Extremely rare early Nikon M from 1950, transitional model that adopted the standard 24x36mm frame size.
The Nikon M is one of the earliest production Nikon cameras from 1950, a transitional model between the Nikon I and the Nikon S. The M introduced the standard 24x36mm frame size after the Nikon I used the non-standard 24x32mm format, establishing the 35mm standard that Nikon would use forever after.
The camera was produced in very limited numbers during the transition to the S model, making it one of the rarest production Nikon cameras. The M uses the Nikon rangefinder mount with the quality Nikkor optics that were already establishing Nikon's optical reputation.
Build quality is early post-war Nikon with quality metal construction that demonstrates the precision engineering Nikon applied even to their earliest production cameras. The M represents a critical moment in Nikon's history — the adoption of the universal 35mm frame size.
The Nikon M is extremely rare and commands extraordinary collector prices as one of Nikon's earliest cameras. The historical significance of adopting the standard 24x36mm frame and the limited production make it one of the most sought-after vintage Nikon cameras.