Legendary Nikon underwater camera from 1975 with interchangeable lenses, fully mechanical reliability for diving photography.
The Nikon Nikonos III is a waterproof 35mm camera from 1975, the third generation of the legendary Nikonos underwater camera line. The Nikonos III improved on its predecessors with a more reliable shutter mechanism and better weather sealing while maintaining the compact, rugged design that made the series popular with divers and outdoor photographers.
The camera accepts interchangeable Nikkor lenses designed specifically for underwater and all-weather use, including the standard W-Nikkor 35mm f/2.5 and other wide-angle and close-up optics. The fully mechanical shutter provides speeds from 1/30 to 1/500s, operating without batteries for complete reliability in harsh marine environments.
Build quality is robust with O-ring seals throughout and a compact metal body designed to withstand water pressure at recreational diving depths. The controls are simplified and oversized for operation with gloved hands, and the entire camera can be field-stripped for O-ring inspection and maintenance between dives.
The Nikonos III holds strong value on the used market as one of the most capable and reliable underwater film cameras ever produced. The interchangeable lens system provides versatility no other waterproof compact could match, and the fully mechanical operation ensures the camera functions without electronic components that could fail underwater.