| Lens | Rating | Comments |
| 105 mm f/2.5 Nikkor-P·C (Gauss Type)
[lenses labelled P·C are non-AI, |
5 | Nikon redesigned the popular 105 mm in 1972 and choose to
use a new Gauss-type design (5 elements in 4 groups) instead of the earlier
tested and tried Sonnar formula. Probably they did this because of the 105
mm's growing popularity as a portrait lens. Since the Gauss formula gave
better performance towards the near focusing limit this seems a wise move.
The first batch evidently were released without multi-coating and carried
the 'P' designation (I own one of them), but these were quickly replaced by
multicoated 'P·C'-labelled lenses.
Current versions are outfitted with rubberised focusing collars and the lens data are removed. Compared to the earlier type of the 105/2.5 Nikkor, the new formula offered even better image definition, enhanced close-range performance, and a much improved colour saturation for the multi-coated versions. It performed better than its predecessor wide open, and delivered tremendously sharp images from f/4 onwards. Flare is only a problem under the most extreme of adverse light conditions and ghosting is rarely a threat to image quality. During the years, it has undergone some external changes, but the optical formula survived to this day. This is one of the truly great lenses of all times and a definite Nikon classic. It easily holds its own again any modern lens - what a pity that this prime lens lost its popularity during the onslaught of low-speed, medium-quality AF zooms. Oh well, the general public always get what they want - don't they. |
Evaluations By Bjørn Rørslett