Nikon AF230 (1997)
The Nikon AF230 is a 1997 entry-level 35mm point-and-shoot. It was also sold as the "Fun Touch 5," and QD (date-back) versions exist. It's a fully automatic compact with a fixed 29mm f/4.5 wide-angle lens (3 elements in 3 groups), a 1/125th sec. shutter, and DX film speed sensing from ISO 100-1600. Film loading, winding, and rewind are all automatic. The built-in flash has a cancel mode for when you don't want it, plus a force-flash setting for fill light or backlight situations.
It's a lightweight (190g) camera for casual, everyday photography, and the wide lens suits snapshots and travel. One UK dealer calls it a "nice simple 35 film point-and-shoot camera" that's been tested with batteries and film, and says it takes "beautiful film quality photos." That's all the documented reception there is. No period reviews or user commentary have surfaced.
Little else is recorded about the AF230. No original retail price, battery type, dimensions, or viewfinder specs are documented. Current asking prices in UK shops run around £70-£75, with one listing at $140. Like many consumer compacts of this era, it was a tool for casual shooters rather than a landmark model.
Known specs:
- 29mm f/4.5 Nikon lens (3 elements / 3 groups)
- Shutter: 1/125 sec.
- Film speeds: DX ISO 100–1600
- Built-in flash with cancel and force modes
- Fully automatic operation, auto film wind/rewind
- Weight: 190g
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