Nikon N50 (F50) (1994–1998)

Name: Nikon N50
Brand: Nikon

At 9.0 oz, it slips into a jacket pocket like a paperback. Don't let the weight fool you, though. This was Nikon's first entry-level SLR to drop the old-school lens prong.

Overview

The Nikon N50 (F50)) is a quiet camera. Nikon released it in 1994 and produced it until 1998. It marked a shift in Nikon's lineup toward fully modernized, compact 35mm SLRs for beginners, without the mechanical linkages of the past. The US MSRP was $379.95. It targeted shooters stepping up from point-and-shoots who wanted autofocus, auto-wind, and real lens interchangeability, but without the bulk or price of Nikon's pro bodies.

Owners learn one thing fast: the N50 doesn't play well with the past. It was the first entry-level Nikon SLR to abandon the traditional mechanical prong. That means it cannot meter or autofocus with older Non-AI (NAI) or AI/AI-S manual focus lenses lenses). Even newer AF-S lenses won't autofocus on it, and only manual focus works with them. G-type lenses (without aperture rings) are compatible, but E-type metering lenses reportedly won't function. Some owners have been frustrated by this, especially those hoping to use vintage glass. The camera was designed for AF and AF-D lenses of the era, and with those it performs solidly and quietly.

Specifications

Manufacturer	Nikon
Product Type	entry level autofocus SLR
Production Year	1994
Weight	9.0 oz
Dimensions	2.6x2.4"
Filter Size	52mm
Nikon Product Number	1970 NCP
Autofocus System	TTL phase detection system using Nikon advanced AM200 autofocus module

Historical Context

The N50 (F50) arrived during a transitional moment for Nikon, between mechanical film cameras and the digital future. It was positioned as an entry-level SLR, and the N60 (F60)) eventually replaced it, continuing the trend of lighter, more automated bodies. By dropping support for older manual focus lenses, Nikon made a clean break from legacy systems and focused on its newer AF ecosystem.

Collectibility & Value

Today the N50 sits in the lower tier of vintage SLR collectibility. A Magic Lantern Guide for the model exists - 176 pages, fully illustrated, now out of print and listed at $20.00. Service manuals are available at the same price. On the secondary market, working units have been listed around $40.00, though some report paying as little as $7 on eBay. Failures are not widely documented, but at least one user reported receiving a body that was DOA, suggesting reliability can vary with age and storage. No widespread failure modes or maintenance tips are recorded in available sources.