AIS Nikkor 28 mm f/2.8

The first version of the 28 mm appeared in 1960 in the form of the mediocre Nikkor 28 mm f/3.5 (6 lenses in 6 groups, minimum focus distance = 0.6 m). In 1975, this lens was slightly modified, the image quality increased and the minimum focusing distance was reduced (0.3 m). In 1977 the AI version of this wideangle was introduced. In 1981 the production of the AIS version started.

The 28/2.8 was introduced in 1974. Its 7 elements design (7 groups) was a mediocre performer. A simple 5-element formula was employed for the 28 mm f/2.8 E (1979). This lens was developed for the SLR-beginners and the image quality was not so convincing. Nevertheless, I owned the first version of the AF 28/2.8 (1986) which had the same design as the 28 mm E-series. Its quality was good when stopped down. Distorsion, in particular, was very well controlled. Therefore, I believe that the acceptable contrast of the former AF 28/2.8 should be attributed to an improved multi-coating treatment.

In 1981 Nikon introduced the new AIS 28/2.8, which employed a 8 elements design. Its CRC-system permits to focus down to 0.2 m and to yield sharp images for landscape as well as for close-up photography. Distorsion and vignetting at full aperture were very well controlled. This lens can be rightfully be considered one of the sharpest wide-angle lenses of all.

Circeo National Park

Treja River

The Temple of Athena Pronaia, Delphi (Greece)

All images © Copyright Riccardo Polini