【Mint】Nikon Series E Zoom 75-150mm f/3.5 Ai-s Telephoto Lens from Japan #E0260

• Focus ring works smoothly
• Zoom ring works smoothly
• Aperture ring clicks properly
• Aperture blades move smoothly

• Slight haze on an inner (middle) element. It has minimal effect on normal shooting.
• No fungus
• No scratches
• No balsam separation

• Brand: Nikon
• Model: Series E Zoom 75-150mm f/3.5
• Lens Type: Manual Focus Telephoto Zoom Lens
• Lens Mount: Nikon F Mount (Ai-S)
• Compatible Cameras: Nikon F-mount film SLRs and DSLRs (manual focus), mirrorless cameras via adapter
• Format: 35mm Full Frame
• Focal Length: 75–150mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/3.5 (constant)
• Minimum Aperture: f/32
• Lens Construction: 12 Elements in 9 Groups
• Angle of View: 31°40' – 16°
• Minimum Focusing Distance: 1 m (3.3 ft)
• Focus Type: Manual Focus
• Zoom Type: One-touch push-pull
• Aperture Coupling: Ai-S
• Depth-of-Field Scale: Yes
• Filter Size: 52mm
• Weight (Approx.): 520 g
• Made in: Japan

The Nikon Series E Zoom 75-150mm f/3.5 is a celebrated manual-focus telephoto zoom with a cult following among photographers who appreciate beautiful rendering. Although it belongs to Nikon's more affordable Series E line, it has long been praised for image quality that punches far above its price. Many consider it one of the best portrait zooms of the manual-focus era.

Its 12-element, 9-group optical design produces images that are sharp yet gentle, with smooth, creamy out-of-focus areas and warm, natural colour. The constant f/3.5 aperture is impressively bright for a vintage telephoto zoom, giving good subject separation and an easy-to-focus viewfinder image. Its rendering is especially flattering for skin tones and soft natural light. As with most lenses, stopping down one or two stops from maximum aperture brings out its best edge sharpness and contrast.

The one-touch push-pull design lets you zoom and focus with a single ring, which is fast and intuitive once familiar. The lens is compact and relatively light, balancing well on both film bodies and modern cameras. The Ai-S coupling provides full compatibility with Nikon's manual-focus cameras, including the FG, FA, FM2 and FE2. Its controls fall naturally under the fingers, making it comfortable to use during long shooting sessions.

The 75-150mm range is ideal for portraits, from head-and-shoulders framing to tighter headshots, as well as candid street photography, events and outdoor detail work. It is also a pleasant lens for flowers and nature in the garden or park, where its soft background rendering shines. It encourages you to explore new subjects and perspectives, which is one of the joys of photography.

Thanks to the Nikon F mount, this lens remains remarkably versatile. It mounts directly on Nikon manual-focus film bodies such as the FM, FE, FM2, FE2, FA and F3, and on many Nikon DSLRs; higher-end models such as the D7000 series, D300 series, D700, D800 series and Df can even meter with it once the lens data is entered. With a simple adapter it also works beautifully on Nikon Z, Sony E, Fujifilm X, Canon RF and Micro Four Thirds mirrorless cameras, where focus peaking and magnification make precise manual focusing easy.

On mirrorless cameras, the lens has become a favourite for both stills and video thanks to its smooth rendering and constant aperture. On APS-C bodies it provides a longer telephoto reach, making it useful for sports and distant subjects while maintaining its attractive look. It is the kind of versatility that turns a piece of gear into a long-term companion rather than a short-term purchase.

The Series E 75-150mm f/3.5 is still in demand because it offers a distinctive, flattering character combined with genuinely good sharpness, at a price that remains very accessible. It is proof that great results do not always require an expensive lens. In a market full of disposable products, well-made classic equipment like this offers lasting value. Its enduring appeal across generations of photographers speaks volumes about its quality.

For portrait photographers, vintage lens enthusiasts or Nikon film shooters looking for a compact, bright telephoto zoom, the Nikon Series E 75-150mm f/3.5 is a wonderful choice. We highly recommend it as one of the most charming and rewarding lenses of the classic Nikon system. It would make an excellent addition to your collection or a thoughtful gift for a fellow photography enthusiast.