If you're getting into film, the Nikon FM is basically the GOAT starter camera. Made in Japan (1977–1982), fully mechanical, no batteries needed except for the light meter — so even if it dies on you mid-shoot, the camera keeps working. Built like a tank (copper-aluminium body) and still going strong decades later. Comes with the Nikkor 50mm f/2 Ai lens, which is sharp, punchy, and very easy to use.
The specs, for the nerds
Manual focus, manual exposure 35mm SLR
Mechanical shutter, 1 sec–1/1000 sec + Bulb mode
Takes 2x LR44/SR44 batteries (meter only)
Nikon F-mount (works with AI and non-AI lenses)
Flash sync at 1/125 sec
~580g, so it's got some satisfying weight to it
Condition —
Cosmetically a well used version of the classic Nikon FM 35mm SLR Camera. Lots of brassing but I think this adds lot of character to the camera and make it unique (we have not tried to hide them in any way, quiet the opposite). The photos clearly show its condition.
The focusing screen has tiny marks but you genuinely won't notice while shooting. As you can see on the pictures from our workshop, all gooey foams have been replaced by fresh one.
We ran a full test roll of Kentmere 100 through it — sample shots are in the gallery so you can see exactly what this thing can do.
What we did to the body: deep clean, replaced light seals, replaced the mirror damper, prisme and focussing screen accessed for cleaning , we opened up the bottom plate to clean everything out, cleaned and re-lubed the winding gears.
The lens: — no scratches, no fungus, no haze, some odds internal specks. Smooth focus, sharp results.
Everything works — tested with real film
Meter: accurate
Shutter speeds: all tested and correct, 500 and 1000 slightly over the rating.
Self-timer: works
Bulb mode: works
Flash: synced and functioning
Film advance, take-up, release, rewind: all smooth
Manual + Bulb exposure: both accurate
What you get
Nikon FM body + Nikkor 50mm f/2 Ai lens
Soft release button
2x LR44 batteries (so you can start shooting immediately)
Lens cap
A genuinely Nikon nylon neck strap
