Nikon's early wide prime — the manual-focus Nikkor-S Auto 35mm f/2.8 for the F mount.
The Nikkor-S Auto 35mm f/2.8 is an early wide-angle prime for the Nikon F system, introduced in the early 1960s. The S code marks its element count, and it was one of the first widely used 35mm Nikkors, giving F-system photographers a compact retrofocus wide with a practical moderate aperture for everyday and reportage work.
This is a manual-focus Nikon F lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 and a fixed 35mm focal length, using an automatic diaphragm for full-aperture viewing. It is a retrofocus design that clears the reflex mirror for normal viewing. Only verified figures are given; element counts, filter thread and weight are omitted to avoid error.
The rendering gives a natural wide field with the modest distortion typical of Nikon's early wides, sharpening as it stops down from its f/2.8 maximum. It suits street, travel, documentary and general use where a compact wide is wanted. The moderate aperture keeps the lens small and easy to carry.
On the used market the Nikkor-S 35mm f/2.8 is common and inexpensive, an accessible entry into vintage Nikkor glass. Inspect the elements for haze and fungus, check the coatings for cleaning marks, confirm the automatic diaphragm closes cleanly, and test focus for smooth damping. It adapts well to mirrorless and makes a light, characterful manual wide.