Nikon's feature-packed mid-range AF SLR — the F-70, electronic, matrix metering, Nikon F, 1994.
The Nikon F-70, introduced in 1994, was a mid-range autofocus 35mm SLR aimed at enthusiasts, noted for its distinctive fan-shaped control panel. It was sold as the N70 in the United States. It belonged to Nikon's autofocus range of the mid-1990s and used the Nikon F bayonet mount, part of the long-lived Nikon lens system.
This is an electronically controlled 35mm SLR on the Nikon F mount, with a vertical-travel focal-plane shutter that is electronically timed, offering speeds broadly to 1/4000 second plus B, with flash sync around 1/125. Metering includes matrix, centre-weighted and spot patterns; exposure modes include programmed, aperture-priority, shutter-priority and manual. It provides phase-detection autofocus, integral film advance and a built-in flash. As an electronic body it depends on batteries to operate.
The F-70 suits enthusiasts and general users wanting matrix metering, a full set of modes and a built-in flash in a mid-range body. Its unusual control interface uses the front panel for many settings, which divides opinion but offers a lot of features for the class. It works with AF Nikkor lenses for autofocus across everyday shooting.
On the used market, being fully electronic, it needs good batteries, so test AF, the flash, meter and all exposure modes. Check the shutter, inspect the LCD panel for bleed, and look for perished light-seal and mirror-damper foam, common on this era. Try loading and rewind. It uses standard lithium cells rather than mercury batteries. AF Nikkor lenses autofocus; manual AI-S lenses can be used with reduced metering support.