Selling my Nikonos v underwater film camera.
Nikonos V: The Ultimate Underwater Film Camera
1. History and Origins
- The Nikonos V is the fifth and final iteration of the legendary Nikonos series, which began with the brainchild of ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau.
- Introduced in 1963, the Nikonos was the world's first fully-fledged underwater camera. Its public debut involved displaying it submerged in an aquarium at the 1963 Photokina Fair in Germany.
- The Nikonos V, released two decades later, took underwater photography to new depths (literally) with its advanced features.
2. Design and Durability
- The Nikonos V is a fully mechanical 35mm film camera designed specifically for underwater use.
- Its robust construction allows it to handle extreme conditions: deep dives, corrosive saltwater, and hazardous environments.
- The camera body resembles a solid alloy brick, emphasizing its durability.
- Available in striking orange or camo green, the Nikonos V exudes ruggedness.
3. Key Features
- Through-the-Lens Metering: The Nikonos V offers TTL (through-the-lens) metering for both ambient light and flash. This feature ensures accurate exposure even underwater.
- Aperture-Priority Auto Exposure: Photographers can set the desired aperture, and the camera adjusts the shutter speed automatically.
- Depth Rating: The Nikonos V can descend to depths of up to 50 meters (164 feet), making it suitable for recreational divers.
- Saltwater Resistant: Not only does it withstand saltwater, but it also laughs in the face of sand, rain, and snow.
- Nikkor Lenses: The camera pairs beautifully with Nikkor lenses designed specifically for underwater photography.
4. Shooting Experience
- The Nikonos V feels heavy and clunky, but that's part of its charm. It's a no-nonsense tool.
- Loading film is straightforward, and the manual focus is precise.
- The viewfinder provides a clear, bright image, even underwater.
- When submerged, the camera's orange hue stands out against the blue depths.
6. Pro Tips
- Lighting Matters: Underwater scenes can be tricky due to light absorption. Use external strobes or natural light effectively.
- Composition: Pay attention to framing and balance. The Nikonos V rewards thoughtful composition.
- Experiment: Try double exposures, split shots (half above water, half below), and creative angles.
In summary, the Nikonos V isn't just a camera; it's a companion for fearless adventurers who want to document the hidden wonders of our oceans. Whether you're diving deep or simply braving a rainstorm, this camera has your back!