NIKON NIKKORMAT FTN

Name: Nikon Nikkormat FTn
Brand: Nikon

The Nikon Nikkormat FTn is a 35mm film single-lens reflex (SLR) camera introduced by Nikon in 1967 as an improved version of the original Nikkormat FT. Designed for serious amateur and professional photographers, it features through-the-lens (TTL) metering with center-weighted light measurement and full compatibility with Nikon’s F-mount lens system. The FTn represented a significant step in Nikon’s strategy to offer high-performance SLRs at a more accessible price point than the flagship Nikon F.

Overview

The Nikkormat FTn was developed during a pivotal era in 35mm photography, when SLRs were rapidly replacing rangefinders as the preferred tools for both professionals and advanced amateurs. Released in 1967, the FTn built upon the foundation of the 1965 Nikkormat FT, incorporating several refinements—most notably, a redesigned metering system optimized for use with Nikon’s new line of "Automatic" (AI) and "K-type" lenses that featured the Instant Return Stop-Down Metering (IRSM) mechanism. Despite sharing the F-mount and many design cues with the professional-grade Nikon F and F2, the Nikkormat series was manufactured under the Nippon Kogaku "Nikkormat" brand to distinguish it as a more cost-effective alternative, both in production and pricing.

Targeted at advanced amateurs and semi-professionals, the FTn offered mechanical reliability, manual exposure control, and precise TTL metering—all in a rugged, all-metal chassis with a vertically-traveling focal-plane shutter. It was one of the first cameras to implement center-weighted metering in a production SLR, giving photographers greater exposure accuracy in real-world conditions compared to the simpler center-averaged systems of earlier models. The FTn remained in production until 1975, when it was succeeded by the Nikkormat EL series, which introduced aperture-priority automation. Its longevity and robust build have cemented its status as a classic mechanical SLR.

Specifications

Specification	Value
Type	35mm Single-Lens Reflex (SLR)
Film Format	35mm (135 film), 24x36mm frame size
Years Produced	1967–1975
Lens Mount	Nikon F-mount (with aperture coupling lever for AI and pre-AI lenses)
Shutter	Vertical-travel focal-plane shutter, speeds from 1 sec to 1/1000 sec, plus Bulb (B)
Metering	Through-the-lens (TTL), center-weighted, CdS (Cadmium Sulfide) meter
Exposure Modes	Manual only; stop-down metering
Viewfinder	Fixed pentaprism, eye-level, approximately 0.92x magnification, 94% frame coverage
Dimensions	148 × 90 × 57 mm (5.8 × 3.5 × 2.2 in); weight: ~705 g (24.9 oz) body only (without battery or lens)

Key Features

TTL Center-Weighted Metering: One of the first SLRs to implement center-weighted metering, emphasizing the central 12mm diameter of the frame for more accurate exposure in typical compositions.
F-Mount Compatibility: Full mechanical compatibility with Nikon F-mount lenses, including pre-AI, AI, and early Series E lenses; requires stop-down metering for non-automatic lenses.
Stop-Down Metering System: Meter coupling via a mechanical lever linked to the lens aperture, activated by pressing the stop-down lever on the camera body.
Mechanical Shutter Operation: Fully mechanical shutter at all speeds except for metering (which requires battery), ensuring functionality even without power.
Interchangeable Focusing Screens: User-replaceable focusing screens, including split-image rangefinder and microprism collar options, for improved manual focusing.

Historical Context

The Nikkormat FTn was introduced at a time when Nikon was expanding its market reach beyond the professional photojournalist base served by the Nikon F. While the Nikon F remained the gold standard for ruggedness and modularity, its high cost limited accessibility. The Nikkormat line—produced under a separate brand name but by the same company—allowed Nippon Kogaku to offer a camera with nearly identical optical and mechanical performance at a lower price, appealing to enthusiasts and working photographers who needed reliability without the full system cost.

The FTn’s most significant advancement over the original FT was its updated meter coupling system, designed to work optimally with newer Nikon lenses that featured the "instant return" aperture mechanism. This allowed the lens to remain wide open for focusing and only stop down when the exposure was made, improving viewfinder brightness and focusing ease. Competitors at the time included the Canon FX (1964), Pentax Spotmatic (1964), and Minolta SRT-101 (1966), all of which offered TTL metering. However, the FTn distinguished itself with its robust build, precise metering, and seamless integration with the rapidly growing Nikon F-lens ecosystem.

Collectibility & Value

Today, the Nikkormat FTn is valued by collectors and film photographers for its mechanical reliability, excellent viewfinder, and compatibility with modern Nikon DSLR and mirrorless systems via adapters. While not as rare as the Nikon F2, the FTn is considered a solid mid-tier vintage SLR with steady demand. In good working condition, prices typically range from $150 to $300 USD, depending on shutter accuracy, meter functionality, and included accessories such as original strap or lens.

When purchasing an FTn, buyers should verify the shutter operation across all speeds, check for mirror bounce or sluggish return, and inspect the light seals (which often degrade and should be replaced). The CdS meter requires a 1.35V mercury battery (PX625 or equivalent), now obsolete; modern substitutes like Wein Cells or zinc-air batteries can work but may require recalibration. A non-functional meter is common but not critical, as the camera operates mechanically. Lenses with the "N" designation (e.g., Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 "N") are particularly desirable pairings due to their optical quality and historical significance.

Similar Cameras

Pentax Spotmatic F – 35mm SLR with TTL metering, M42 screw mount, produced 1973–1976
Minolta SRT-101 – 35mm SLR with CLC metering, SR-mount, known for bright viewfinder and rugged build
Canon FTb – 35mm SLR with TTL metering, FD mount, produced 1971–1978
Olympus OM-1 – Compact 35mm SLR with full manual control, introduced 1972
Yashica TL Electro-X – 35mm SLR with stop-down metering, M42 mount, produced 1973–1975

Repair & Maintenance

The Nikkormat FTn uses a 1.35V mercury PX625 battery to power its CdS light meter. Since mercury batteries are no longer manufactured, users often substitute 1.5V alkaline PX625 equivalents or Wein Cell silver-oxide batteries (1.35V), though the latter may require slight meter recalibration. The camera’s mechanical shutter operates independently of battery power, so exposure can still be achieved using external meters or sunny-16 rule.

Common issues include degraded light seals (leading to light leaks), sticky shutter curtains at slow speeds, and weakened return springs on the mirror or shutter. CdS cells can deteriorate over time, causing inaccurate or non-responsive meter readings. Professional CLA (Clean, Lubricate, Adjust) services are recommended for heavily used bodies. Replacement focusing screens and foam seals are available from specialty vintage camera suppliers. Due to its modular design and widespread production, parts availability remains relatively good, and repair difficulty is moderate for experienced technicians.