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Nikon SP RangefinderVariations
A relatively undocumented part of Nikon Rangefinder collecting is Nikon SP variations. Very early ones (probably the first 300) really are different. Of course the most famous SP variations are the switchover from cloth to titanium shutter curtains, and the optional Black finish rather than chrome.
Very Early Nikon SP (approx. the first 300)
- Brighter Rangefinder Patch than later production
- Machined rather than stamped advance lever
- Thicker 35mm viewfinder frameline
- Four patents listed on inside of back. Later cameras have either 5 or 6 patents listed
- "Nippon Kogaku Tokyo" lightly engraved compared to later cameras
- Slightly coarser knurling on shutter guard than later cameras
- Advance lever cap has slightly lighter concentric rings
- Strap lugs slightly different shape
- ASA dial on bottom is RED from 10-50, WHITE from 50-400. Later cameras have RED 10-32 and WHITE 50-400.
- PC connector collar slightly coarser rings
I am not sure how long each of these variations lasted, but I would guess that variations 1-3 above were the first to go.
Very Late SP's have Nikon F features:
Identical advance levers
Advance lever caps
Shutter release guards
Self timers
Shutter speed dials
Titanium shutter curtains
NEW Nikon Black SP!
To most dedicated Nikon collectors, there is no Nikon quite as desirable as the black Nikon SP. On January 14th 2005 Nikon announced a new limited production run of 2500 SP's mounting the 35/1.8 Nikkor.
This is a dream come true to many long time Nikon collectors. INFO
Voigtlander Nikon/Contax Rangefinder Related Products
Voigtlander Bessa R2S R2C Rangefinders in Classic Nikon or Contax Rangefinder Mounts
Voigtlander Bessa R2S 50/3.5 Heliar S NHS Commemorative in Classic Nikon Rangefinder Mount
Voigtlander SL 12/5.6 and 15/4.5 Aspherical widest EVER for NRF
Voigtlander Nikon Rangefinder SC Mount Lens Intro 21/4, 25/4, 35/2.5 intro
Voigtlander Nikon Rangefinder SC Lenses: SC 21/4, SC 25/4, SC 28/3.5, SC 35/2.5, SC 35/1.2 Prototype, S 50/1.5, S 50/2.5, S 50/3.5, S 85/3.5
Voigtlander VC Meter II small compact silicon meter with LED readout for Nikon Rangefinders
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Revised: September 12, 2017 . Copyright � 1998-2002 Stephen Gandy. All rights reserved. This means you may NOT copy and re-use the text or the pictures in ANY other internet or printed publication of ANY kind. Information in this document is subject to change without notice. Other products and companies referred to herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or mark holders.