Nikon's ultra-wide AI-S prime — the 15mm f/3.5 for extreme wide-angle film and digital photography.
The Nikon Nikkor 15mm f/3.5 AI-S is a manual focus ultra-wide rectilinear prime for Nikon F mount, introduced around 1982. At 15mm on full frame, it provides a dramatic 110-degree field of view — one of the widest non-fisheye Nikon manual focus lenses. The AI-S specification provides linear aperture response for improved auto-exposure.
Optical performance is good for the era. Sharpness is very good in the centre when stopped down. The rectilinear design keeps straight lines straight. Distortion is present but well-managed for 15mm. The f/3.5 aperture is modest but adequate for the typically stopped-down use of ultra-wide lenses. Multi-coating provides good contrast for the era.
Nikon F mount, AI-S specification. The bulbous front element prevents standard filter use. Weight is approximately 630 grams. Build quality is excellent all-metal Nikon construction. The AI-S coupling provides full metering on compatible bodies. A manual focus ring with good damping. Compatible with every Nikon F-mount body from 1977 onwards.
Available on the used market at moderate prices. Check the bulbous front element for damage. An interesting ultra-wide for Nikon film shooters and mirrorless adapters. The 15mm perspective is dramatic. The lack of AF is expected for this vintage. The Samyang 14mm f/2.8 offers faster aperture at lower cost; the Nikon 14-24mm f/2.8 offers zoom flexibility.