It is I believe something like just under the 35 mm standard frame size. So in a 36 exposure roll I can IF I'm careful squeeze in 40 to 42 shots and therefore more economical than standard 35 mm frame. I don't know if S 2 is the same or S3 or Sp. But I suspect SP had full 35 mm frame size. But I could be wrong. All I know is I love my Nikon❤❤

[@ChrisEbbrsen]

Dear Philmattix3x I think it's only for 50 mm lens. There were clip on rangefinders for other size lenses. Maybe the 90mm might be all right with the stock view g index . But anything larger had to have clip on parallel corrective view finder. It was barrel shaped and looked like a wine barrel with a hot shoe on top. I do not know exact dimensions of various iterations of nikon rangefinders. All I know it is designed for guesstimate the composition not exact plotting. You were supposed to keep both eyes open as you photograph bring the two orange images together and energize Scotty! The red dot below the serial number is to compose close ups. This would right justify to the right of dead center of axis of lens. You simply imagine the approximate frame of your subject and angle up slightly and shoot.

[@philmtx3fr]

@@ChrisEbbrsen thx do5

[@girliedog]

I can't tell you why but there is a cool factor to this camera that make it worth owning.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

It is nicely built and the lenses give a different rendering to many M mount lenses :)

[@marksabin6336]

DSLR user normally, but i’ve spent a few months recently trying to talk myself out of the somewhat irrational decision to invest in a Leica M by watching several of yours and others videos on Leica RF cameras and lenses. So far my bank balance still feels under threat. Anyway, I enjoyed your look at the old Nikon S2, albeit that I won’t be adding one to my Christmas list this year. This said, and purely for my own sanity.. At 13:04.. about the lack of parallax correction, you said “compose and drop the camera down before taking the picture”.. (I liked the edgy crop btw), but wouldn’t dropping the camera down leave the subject even more headless?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Mark, yes Ms are much better than the S2.. and yes sorry for my error it would be of course tilt up. No wonder I miss haha. (No i've never actually tried that). I like composing to the edges too but I lost some images where they became headless. Those I shares were the ones I felt still OK ..and there was only really one that was clearly affected.

[@MB-or8js]

Nikon is one of the few camera brands which I never used. I used for a long time Canon, and even now I disregard the Nikkor S lenses since they don't fit on Leica M. The bayonet system with focusing ring on the camera and turning focus wheel reminds me on some Kodak Retina cameras.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Martin! Yes I’d say this is true for these lenses too. Ltm mount is much more popular as useful on many camera systems. You can get some bargain CRF mount lenses as most people can’t use them.

[@MB-or8js]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I looked up the adapter you mentioned, but I found the ones for Nikon S and Contax RF lenses are different. Both exclude multiple lenses which can't be used with them. As you said, they are expensive around $300.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@MB-or8js thanks yes the annoying thing is you need one for 50mm (internal fit) and another for external mount wider lenses so it gets very expensive if you use both as I do. (Lenses*)

[@madnesstothemethod3328]

An excellent review. I note with some amusement that the serial number on your S2 Black Dial (6188265) is only 34 units higher than my own (6188231) and in just as nice a shape. Greetings from the Antipodes.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and ah cool, small world! (re. SN)

[@benjaminvleugels5609]

Nice video again I'm kinda curious what do you think about the really cheap ussr rangefinder cameras like for instance the FED2?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

I like and I have a few, Zorki FED Kiev.. I’ll do some videos on them soon..I prefer these to the Canon

[@benjaminvleugels5609]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom okay fantastic looking forward to that I really think they're great value for the money indeed

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@benjaminvleugels5609 they are for sure! I'm "filling my boots" while I can ha.. I bought another Kiev 4a only this week. See my "Leica Clones" video to see the Zorki C. That is a good little camera.. I like these lenses too and videos to come on all those

[@benjaminvleugels5609]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I have a Kiev 2A from 1955 really great camera unfortunately the lenses always seem slightly scratched because of the weak coating I also have a fed2 which I really like but one of my favourite cameras is probably the Olympus om1 you have a all the advantages of a slr but it's very light and small like a rangefinder

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@benjaminvleugels5609 thanks yes I had a FED2, nice camera! You can find Kiev 4 cameras cheap on eBay with lenses, so you could buy say a broken camera "parts only" and use the lens on your 2A very cheap. I used an OM10 once, yes the size is lovely. I use more Nikon SLR now. More videos to come on that soon :)

[@arttafil6792]

My S2 patch is very contrasts.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks ah you are lucky! The few I have seem have all been similar to mine..

[@bflanagan67]

I got lucky and picked up an s2 with the 50mm 1.4 lens this week at an affordable price. I'm not a rangefinder shooter, but I was stunned to see the two images floating without a surrounding square yet pretty clear. Unfortunately, this one is dry as a bone and will need lubrication. I can prove it with the cuts in my finger from turning the top serrated wheel. But I'm in awe of it. Now to get it working properly!

[@michelejones5538]

I would like reviews on the Nikon SLR cameras.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Michele, OK I will try to do this month :) ..or 1 at least hehe..I have a few

[@ofeykalakar1]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom the Nikon FM2 seems to be cultish like the Leica M3. Great camera but equally great is the last mechanical film camera Nikon made the FM3A. I bought one new with the kit 45 AiP Tessar design lens.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@ofeykalakar1 thanks. I’m not sure why I bought the FE2 not FM2. I generally prefer manual cameras. I’ll read my own blog again haha. Can’t remember!

[@dglebov]

A beauty!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!

[@---us7qf]

Hello Matt, I have just bought the Niton S3 2000 Limited Ed. from Japan Camera Hunter. It gets delivered in a few days. I wanted to pick-up a 35mm f/1.4. Where do you think I may get a good clean one?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Very nice congrats!! Lenses are less easy to find sadly. I buy all mine on eBay but certain models are more difficult to find. See my recent ebay video on tips for finding lenses on eBay.

[@gilesjazzguitar64]

these cameras are dope , did you know Nikon made the S3 camera in the early 2000s as a limited edition ?I just found out

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes, thanks yes I do remember reading that but I wasn't shooting film at that time so missed that S3 and the new Bessas coming out. The last "new" production film camera I caught the end of was the Fuji GF670 :) ..some shops still had it listed when I found mine but most showed out of stock.

[@huzizach]

Hi again Matt! aside from the slight difference in maximum aperture how does the Nikkor 50/1.4 rate against the Canon 50/1.8 LTM in terms of image sharpness and contrast? also, would you know if the 'faint rangefinder patch' is a Nikon design flaw or just due to wear and tear on your particular model? ?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Zach, I'm not sure on the patch, some readers agree, others disagree but I feel Leicas are better. 1.4 vs 1.8, quite different rendering.. see my Flickr for examples with both leneses.

[@huzizach]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Cheers Matt. Really helpful seeing your results.

[@jonathonsniezek2274]

Highly recommend the Nikkor-P.C. 8.5cm f2 with the external viewfinder (or get an SP for parallax correction and 6 frame-lines and comes in at only 603g) Easily one of my favorite lenses for my Nikon S2 & SP. As for the viewfinder patch, I actually have the opposite issue. My Leica M3 is very light and hard to focus and my S2 is absolutely perfect. Bright and easy to focus. However, that’s only due to the conditions they were kept in by previous owners. Once I clean up my M3 I’m sure they’ll be even.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jonathon, on all points! If I can find a decide SP with patch I can use I could be tempted. The S2 is nicely made. Watch this space! (I will also share some similar cameras in future videos so stay tuned! One is an alternative to the SP!) :) ..same mount + 35mm framelines etc* :)

[@unbroken1010]

Have you tried these lense on mirrorless. I found a lens

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes I use on my Leica SL - see the full lens video I posted recently (search the full name of the lens and you'll find it)

[@unbroken1010]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks for the reply. I have some old I think 8 mm or 16 mm Kodak cine s mount lenses. They seem nice on micro four thirds and Pentax q

[@AGL93311]

Well if you want 1:1 viewfinder there is the Canon P. A P plus 50/1.4 Nikkor SC should cost less than the Camera/lens combo you review. If concerned about the EBL, then Get a Canon VI-L instead which has the 1:1 view for 50 and 100, plus a separate 1.5x (like Leica IIIa) for critical focusing. Another option is a V series Canon. Either will allow you to use the 50 Nikkor inexpensively until you get an M3. The Amadeo Contax-M adapter is, as you said, problematic and you are stuck with the less useful/valuable S mount version...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Adam! If you ever start a KZbin you should be Mr Canon! :) You certainly know lots about them, thanks for details. Yes re. the adapter and yes re. getting the lens in LTM mount but they are more expensive that perhaps you think. I've looked so I know the current prices both in UK and Japan. Not cheap for a clean copy! Many scratched copies in Japan... making the S2 actually pretty good value.

[@AGL93311]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom How close does the Nikkor 50/1.4 SC on the Nikon S2 focus? I ask because, as you know, the LTM version (like it's fellow Sonnar sibling the 50/2 HC) can focus down to 0.5m, which is only really useful on a mirrorless camera. Because of this feature the mount can be trimmed down to allow true rangefinder coupling on an M2 (and 0.72 descendants), or an adjusted M3 to 0.7cm. Which no doubt you would find very useful in your type of photography...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@AGL93311 thanks Adam, yes that is why I’ve tried to buy the LTM in the past. The S2 goes down to 0.9m only. The 50/2 Ltm is great for that. You’re totally correct. 👍🏻

[@BLECHHAUS]

The best of both worlds of Leica / Contax. Ya even can operate it with one hand.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!

[@noureldainnoureldain5851]

First Matt i have a question I love black and white but i really don't like watching people test film stocks So my question is what is the lowest grain black and white and high contrast And when i say low grain i mean non-existent grain Oh forget please make more videos about hasselblad and square format vs 6*7

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Get some Ilford Pan F 50 ;) See film reviews here - mrleica.com/film-photographer-uk/

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

..and OK I try to do more medium format soon :)

[@ofeykalakar1]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Kodak tech pan is pretty good too.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@ofeykalakar1 thanks! Can you still buy TechPan?

[@ozbaz99]

KEH usually sell these cameras at a better price then eBay but they rarely have them and they see quickly.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Great tip for anyone looking to buy.

[@alanandkarenbootholdfield6179]

Hi The rangefinder patch sounds a bit like a canon P which is horrible Think i will stick to my Leicas as special the iiic lovely little camera

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes it's a shame because otherwise a nice camera (and lens). Leica know how to make rangefinders :)

[@tompaste387]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Now I have to look for an S2, thanks Matt lol

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha sorry Tom! :) I might sell mine at some point, feel free to message me via Instagram if in the UK. Can't decide but currently waiting for a nice Nikon S mount lens to arrive!

[@j-s-m-photographymc5317]

Matt you got to stop; doing this i just bought a Texas Leica .......now I want the Nikon S2 ! In all fairness it’s a good looking camera with the shots to match .

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha sorry! Yes nice looking camera with build perhaps similar to a Leica M3 type camera.

[@j-s-m-photographymc5317]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I will start by saying mat I’m loving your shows without doing to much brown noiseing I think your one of a few that actually have a passion for your cameras and I love it most of the shows I watch especially the ones from are lovely cuisines from across the pond seem to do camera shows about the Selfs instead of telling you how to shoot or what’s good about the camera they are actually ranting about them and how good there shots are (there the pop up flash types the cool camera that everyone thinks is on manual and the real real irritating thing is most of them don’t look old enough to shave but they have Beards look like the hipster types with loads of money loads of Cameras and wait for it not that I’m some great photographer because I’m not but I have one operating arm and I could do better! there a waste of you tube space ! We need some more matteys keep it up mate your putting loads to shame but please please please .....don’t go a beard ! If anyone complains mat about what I wrote I’m blaming it on the medication yea the good stuff tramadol morphine and pregabalin and just in case the drug squad are reading or watching ....it’s all prescribed I have 3 more cameras to get thanks to you ! god I love old cameras with the Fuji GW 390 lll I had dramas with the dealers where they couldn’t tell me the cameras history then other quote mmmm I bought it from a shop then I didn’t want to go on a very low shutter count I read that the systems can be hacked and on the point and shoot digital counter medium format so I upset a few dealers .hey the way I look at it I’m parting with in my eyes a lot of money it’s got to be right , the Nikon S2 is nice and the S3 but what you said is right what makes this camera even more special is the lens when it’s time for the Leica I. Conning to you for advice . And the other thing I’m trying to do with e bay is try and work with one Japanese dealer .

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@j-s-m-photographymc5317 thanks as always for your feedback. No risk of a beard here so you are safe ha. Yes those old Nikon are nice. See next video you’ll see those and vintage Leica. Special video, hour long!! Out of the studio so I hope people enjoy it. Lots of info, coming soon! :)

[@nelsonclub7722]

If only they brought it back in digital form.....

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

YES!! ..and with a decent RF patch haha

[@ChrisEbbrsen]

Dear Mark S4! I believe so but only for the 50mm standard lens. Anything other than you had to clip on a designated rangefinder. There may be universal rangefinders from other brands that might work. That was before I was born so all this is new to me also. Hope Ive answered your question. Be careful if you buy an S the speed dial is a chess match! Hold out for an SP, its the professional choice. Or dont be a dummy like me and hold on to your F!. Or your ass, one or the other! Over and out!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!

[@caldera878]

Canon 7 prices had inflated since your last video.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Oh dear. I can't impact the market much verses the big KZbinr (film shooters) but I maybe review more items quicker than them.

[@noureldainnoureldain5851]

And make videos about Nikon fe2

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes that I can do. On my list..hopefully in the next few weeks.

[@neilpiper9889]

I know Nikon made lenses for early Canon cameras

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks yes Nikkor made LTM lenses, they are great but expensive now. Canon seem to be cheaper.

[@MarsKvaratskhelia]

Contax kiev2 nikon s2

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Are you asking me which is the best? Kiev! I use all 3.. other videos will follow 👍🏻

[@MarsKvaratskhelia]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom they all 3 look same to me same contax lens mount same design 😃👍Super Kiev is winner I also have kiev2

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@MarsKvaratskhelia Kiev 2, nice! I looked at a few. I got another 4a only yesterday. Video to follow :)

[@ChrisEbbrsen]

Dear Dangerpowers there are still reproductions out there of your desireous camera. They are in the 6 to 10 thou. Bracket. You may luck out and find a better deal somewhere. Also if you or a friend are going to japan for any reason there may be your opportunity to pay less. However I believe the Japanese wont let it go nessasarily for a song. Hope this helps.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks!