If you know these underwater cameras, you know that out of all the models, this was the best.
Camera comes with strobe set up, rack & pelican case. In good condition.
The Nikon Nikonos III: A Waterproof Marvel
The Nikon Nikonos III is more than just a camera; it's a testament to engineering ingenuity and a love letter to underwater photography. So, grab your metaphorical snorkel, and let's explore its depths:
Origins and Design:
- The Nikonos III traces its lineage back to the Calypso, a camera designed in the 1950s by Belgian engineer Jean de Wouters with input from none other than the legendary Jacques Cousteau. Imagine brainstorming underwater camera concepts over a cup of coffee with Cousteau—talk about a dream collaboration!
- Unlike its land-loving counterparts, the Nikonos III didn't need an external housing. It was purpose-built for underwater adventures, with a robust, pressure-resistant body that could withstand depths of up to 50 meters (164 feet). No flimsy plastic here; this camera meant business.
- Jean de Wouters, being both an engineer and a diver, poured his heart into refining the design. The result? A sleek, mechanical marvel that combined form and function seamlessly.
Features and Functionality:
- The Nikonos III is fully mechanical, devoid of any fancy electronics or light meters. It's like the James Bond of underwater cameras—reliable, no-nonsense, and ready for action.
- Loading and unloading film involves a quirky ritual: First, you remove the lens. Yes, you heard that right. The lens pops off with a half-turn, revealing the film chamber. It's like disarming a tiny torpedo.
- The viewfinder is a bright-line window type, offering a crisp frame and a generous field of view. When you peer through it, you're not just framing a shot; you're glimpsing the ocean's secrets.
Aesthetics and Feel:
- Hold a Nikonos III, and you'll understand why it's more than a tool—it's an objet d'art. The tactile pleasure of its metal body, the satisfying click of its controls—it's like cradling a piece of maritime history.
- The camera's operation feels odd at first, but it quickly becomes second nature. It's like learning to ride a bicycle underwater: initially awkward, then surprisingly graceful.
- And that viewfinder? It's as spacious as a penthouse suite in a luxury submarine. You'll find yourself composing shots with newfound enthusiasm.
Legacy and Fame:
- The Nikonos III wasn't content with just underwater fame. It wanted to be a versatile superstar. So, it flexed its muscles above water too, capturing rainstorms, jungles, and even the Vietnam War.
- Jean de Wouters, take a bow. Your brainchild became a cult classic—a camera that photographers coveted, whether they were diving into coral reefs or strolling through city streets.
In summary, the Nikonos III isn't just a camera; it's a time capsule from an era when adventurers strapped on flippers and explored the unknown. So, if you ever find one washed ashore in a vintage camera shop, consider it a treasure trove of photographic history. And remember, even if you don't take it deep-sea diving, it'll still whisper tales of underwater wonders in your ear.