Nikon's original fast normal — the manual-focus Nikkor-S Auto 58mm f/1.4 for the F mount.
The Nikkor-S Auto 58mm f/1.4 is one of the original fast standards for the Nikon F, introduced in the early 1960s. The S code marks its element count, and the slightly long 58mm focal length was used because a true 50mm f/1.4 clearing the reflex mirror was harder to build at the time. It was the fast normal of the earliest F system.
This is a manual-focus Nikon F lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.4 and a fixed 58mm focal length, with an automatic diaphragm for full-aperture viewing. It is a fast double-Gauss standard operating with normal reflex viewing on the F system. Only the verified focal, aperture and mount are stated; construction details are omitted to avoid error.
Wide open the lens has a soft, glowing rendering with gentle contrast and shallow depth of field, sharpening as it stops down. The slightly long focal length and the wide-open look make it well suited to portraits and atmospheric low-light work. It is valued today as much for its character as its performance.
On the used market the 58mm f/1.4 Nikkor-S is collectible as an original F-system fast normal and commands moderate prices. Inspect the elements for haze, fungus and separation, check coatings for scratches, confirm the automatic diaphragm operates, and test focus damping. It adapts well to mirrorless where the vintage rendering is popular for portraits.