Nikon's first fast wide — the manual-focus Nikkor-N Auto 35mm f/1.4 for the F mount, low-light reportage.
The Nikkor-N Auto 35mm f/1.4 is Nikon's fast wide-aperture 35mm for the F system, introduced around 1970. The N code marks its element count, and it was one of the first 35mm f/1.4 lenses for an SLR system, prized by photojournalists working in low light. It began a long-running fast 35mm line that continued through the Ai and Ai-S eras.
This is a manual-focus Nikon F lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.4 and a fixed 35mm focal length, using an automatic diaphragm for full-aperture viewing. It is a fast retrofocus wide that operates with normal reflex viewing. Only verified figures are stated; element counts, filter thread and weight are omitted to avoid error.
Wide open the f/1.4 aperture gives a distinctive glow and gentle rendering with visible field curvature and coma at the edges, a look many photographers seek deliberately. Stopping down cleans up the corners and raises contrast. It suits low-light reportage, night street work and atmospheric available-light images.
On the used market the Nikkor-N 35mm f/1.4 is collectible and moderately priced for a fast vintage wide, valued for its early-optics character. Inspect the front and rear elements for haze and fungus, check coatings for scratches, confirm the automatic diaphragm operates, and test focus for smooth damping. It adapts well to mirrorless where its wide-open look is popular.