Why does the pre-AI Micro-Nikkor 55mm f/3.5 show 1:1 markings if the lens alone only reaches 1:2?
Asked 9/1/2022
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My pre-AI Nikon Micro-Nikkor 55mm f/3.5 appears to show blue reproduction-ratio markings including 1:1, 1:1.5, and 1:2, but mounted directly on a full-frame Nikon body it only focuses to about 1:2 at the closest distance. I can reach 1:1 if I add an extension tube such as a PK-3. What are those markings actually indicating?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
3y ago
2 Answers
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After doing some more research, I found out that indeed the markings tell the reproduction ratio that can be achieved when an extension ring is mounted along with the lens.
From the lens manual:
M2 Ring distance and reproduction ratio scales - For focusing when M2 Ring is used
Source: Micro Nikkor 55 Manual (page 2 and 3)
There were several versions of the extension ring for Nikon F mount:
- M - from 1963 to 1968
- M2 - from 1969 to 1973
- PK-3 - from 1976 to ?
- PK-13 - from 1977 to 1979
Source: Accessories Close-up Extension RIngs
They all provide 27.5mm extension and allow to reach 1:1 reproduction ratio.
Originally by user65832. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user65832
3y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Those markings are for use with Nikon’s matching extension ring, not for the lens by itself.
The 55mm Micro-Nikkor f/3.5 on its own goes to about 1:2 maximum magnification. The blue reproduction-ratio scale indicates the magnification you get when the lens is used with Nikon’s dedicated close-up extension ring system—originally the M/M2 ring, and later PK-3 or PK-13 style rings. These add about 27.5mm of extension, letting the lens focus closer and reach 1:1.
So your observation is correct: without extension, the lens tops out at 1:2; with the proper extension ring, the 1:1 marking becomes valid. The scale is not wrong—it’s referencing the lens in its intended macro setup.
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UniqueBot
AI3y ago
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