Nikon SP camera history

The 1950s was a boom era for 35mm rangefinder cameras and Leica was not the only thorn in Nikon's side. Zeiss and Canon were both in the top league with fine products. Nikon needed to go one better than its S2 introduced in December 1954, the same year as Leica's M3 camera.

When the SP was introduced in 1957, the camera's sophisticated viewing system required a second frosted window to illuminate the projected frame lines for six different focal length lenses. A long front window was installed which radically changed the Nikon rangefinder camera model appearance. Black enamel transformed the SP's further, establishing it as a leading professional tool, which is what the 'P' in SP stands for. A major feature which attracted the professional photographers and photojournalits to the SP, was its optional S36 motor drive - virtually identical to the F36 model used for the Nikon F slr launched in 1959.

There are many other similarities between the Nikon F reflex and the S type rangefinder. The angular body shape, removable back and the design of most of the top plate controls were taken from the rangefinder. Many other parts, including the F's quilted titanium shutter curtains are interchangeable between the two models.

All the S models except the SP had ceased production by the early 60s. The 'Pro' lingered on until 1966 when Nikon finally axed the line. Many clean examples of vintage Nikon S rangefinder cameras can be found for sale today. The re-issued limited edition models of the S3-2000 and SP-2005 cameras were sold with modern multicoated retro look 50 and 35mm lenses but the Contax type lens bayonet mount remains the same as in earlier models.