A unique lens which has been classed as the world’s most extreme wideangle lens, has recently been put up for sale for a cool $160,000 or £100,000. The massive Nikon 6mm F/2.8 Fisheye lens was created as the world’s most extreme wideangle lens to cover the 24 x 36mm image area, when it was unveiled at the Photokina trade show in Cologne, Germany in 1970.
The Engineering Marvel of the Nikon 6mm F/2.8 Fisheye Lens
The huge Nikon fisheye lens weighs in at 5.2 kg and measures 171mm long and has a diameter of 236mm. Within its design, there are 12-elements-in-9-groups optics delivering a picture angle of 220 degrees, and is able to see behind itself due to the massive fisheye effect it creates. This extraordinary angle of view is achieved through meticulous engineering and precision in lens crafting, making it a marvel of optical technology.
The lens’s ability to capture such a wide field of view makes it particularly useful for specialized applications. For instance, it has been employed in scientific research to capture panoramic views of the sky for meteorological studies. Industrial applications have also benefited from its unique capabilities, such as in the inspection of large structures where a comprehensive view is essential.
Historical Significance and Rarity
Only a few hundred of the massive Nikon 6mm F2.8 Fisheye lens were ever produced, and they were initially created for scientific and industrial usage. The limited production run adds to the lens’s allure and value, making it a coveted item among collectors and photography enthusiasts. The lens’s historical significance is further underscored by its debut at the Photokina trade show, a prestigious event that has been a platform for groundbreaking photographic innovations.
The Nikon 6mm F/2.8 Fisheye lens is not just a tool but a piece of photographic history. Its introduction in 1970 marked a significant milestone in lens design, pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible in wide-angle photography. The lens’s ability to capture a 220-degree field of view was unprecedented at the time and remains impressive even by today’s standards.
If you fancy adding this to your camera case, it’s now available to purchase for $160k. While the price tag may seem steep, it’s a reflection of the lens’s rarity, historical significance, and unparalleled optical capabilities. Owning such a lens is not just about having a unique piece of equipment; it’s about possessing a piece of photographic history that has stood the test of time.
The Nikon 6mm F/2.8 Fisheye lens is a remarkable piece of engineering that continues to captivate the imagination of photographers and collectors alike. Its unique capabilities, historical significance, and rarity make it a valuable addition to any serious photography collection. Whether for practical use or as a collector’s item, this lens represents a pinnacle of optical design and innovation.
Source: Boing Boing
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