Nikon D200, Nikon Series E 100mm f/2.8

CCD Resurgence: Images with a manual-focus legacy renowned for its exceptional sharpness, the Nikon Series E 100mm f/2.8, on an equally applaudable 10MP CCD Nikon D200.

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The Nikon Series E 100mm f/2.8, a classic manual-focus telephoto prime lens, often mentioned as a 'sleeper' or a 'hidden gem' by vintage enthusiasts, was the first of Nikon Series E lenses. The Ai-S-compatible F-mount lens was launched in 1979 alongside budget-friendly film camera bodies like the Nikon EM (and later the FG), a series designed as an economical alternative to the traditional 'Nikkor' line while offering strong optical performance.

The lens, a 4-element, 4-group Ernostar-type design with 7 aperture blades, has a closest focusing distance of 1 meter, measures 63 mm (diameter) x 58mm (length), accepts 52mm filters, and weighs approximately 215-225 grams.

Others in the series includes the 28mm f/2.8, 35mm f/2.5, 50mm f/1.8, 135mm f/2.8, 36-72mm f/3.5, 75-150mm f/3.5, and 70-210mm f/4.0.

The lenses were also manufactured in two iterations, with the initial series featuring an all-black plastic (polycarbonate) barrel, reportedly with a rather flimsy aperture ring and a bland appearance.

The series was later updated with a chrome/silver ring for improved durability and a closer affinity to the professional Ai-S series lenses.

The lens is recognized for its solid center sharpness, low distortion, and strong contrast. With its single-coated optic, however, the lens is prone to lens flare when shooting into bright light sources. The lens works well with its original focal length of 100mm for head-and-shoulders portraits with natural depth-of-field separation. On the Nikon D200, the lens provides a 150mm equivalent field of view, ideal for discreet candid shots, travel, and close-up detail work.

The Nikon Series E lenses were also known to be manufactured in two iterations, with the initial series featuring an all-black plastic (polycarbonate) barrel, reportedly with a rather flimsy aperture ring, and a bland appearance. The series was later updated with a chrome/silver ring for improved durability and a closer affinity to the professional Ai-S series lenses.

Nikon D200, Nikon Series E 100mm f/2.8

The Nikon D200, a mid‑high‑end APS‑C DSLR introduced in 2005, remains highly regarded by legacy camera and lens enthusiasts as one of the best 'prosumer' Nikons ever produced. Built on a magnesium-alloy chassis, the camera features a weather‑sealed body, a large optical pentaprism viewfinder, and is equipped with a 10MP CCD sensor that produces a unique, saturated, and filmic look. Its classic Nikon handling layout makes it popular among film-style shooters and collectors alike.