Nikon's engineering marvel didn't stand the test of time - Nikkor 35-200mm f3.5-4.5 review

[@Trevellian]

The stiffness is likely due to the organic oils in the lens having congealed as the lighter fractions evaporated. Disassembling the lens to clean out the old lubrication, then replacing it with modern synthetic lubricants should make it operate smoothly.

[@MarcoAries]

Indeed.

[@patternsinsand]

Thanks for the thorough review. I agree that this is an annoying lens to use but I find that it's one that I reach for all the time. I shoot film, which is more forgiving of the sharpness wide open, and having it on my Nikon FE is like having a Swiss army knife. It displays different characteristics in different conditions, can do close up well, and is hand-holdable at 200mm.

[@MarcoAries]

Good for you! We all have different needs and preferences, but the only thing that matter is if it works for you ;)

[@GeoffNotkin]

Thank you very much for this review, Marco! I have this vintage lens but could not figure out how to engage the macro mode and it's seemingly impossible to find the manual online. I have now used it successfully (in manual mode) on my Nikon DSLR. I agree that the macro feature is annoying, but it does produce some good images once you get that to work! I appreciate the expert info. Cheers. Subscribed : )

[@MarcoAries]

Glad it was helpful!

[@classic.cameras]

I agree. I always want to like a vintage zoom but I never want to use them. Of the dozen I have I probably ever think of using my Canon FD 100-300mm f5.6L or Konica 70-150mm and this weird Hannimex 80-200 that has swirly bokeh for some reason. The others just sit in a drawer and are looked at for more the engineering than practical use.

[@MarcoAries]

Oh, it's a constant struggle with vintage zooms! Plus, most of the times they are too big. Excluding the more modern Pentax-F 70-200, the only one I've really liked is the Sigma 35-70, which, as your Hanimex, does swirl.

[@classic.cameras]

@@MarcoAries weirdest zoom I would like to try is that Nikon 43-86mm lens. Seems real weird focal length. But will only buy if I get for nearly free

[@MarcoAries]

That is odd indeed 😂

[@robert18productions]

You should try picking up the Canon FD 80-200mm f/4 L. It is easily the sharpest vintage zoom lens I have ever used. According to others, it performs better in terms of sharpness and chromatic aberration control than similar primes within its zoom range. I would argue it still rivals many modern zoom lenses in terms of sharpness. The only problem is that it is relatively expensive at around $150-250 USD in the USA. Other lenses I recommend using are the Tamron Adaptall-2 SP (01A) 35-80mm F2.8-3.8 which has pretty good sharpness from wide open, focuses close, can be found relatively cheap on the used market, and has some of the best mechanics I have ever used on a vintage zoom lens. Another is the Minolta MD 35-70mm f/3.5 II or III versions. Though very plastic in their construction, they have fantastic sharpness and are parfocal.

[@MarcoAries]

Thanks for sharing! I know the Canon is a favorite of many, but it is very rare and even more expensive around here. If I remember correctly, I've only seen one for something like 4/500€.

[@seoulrydr]

the nikon zoom of doom

[@danienelphoto]

Yeah, I know what you mean. It strikes me as a lens I would use once and not again.

[@MarcoAries]

Exactly!