The Nikon L35 AF, launched in 1983, was Nikon's first autofocus compact - nicknamed Pikaichi (top notch) in Japan - and has become one of the most sought-after cult compacts of the film revival.
Its heart is a sharp 35mm f/2.8 Nikkor (5 elements) with a rare 46mm filter thread whose metering cell sits inside the ring so filters compensate automatically; active AF, programmed exposure, pop-up flash, AA power and a backlight lever complete it.
It matters as the origin of Nikon's compact line and one of the few budget-era compacts whose optics rival premium cult cameras costing multiples more; UK prices have climbed steadily.
Used buying: electronic and unrepairable, so insist on a working example - test power-up, AF confirmation needle, flash charge and advance motor; check the AA compartment for corrosion (the common killer) and the ISO dial range; the original ISO 1000 version prices above later AF2/AF3 variants.