Artra Lab Nonikkor-MC 35mm f/1.4 (1980s)

Nikon Z (DX/FX)

Review

The Artra Lab Nonikkor-MC 35mm f/1.4, a lens rooted in the 1980s, is a fascinating piece of optical engineering that has found its new life on the Nikon Z mount system. Renowned for its stellar low-light performance and beautiful bokeh, this manual-focus lens attracts both vintage gear enthusiasts and modern photographers looking for a unique perspective.

Build Quality and Design

This lens features a solid metal construction that exudes durability and confidence typical of vintage lenses. Its tactile focus ring is smooth and provides excellent resistance, allowing for precise adjustments in manual focus. The compact size makes it a convenient companion for street photography and portrait sessions alike. The design is minimalist yet functional, with cleaned-up markings that enhance usability without adding clutter.

Optical Performance

When it comes to image quality, the Nonikkor-MC 35mm f/1.4 truly shines. It delivers sharp images, especially when stopped down to f/2.8 or f/4, making it suitable for a range of subjects. The lens performs admirably in low-light conditions, allowing for great handheld shots without significant noise or loss of detail. The classic bokeh is dreamy, creating a pleasing separation between the subject and the background, which is highly desirable for portraiture.

However, there are a few optical quirks to be aware of. At maximum aperture, it exhibits some noticeable vignetting and soft corners, especially when photographing landscapes or architecture. While these characteristics might be appealing for some types of imagery, they may not be forgiving if you intend to use the lens exclusively for critical sharpness.

Compatibility

Adapting the Nonikkor-MC 35mm f/1.4 to the Nikon Z mount is seamless, thanks to various quality adapters available in the market. This makes it accessible for those who appreciate using legacy lenses without compromising on performance. However, as a fully manual lens, you must remember that you will lose autofocus capabilities, which could be a dealbreaker for some photographers.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent low-light performance with f/1.4 aperture.
• Beautiful bokeh that enhances portraits.
• Solid build quality with a classic, ergonomic design.
• Sharp images when stopped down.

Cons

• Noticeable vignetting and soft corners at f/1.4.
• Fully manual focus may not suit all photographers.
• Requires an adapter for use on Nikon Z mount.

Verdict

The Artra Lab Nonikkor-MC 35mm f/1.4 is a charmingly vintage lens that offers a unique character and impressive performance, particularly for creative photographers who enjoy the challenge of manual focus. While it may have its optical limitations and may not appeal to those who prefer convenience over craftsmanship, its ability to create stunning imagery remains unmatched. If you are ready to embrace a more hands-on approach and want that classic lens character, this vintage gem will certainly enrich your photography arsenal.