Nikon Nikonos RS (1992)
The Nikonos RS was the world's first underwater SLR, and it had autofocus. Nikon released it in 1992 as the latest in the Nikonos line, which ran from 1963 to 2001. Earlier Nikonos models were rugged but fairly simple viewfinder cameras. The RS added through-the-lens viewing, autofocus, and aperture-priority or full manual exposure control, all without a separate housing.
The camera used standard 35mm film (24 × 36mm frames) and was built around Nikon's dedicated R-UW autofocus lens mount. Lenses included the R-UW Nikkor 2.8/28, a 13mm f/2.8, a 20-35mm f/2.8 zoom, and a 50mm f/2.8. It was rated to 100 meters without any special underwater housing and offered TTL flash control. The viewfinder was described as a "big and bright action style finder." With the 50mm lens it weighed a hefty 3 kg 234 g, though one dealer noted it feels lighter underwater.
The Phoblographer has called the Nikonos RS "the dream of many film photographers." It remains a sturdy, all-round camera with no real modern equivalent. A Kodak DCS 425 Digital Nikonos (1996) was later based on the RS body.
Surviving documentation on the RS is thin. No original price, production totals, or detailed specs like shutter speed ranges or battery type are readily recorded. Kamerastore listings note its autofocus R-UW mount and TTL flash control. The camera remains a sought-after collector's item, with used bodies appearing at prices around €590.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.