NikonGear'23
Gear Talk => Lens Talk => Topic started by: rosko on January 04, 2020, 13:20:23
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Thanks the growing mirrorless market, adapters are becoming unavoidable accessories for our hobby/trade, making us ''the new Lords of the Rings.''.. ;D
Tell us everything about these useful stuff you use or you will buy :
#quality;
#prices;
#usefulness;
#suppliers, ect.
I start showing some of this rings with my range of adapters I use with my Z6. Thanks them, my ''lenses budget'' stays affordable and I can experiment exotic pieces of glass.
I am not happy with all of them, that will be discussed later.
You can see below : L/M 39, M42, Exacta, MD (Rokkor), FTZ (nikon F), 58mm NF. Leica M, all of them for Z mount.
Francis.
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Francis, I agree this seems to be the way of the world for the moment! How long before the adapters weigh more than the actual camera? ::)
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Francis, I agree this seems to be the way of the world for the moment! How long before the adapters weigh more than the actual camera? ::)
Probably never, Mike !
I think adapters will follow the lens technology (material wise). Perhaps we will see soon camera bodies made of carbon fibers, like the recent Airbus A350 ? If so, adapter makers will certainly do the same.
The heaviest of my Z adapters is the MD/Z. (124gr). I admit that it's not light for an adapter, but the Z mount diameter doesn't help.
I am not talking about the FTZ which is a particular accessory.
The lighter one is the M39/Z (64gr) and allows to use the tiny Leica lenses, then the Leica M/Z adapter also adapting Leica lenses.
This is one more reason I am going toward Leica M/m39 mount lenses, just a matter of coherence, I mean why to buy a lighter camera if you mount a bulky/heavy lens on it ?
Note that I use this light system for travel. The another mount I use, is for different purposes (studio, experiments, macro/close-up and wildlife photography).
Francis.
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Love the title, Francis. :)
Shining in the morning sun on a bit dusty table is my humble collection of the "Rings" I currently own.
Having experienced various problems with more affordable adapters, I settled on either Rayqual from Japan or Novoflex from Germany. I had Rayqual ones for Fuji X bodies but sold them when I switched to Sigma fp. With these rather expensive but neatly made adapters, the infinity focus with the properly assembled lenses like the venerable MF Nikkors is ensured, which is beneficial for shooting celestial bodies or distant scenes.
The two on the left side are Novoflex L-mount (the bayonet mount for the Leica-Panasonic-Sigma alliance) adapters for the Nikon F mout and the M42 mount respectively.
The three rings on the right side are BORG camera mounts for Sony E- and m4/3 mounts originally developed to attach digital cameras to their astronomical telescopes. Their standard mount thread is 49.8mm, and the 49.8mm to 42mm adapter ring help the camera bodies attach to various exotic lenses and contraptions.
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I used two E to Z adapters on the Z6 recently.
Pixco
(https://files.catbox.moe/1sgg1p.jpg)
Bad fit, with wiggle play and clunky release lever that covered lower function button on camera. Avoid.
Gabale
(https://files.catbox.moe/8bbvxg.jpg)
Good snug fit, minimal release lever. Recommended.
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I used two E to Z adapters on the Z6 recently.
Pixco
(https://files.catbox.moe/1sgg1p.jpg)
Bad fit, with wiggle play and clunky release lever that covered lower function button on camera. Avoid.
Looks very much like Fotodiox m4/3 to Sony NEX adapter that I had bought just out of curiosity. It had rough edges and burrs on the routed parts. I feared that the metal particles would eventually fall on the sensor after some repetition of mounting and unmounting. I never dared to use it.
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I purchased the Pixco Nikkor S (RF)-Z adapter to use my old rangefinder Nikkors on the Z cameras. The adapter looks nice, but the fit, in particular to the S bayonet, is poor.
There is a 'noname' S-Z adapter sold by a German dealer that fits my rangefinder lenses well, though.
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Thanks for your contributions !
I am heading France now and probably NO internet connection for couple of weeks... ::)
Enjoy the beginning of 2020 ! ;)
Francis.
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I use a Sony A7RII body, which has the advantage of having a veritable plethora of cheap Chinese adapters available. Certainly, when using automatic lenses, it is worth having a decent name-brand adapter such as Kipon or Metabones, but for vintage lenses, the cheap Chinese adapters generally work a treat. I have a number of focusing helicoids in various diameters for adapting lenses of all kinds. They come in various lengths and diameters of M42, M52, M58 and M65. To these one can add various adapter rings and clamps to secure lens barrels for projection lenses and the like. My favorites are the helicoid adapters for Nikon F, Canon EOS and M42 lenses, which, when fully retracted, allow for infinity focus, but which can be extended 20mm or so to provide continuous close focusing.
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There are at least 3 "Smart" adapters for Canon EF to Nikon Z released "into the wild".
https://techartpro.com/?product=techart-canon-ef-nikon-z-autofocus-adapter-tzc-01
https://www.fringeradapter.com/canon-ef-to-nikon-z
https://www.fringeradapter.com/blog/fringer-ef-nz-smart-adapter-engineering-sample-got-tested
http://altson.net/single-post-NZ.html
Scroll down to compare differences listed for compatible Canon EF lenses. Fringer state:
"Theoretically, it supports all Z mount cameras released in the future. If there is any problem, we may release a new firmware to keep the compatibility
We haven't tested all lenses yet. If any lens is found to be incompatible, please let us know. As long as a lens sample can be found, we may fix the problem by a new firmware release asap."
Most importantly, each brand claims to be able to upgrade the adapter Firmware via USB.
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I recently bought a Pixco Leica R/ Z adapter... So much play ! >:( >:(
I had bought previously 2 Pixco adapters : M42//Z and L39/Z and I couldn't notice any play as they fit lenses with threads, hence no play noticed.
Actually le Leica R mount is a similar system as the Nikon : a pin clicks inside a groove and blocks the lens. In the pixco adapter, the pin diameter is 2.40mm and the groove of the R lens is 2.49mm wide, hence the play.
In addition, there is a slight play between the adapter and the Z body... ::)
So, I keep an eye on any comments about a different make adapter, I can cut the one I have to fit an exotic lenses, at least.
Let me know if you are happy with a different make.
Francis.
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I recently bought a Pixco Leica R/ Z adapter... So much play ! >:( >:(
I had bought previously 2 Pixco adapters : M42//Z and L39/Z and I couldn't notice any play as they fit lenses with threads, hence no play noticed.
Actually le Leica R mount is a similar system as the Nikon : a pin clicks inside a groove and blocks the lens. In the pixco adapter, the pin diameter is 2.40mm and the groove of the R lens is 2.49mm wide, hence the play.
In addition, there is a slight play between the adapter and the Z body... ::)
So, I keep an eye on any comments about a different make adapter, I can cut the one I have to fit an exotic lenses, at least.
Let me know if you are happy with a different make.
Francis.
I would only recommend Novoflex and Rayqual. As I mentioned in my post above, I only trust these brands, even though they are in the highest price range. Both makes various adapters for Nikon Z body including the one for Leica R lenses.
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Thanks for this information, Akira !
Will have a look on the makes you said.
The above mentioned adapter is terrible ! Even the little button commanding the pin is wobbling... ::)
Cheers, Francis.
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every single item I got from Novoflex works exactly a promised. Very good brand. precision engineering.
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every single item I got from Novoflex works exactly a promised. Very good brand. precision engineering.
Cabbot agree more!! And they are willing and able to help if there is a problem - even talked to their CEO once to solve a (very rare and exotic) problem I had.
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The K&F Concept Adapter for Nikon RF (rangefinder) lenses to Z mount is the first enocuntered by me that makes these lenses focus with correct infinity focus. It is very sturdily built and well finished too. The asking price is not very different from other similar mount adapters. I have ordered more of the K&F units.
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AMEDEO is the BEST :o :o :o
#quality; VERY GOOD
#prices; EXPENSIVE
#usefulness; INDISPENSIBLE
#suppliers, ect. HARD TO FIND
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Agree on all points there, Richard. However, in order to use the gear combinations I wish one has to settle for less than the top notch accessories.
I finally found an adapter for my vintage Nikkor rangefinder lenses on the Z's that really worked as it ought to.
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Agree on all points there, Richard. However, in order to use the gear combinations I wish one has to settle for less than the top notch accessories.
I finally found an adapter for my vintage Nikkor rangefinder lenses on the Z's that really worked as it ought to.
yes. the best combo is always to buy XXX mount to Leica M in my observation.
and then from Leica M to your desired mount :o :o :o
if i only knew this formula i would have saved money long ago, but alas, i bought an Amedeo Sony adapter :(
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As per Ric - I use the Yeenon Leica to Nikon Z with helicoid and have M42 to M as well as M42 straight to Z both in K&F concept.
The Yeenon works well and is nicely machined (it looks exactly like the Shoten helicoid). Here on minimum and maximum extension
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Recent post on the Fringer AF adapter: Canon EF to Nikon Z
https://www.stevehuffphoto.com/2020/02/14/nikon-z-with-canon-glass-and-af-meet-the-fringer-adapter-by-alexandra-shapiro/
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I bought a cheap FOTOFOX dumb Sony E to Nikon Z adapter for the Voigtlander 15/4.5 III. The adapter is slightly too thin (by about 0.1mm as measured with my digital caliper). By the lens equation, 0.1mm is the extension required for a 15mm lens to focus to 2.265m. Indeed, at f/4.5 infinity focus on my Z6 is achieved just slightly from the 2m mark. Unfortunately, the 15/4.5 Super Wide Heliar does seem to have floating elements, at least the rear group moves at a different rate than the front barrel. This means that I'm likely not getting all that this lens is capable of. Of course I have no way of checking whether the lens itself is within tolerance.
Does anyone know a Sony E to Nikon Z adapter that is dimensionally accurate?
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Has anyone found an extension ring for the Nikon Z cameras that is very, very thin?
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15mm is the thinnest known to me. Anything thinner has to be a DIY project. I do have the parts, but not the inclination to go ahead and shave a few more mm off.
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Has anyone found an extension ring for the Nikon Z cameras that is very, very thin?
I have seen 10 and 11mm rings sold on ebay. I'm assuming you need thinner than that.
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10-11mm with Z bayonets on either side? I'll have to search for such. I guess they don't relay the signals through the adapter?
EDIT: most interesting, I found some from Meike with contact pass-through.
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10-11mm with Z bayonets on either side? I'll have to search for such. I guess they don't relay the signals through the adapter?
See https://www.ebay.ch/itm/Meike-MK-Z-AF1-Macro-Extension-Tube-Adapter-Ring-for-Nikon-Z-Mount-Z6-Z7-Camera/254427939428?hash=item3b3d164264:g:~scAAOSwOb9d1UO0 (https://www.ebay.ch/itm/Meike-MK-Z-AF1-Macro-Extension-Tube-Adapter-Ring-for-Nikon-Z-Mount-Z6-Z7-Camera/254427939428?hash=item3b3d164264:g:~scAAOSwOb9d1UO0) for an 11+18mm set,
and https://www.ebay.ch/itm/Kenko-10-16mm-DG-Extension-Tube-Set-for-Nikon-Z-Mount/401988266648?hash=item5d985e2a98:g:KUkAAOSwbcBd66MF (https://www.ebay.ch/itm/Kenko-10-16mm-DG-Extension-Tube-Set-for-Nikon-Z-Mount/401988266648?hash=item5d985e2a98:g:KUkAAOSwbcBd66MF) for a 10+16mm set.
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Earlier Kenko products (for F mount) were rather shoddy. I think I'll order the Meike instead. *Done*
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Thanks for the information and the links. The Meike double-adapter (11mm/18mm) is very interesting. Especially with the contact pass through. I wonder how it will work with the FTZ-adapter.
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Not all combinations work with the FTZ. One has to try in practice.
I think it's better to put such extension onto native Z lenses.
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Earlier Kenko products (for F mount) were rather shoddy. I think I'll order the Meike instead. *Done*
I bought the Meike 11+18 tubes in december, they work fine with Z lenses, and they work even connected to an FTZ, they pass on all the signals to all lenses I tried (native and chipped). Naturally you have to keep all your contacts spotlessly clean!
Ciao from Massimo
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I bought the Meike 11+18 tubes in december, they work fine with Z lenses, and they work even connected to an FTZ, they pass on all the signals to all lenses I tried (native and chipped). Naturally you have to keep all your contacts spotlessly clean!
That is great news. Thanks for the update, Massimo.
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I bought the Meike 11+18 tubes in december, they work fine with Z lenses, and they work even connected to an FTZ, they pass on all the signals to all lenses I tried (native and chipped). Naturally you have to keep all your contacts spotlessly clean!
Ciao from Massimo
Thanks for posting about your experiences.
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I was hoping for an extension like the Nikon 8mm AI Extension Tube PK-11A, which I have used a lot in the past. with some success.
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I think 8mm would be pushing the limits of what is possible while ensuring adequate material thickness. I have not seen any that are thinner than 10mm. It is tempting to fire up a CAD program and try to design one. But then you need someone to manufacture it. Maybe someone like Amedeo Muscelli (his adapters have been mentioned in this thread) could help.
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I think 8mm would be pushing the limits of what is possible while ensuring adequate material thickness. I have not seen any that are thinner than 10mm. It is tempting to fire up a CAD program and try to design one. But then you need someone to manufacture it. Maybe someone like Amedeo Muscelli (his adapters have been mentioned in this thread) could help.
Well, 8mm works well on the Nikon DSLRs via the PK-11A that I have used for Please explain why this would not work on the Z flange.
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The K1 extension ring is only 5.8mm thick, but has no pass-through mechanical or electronic contacts. This is probably about the thinnest extension tube that is physically possible. I imagine an equivalent Z-mount extension tube would be possible, and it should be possible to include pass-through electronic contacts.
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Well, 8mm works well on the Nikon DSLRs via the PK-11A that I have used for Please explain why this would not work on the Z flange.
The contacts are positioned differently between F and Z mounts, and so are the bayonet details and the release lever. I quickly measured the original parts of male+female Z mounts and the contacts that I got from Nikon, and anything narrower than about 10mm would be next to impossible. If one removed the contact pass-through, perhaps 1mm thinner is feasible if the release can be remodelled to fit. Thus, the dream of a Z-version of the K1 has to go.
If commercial alternatives are around 11mm, stick to them.
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Please explain why this would not work on the Z flange.
Well, I had a quick look at the mount and took a few measurements. The issue is having adequate material thickness where the narrow part of the male mount transitions into the female one. But to really find the limits I would need to make a drawing/3d model.
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It would be easier to manufacture a replacement mount that is longer by the amount you need and then to attach it to the lens. A cheaper alternative would be to put shims between the mounting surface of the bayonet plate and the bayonet plate itself, possibly combined with using longer screws. This is much less flexible but you could achieve arbitrarily small extension.
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Adding a thin ring to the rear of the lens, then bolt the mount onto that ring is of course feasible. I would hardly call that an extension ring though, rather a modified lens. There might be additional issues with the cabling to the contacts.
Shimming the mount must be done on the lens' side. Due to the position of the mating contact surface, only the tiniest shim up to 0.1mm can be used in the camera's mount, lest all electronic communication stops working. For the lens bayonet, up to 0.6mm might be added, but anything more again breaks the communication to the camera.
Don't mention this idea to the Nikon engineers designing the optics of the Z system, as they would cringe by the thought of their brainchild optics being abused. Extension is *never* without negative side effects and the only way to mitigate this issue is having the extension incorporated in the original optical design.
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Well, I had a quick look at the mount and took a few measurements. The issue is having adequate material thickness where the narrow part of the male mount transitions into the female one. But to really find the limits I would need to make a drawing/3d model.
Simone, just putting a female mount on top of a male Z mount makes more than 8mm of thickness without any consideration of how to work a release lever (I do have the parts).
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Simone, just putting a female mount on top of a male Z mount makes more than 8mm of thickness without any consideration of how to work a release lever (I do have the parts).
I'm assuming you have the female mount that normally sits in the camera and a male one that normally sits on the lens, and you are stacking them on top of each other. If I'm not mistaken though, a custom ring could be made such that the male 'lands' of the lens, i.e. the parts of the male mount that stick out, would sit just on top of the 'lands' of the female mount, reducing the extension to the sum of the depths of male and female lands, which seems to total approx. 3.5mm. This would result in extensions of 3.5mm and upward. Let's say 4mm to play it 'safe'. The big question is whether the remaining space is sufficient for the material thickness and structural stability of the ring.
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Shimming the mount must be done on the lens' side. Due to the position of the mating contact surface, only the tiniest shim up to 0.1mm can be used in the camera's mount, lest all electronic communication stops working. For the lens bayonet, up to 0.6mm might be added, but anything more again breaks the communication to the camera.
Are you talking about putting shims between the male lens mount and the next surface (I don't know the right name) in the lens? Are the contacts not connected to the electronics via cable? Then what I suggested above may not work at all.
EDIT: I guess not, since you covered that in your first sentence. But shimming the mount on the 'exterior', besides possibly messing up electronic contact, would increase the distance between the spring-loaded parts of the mount and the front surface, requiring more force and potential damage to the mount. This distance seems to have a fairly large tolerance, so maybe electronic contact would cease before mounting/unmounting becomes a problem.
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Your latter assumption is correct.
Don't forget to include space for the lens release lever to move and work in your calculations. There is no way one could make an independent extension as short as 4mm for the Z. Consider the K1 for F is 5.8mm and the Z mount will need more.
If one allows replacing the original mount on the lens side, much narrower values could be reached, but then we have a bespoke modification of the lens, not an extension ring.
A final point about the contacts: if the shimming is on the lens' side, the contact block moves with the mount surface itself. Thus this approach eschews the problem of lost communication to the camera. One does need to redress the internal cabling and possibly make a replacement, though.
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Your latter assumption is correct.
Don't forget to include space for the lens release lever to move and work in your calculations. There is no way one could make an independent extension as short as 4mm for the Z. Consider the K1 for F is 5.8mm and the Z mount will need more.
If one allows replacing the original mount on the lens side, much narrower values could be reached, but then we have a bespoke modification of the lens, not an extension ring.
I don't really need such a ring myself, I'm just interested in the challenge ;)
The release lever is optional, if one is willing to take the lens off the camera in order to remove the extension ring. Everything depends on how important these things are to Michael ;D. I'm thinking that the ring would be for use on a wide-angle lens...?
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How will you be able to remove a lens when there is extension without any release attached to it? The extension has to be locked to the lens otherwise there is a risk the lens will fall off by itself.* The camera can only help in the first of two necessary steps, that of releasing lens + extension.
* been there more than once in my experimental setups. Never a nice experience.
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How will you be able to remove a lens when there is extension without any release attached to it? The extension has to be locked to the lens otherwise there is a risk the lens will fall off by itself.* The camera can only help in the first of two necessary steps, that of releasing lens + extension.
* been there more than once in my experimental setups. Never a nice experience.
One could make a blind pin which is retractable from the camera side of the adapter. You would not be able to remove while mounted, but after removal from the camera the pin (perhaps on a flat spring) could be released. Think of the K1 without the tab.
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Or a small set screw...
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The modification of the mount on the lens would be easier. But I guess we are looking at this from different perspectives. If you pursue your idea further, do ensure a full coverage is given on NG :)
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I completely agree, modifying the lens is probably much simpler.
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My K&F F to Z adapter had arrived. Very solid, good value for money. And looks and handles much better with manual lenses than the clunky FTZ.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49627432162_bb8719c2f9_h.jpg)
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I have several of the K&F Concept adapters for Nik(RF)-Nik(Z), which are very good. As virtually all my F-mount lenses are "chipped", I normally stick with the FTZ to get full advantage of the lens CPU. If I do find alternatives with pass-through contacts, I'll consider them as well.
The FTZ does feel a bit "clunky", but otherwise is very well built. I had hoped for a version without the tripod mount platform though as this sometimes interferes with handling.
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I want to use my 1.4/50 Zuiko with the Z6. Which adapter is the best for the purpose? I'd like to have the aperture communicated to the camera if possible...
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An eBay search on "Olympus OM lens to nikon z" brings up dozens of adapters. Just take your pick. Note these are "dumb" adapter so no communication to the camera, as usually is the mirrorless reality. A throwback to the early '60s in that respect :(
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I want to use my 1.4/50 Zuiko with the Z6. Which adapter is the best for the purpose? I'd like to have the aperture communicated to the camera if possible...
Doesn't Z6 meter with the adapted MF lens in M or A mode?
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Yes, it does. But you have no indication of what aperture is used, and since it's step-down "technology", the EVF becomes difficult to use if you stop down too far. It is this very area in which the superiority of an OVF is best seen.
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I am still in the Nikon-F world so no Z-adapters/rings so far...….but I had a look at some of my rings/adapters...….
BR-5 and BR-2A is probably was most Nikon users has.
Then I have a T2 adapter for F-mount, a 42 to 40.5 mm ring, a 42 to 39 mm ring and a 40.5 mm reversing adapter to be used for e.g. a 50/2.8 EL-Nikkor.
The large Nikon adapter (L-F) is a F-mount to 39mm adapter. Think the "L" stands for "Leica" and adapter was intended for Leica Visoflex lenses to be mounted on Nikon F-body....but I am not 100% sure. I don't know either if Leica Visoflex lenses is something you would consider…...but adapter can be used for other purposes if you can live with the extra spacing. A very well-made adapter.
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Seem image was missing...…..try again…….
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Yes, it does. But you have no indication of what aperture is used, and since it's step-down "technology", the EVF becomes difficult to use if you stop down too far. It is this very area in which the superiority of an OVF is best seen.
As the individual eye is part of the optical system of the viewfinder, OVF or EVF, it is impossible to generalize. That said, I struggled with the OVF (my last experience with one was D750) with slow lenses even wide open (like Ai20/4.0 or AF-P DX 10-30/4.5-5.6) in dim situations. The EVF image will be grainy and jumpy in similar situations, but so far as the usability (at least to me) is concerned, an EVF or LCD wins.
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With an OVF there is always the possibility of exchanging or replacing the focusing screen to suit a particular area of application. With say a clear-glass screen and proper eye accommodation one can see surprisingly lowly lit scenes. The EVF simply gets too noisy to be of much assistance under similar circumstances.
The hardest for an EVF is dealing with a wide-angle lens in low light. One might see the image -- well, sort of -- but ascertaining focus is nearly impossible. Nowhere is this more acute than for my UV work.
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I wonder where the DSLR market will go.....if there still will be a full range of DSLRs or mirror less will take care of the lower end DSLRs so we only see some high end DSLRs in the future?
Will we see a D5700 or D5800 in the future? …..Z-50 is still a bit more expensive than the lower end DSLRs.
Will see if any new rings/adapters will be "Z" only. The new F-lenses we see come out are for the high-end market…...it seems…..
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My K&F F to Z adapter had arrived. Very solid, good value for money. And looks and handles much better with manual lenses than the clunky FTZ.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49627432162_bb8719c2f9_h.jpg)
Looks very nice, Luc.
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That kind of "dumb" adapter does nicely with an non-CPU lens. However, once the lens has a CPU inside, one either has to forego all its features, or use an adapter that transmits the signals *and* translates the communication protocol, like the FTZ. I would wish for a more compact version of the latter to improve handling with smaller lenses.
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My K&F F to Z adapter had arrived. Very solid, good value for money. And looks and handles much better with manual lenses than the clunky FTZ.
Superb combo, Luc !
The lens looks like as new as the Z body ! ;)
This adapter is a good idea for wide-angle or standart lenses indeed.
With a tripod' quick plate attached to the FTZ, you have to remove it before mounting it. Annoying...
FTZ adapter is helpful only when you use a tripod or a chipped Nikon F lens.
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Oups...
Didn't read Birna's last post, which confirm what I just said. :)
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An eBay search on "Olympus OM lens to nikon z" brings up dozens of adapters. Just take your pick. Note these are "dumb" adapter so no communication to the camera, as usually is the mirrorless reality. A throwback to the early '60s in that respect :(
Some makes say they communicate Aperture to the body, but can they also close the aperture from the body??? OM Mechanics seems pretty straight forward...
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no hurries, I still wait for the 1.2/50S as native lens before I purchase...
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Looks very nice, Luc.
Thanks John. Yes it looks quite sexy doesn't it :D
I hope it inspires me to shoot again with the AIs trio (28-50-105) I've got. I used them quite extensively with the D700. On the Df I used them less because for some reason I was unable to connect with that camera and I found correct focusing troublesome. Also my eyesight is getting worse over the years. With the Z6 and it's combination of EVF zoom and focus peaking that's not a problem anymore.
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Well, if you don't mind it's a Canon 50mm f/1.2 :o 8)
https://techartpro.com/?product=techart-canon-ef-nikon-z-autofocus-adapter-tzc-01
TECHART Canon EF – Nikon Z Autofocus Adapter (TZC-01)
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Superb combo, Luc !
The lens looks like as new as the Z body ! ;)
This adapter is a good idea for wide-angle or standart lenses indeed.
With a tripod' quick plate attached to the FTZ, you have to remove it before mounting it. Annoying...
FTZ adapter is helpful only when you use a tripod or a chipped Nikon F lens.
Thanks Francis. I do use my gear but in a careful way ;) The 50mm I bought new in 2009, I also have a AIs 28mm f2.8 and 105mm f2.5. And a 180mm f2.8 AI(s) is on my wishlist.
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Some makes say they communicate Aperture to the body, but can they also close the aperture from the body??? OM Mechanics seems pretty straight forward...
No on both questions.
Hacking the FTZ electronics and the translated communication protocol is of course entirely feasible, but likely is an infringement of Nikon's patent(s). I value my standing with Nikon higher than attempting anything in this direction.
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I don't have a Z-body yet but I have some lenses for the classic Voigtländer Prominent like 50/2 Ultron and 50/1.5 Nokton (these are the original Ultron and Nokton…..not the Japanese Cosina lenses).
Is anyone aware of a classic Prominent to Z-adapter (such an adapter needs a focus helicoid). An adapter exists to Leica M like this (and I also think to Nikon S-mount):
https://www.adorama.com/fdpminentlms.html
There also exists a Leica M to Z-mount like this:
https://nikonrumors.com/2019/04/03/7artisans-also-has-a-new-nikon-z-mount-adapter-for-leica-m-mount-lenses.aspx/
Then it should be possible to combine the two adapters and achieve infinity focus with classic 50mm Prominent lenses I guess…..
I also have a few Leica M lenses…...so Leica M adapter could be used standalone also…...in case I get a Z-body...….
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Definitively easy with Prominent-Leica M and Leica M-Z adapter. The last variety is a breeze as there are many different offerings at present. The diversity of Z adapters increases all the time. Nikon S(RF)-Z have been on the market for a long time, not all are good though, but some are excellent.
If you like a particular old lens and need two adapters to attach the lens to a Z body, consider epoxy'ing the adapters for increased stability. These adapters tend to be quite cheap and if you find a good combination, make the most of it.
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Ok.....as it seems the Leica M adapter is rather cheap I could get two of these and glue one of the two to the Prominent adapter.
I have used Loctite medium strength for similar tasks with good results but two component araldite could also be an option :-)
1. step would be to get a Z-body.....I wonder when next generation of Z-bodies will be released…….I would like a Z-DX type but with IBIS....
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A Nikon-F to Nikon-Z adapter with built-in tilt +/- 12 degrees capability listed on Ebay:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Kipon-Tilt-Adapter-for-Nikon-F-Mount-Lens-to-Nikon-Z-Mirrorless-Camera/123857972780?hash=item1cd682ae2c:g:E4oAAOSwgwFdQVLx
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I have the similar version for F-m43. Thus see no need to buy a quite expensive adapter, when I have several m43-Z adapters to combine with.
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The Meike Automatic Extension Tube Set MK-Z - AF 1, two rings 11mm and 18mm, arrived.
Good news, it works also with the FTZ and gives the correct Lens information
A quick test with the 11 and 18mm, connected with FTZ and 24-70/2.8
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My Meike kit also arrived yesterday. Everything works, however compared to the Fotodiox 15mm extension I got earlier, the Meike units definitively are much lighter and less sturdily built. Likely the material is some kind of plastic against the metal of the Fotodiox.
I did notice my 50/1.8Z can handle added extension much better than the 85/1.8Z, the latter develops visible amounts of spherical aberration, coma, loss of contrast and curvature of field. It's best to not go beyond the 11mm extension with this lens. This neatly illustrates a point I made made many times over the years: extension does impact mage quality and always in a negative manner, despite there is no glass inside. However, the carefully designed operational parameters of these advanced lenses are upset by the extension, and some lenses do respond very badly to this practice. Some lenses do better fortunately, but the outcome never is *improved* by added extension. Keep this frequently overlooked in mind -- always.
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Thanks for the update on the Meike tubes.
That aberrations increase when a lens is used in a configuration for which it was not designed seems self-evident (was this ever contested?). However, the increase in aberrations can still be small enough such that the gain in magnification yields a better image compared to e.g. cropping. Simple designs and non-retrofocus lenses take extension better in my experience, but one has to try out. I'm happy to hear that the 50/1.8Z is usable with extension. I'm not surprised about the 85/1.8Z, I have not seen a fast 85mm lens that takes extension well, although sometimes the results can still be interesting; spherical aberrations are not always a bad thing.
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My Meike kit also arrived yesterday. Everything works, however compared to the Fotodiox 15mm extension I got earlier, the Meike units definitively are much lighter and less sturdily built. Likely the material is some kind of plastic against the metal of the Fotodiox
Funnily I have just purchased a set of two Meike extension tubes.
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Simone, the belief that extension is "harmless" because there is no glass inside the ring is a common myth found, and defended, everywhere. I long ago gave up counting the number of occurrences.
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Also the M42 macro-adapter arrived. Not chipped, so no recording to Exif. However IBIS works. And in the Comments it's possible to enter the lens-data.
Z6 With the Voigtlander Color Ultron 50mm f/1.8
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The Ultron has much better bokeh than the 24-70...…..
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The Ultron has much better bokeh than the 24-70...…..
That is not comparable as the Ultron is used within it's normal distance range without extension where the 24-70/2.8 was 'abused' with a 11mm and a 18mm extension tube which is far outside the reasonable limits of that lens ;)
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My Meike kit also arrived yesterday. Everything works, however compared to the Fotodiox 15mm extension I got earlier, the Meike units definitively are much lighter and less sturdily built. Likely the material is some kind of plastic against the metal of the Fotodiox.
Yes, I noticed it is very light. Hopefully sturdy enough. An advantage may be that's not too heavy to carry with you. ;)
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A simple reversion adapter can sometimes also do the trick instead of extender rings.
This afternoon I tired a setup using an old non-ai 28/3.5 revered mounted on D5200. Magnification is quite high and requires a steady setup. Seems I hit focus about right at the 50 cent coin.
With a flash mounted it is a simple setup in the field trying to capture e.g insekts....
There is many possible combination of lenses where some probably are better then other. If a zoom works then magnification can be changed easily.
I don't think many uses reversing adapters today…..
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An old trick that has been brandished on NG before is using a reversed 36-72mm f/3.5 Nikon SE lens in conjunction with a 4T attachment (to the rear, near the camera). Very versatile and the quality is surprisingly good. You do get up to 3X magnification if memory serves. I have one or two of these setups "somewhere" in my lens cupboards. Perhaps now is the time to locate them again ans start experimenting.
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Seems to be an easy to get lens on ebay and cheap.
I remember a ring to put on the rear (front) so it is easier to preset an aperture but adjust focus at full aperture and then easy to be able to stop down for exposure. Think I have one of these rings…...somewhere…..
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Does a converter for S-mount for the internal helicoil exist? For the Z ;)
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I believe so. At least I've seen some on eBay.
I made my own based upon Amadeo for E-mount.
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Hi Bent !
Just for help :
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Camera-Adapter-Nikon-Rangefinder-Mount/dp/B07VJ2YKXT
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Thank you all.
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I am still undecided which OM to Z adapter is right for me.
Novoflex is a safe bet for 120€, K&S receives mixed reviews for 50€ and there are plenty of cheapo fabrications with no reviews at all. Stuck here.
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I suggest you start with a cheap one, just to get going with the OM lens on your Z6. If you find using that lens a pleasure, consider getting a quality adapter.
Congrats with your entry into the Z world, by the way.
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Hi Bent !
Just for help :
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Camera-Adapter-Nikon-Rangefinder-Mount/dp/B07VJ2YKXT
Do note this adapter is only intended for Nikkor rangefinder lenses with external bayonet. Not suitable for the rangefinder normals 50mm/5cm lenses.
The quality of the adapter is quite good, though. I have several of them.
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Good to know, Birna ! Thanks.
To be honest, I didn't know they were 2 different mounts.
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I was aware, and I was looking for one for the internal, but more of curiosity. I do not have anything to fit yet ;)
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I suggest you start with a cheap one, just to get going with the OM lens on your Z6. If you find using that lens a pleasure, consider getting a quality adapter.
Congrats with your entry into the Z world, by the way.
I ordered the K&F to check it out. It will arrive this week and if I do not like it, I will return it and get the Novoflex ... Then I try to rid my father from his Zuiko Collection ...
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;D ;D ;D
... Then I try to rid my father from his Zuiko Collection ...
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Good to know, Birna ! Thanks.
To be honest, I didn't know they were 2 different mounts.
The internal S-mount for the 5cm/50mm normal lenses was a heritage from the Contax camera. This allowed the lenses to be very compact as they had no helicoid of their own. You focused them using the internal helicoid of the camera. For shorter or longer focal lengths there was an external S-mount.
Here are examples of two Nikkor normal lenses 5cm f/1.4 (late '50s) and the reborn 50mm f/1.4 Millennium (a refined version of the 'Olympic' model from 1964), plus the Voiugtländer 50mm f/1.5 Nokton (ca 2000). The latter uses the external mount and thus has its own helicoid for focussing.
The adapter for Nikkor-S (external) to Z can be found easily, although not all have the accuracy to bring the lens to infinity. The focusing adapters are quite rare yet do exist. One shown here is actually a makeshift one purchased from eBay and turned out to be a clever hybrid between a Leica L-Nikon Z and a hacked helicoid probably from a Russian clone of the Contax. The other is my own remake of the Amadeo focussing mount for Nikkor rangefinder normals to Sony E, which I managed to recast with a factory Z bayonet to be Nikkor S to Z. I reserve it for the 50mm Millennium Nikkor.
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The small adapter DKL - (Bessamatic) to Nikon F. (The adapter is the small black ring with the aperture value's)
The lens is the Voigtlander Septon 50mm f/2
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You need an additional F to Z adapter, or is there any direct adapter Bessamatic-Z?
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You need an additional F to Z adapter, or is there any direct adapter Bessamatic-Z?
Yes you need an extra adapter as there is no direct one. I chose the Nikon-F because you can use FTZ for better EXIF data. With all other adapters you can only use the the comments- field to store lens -information on the Z camera's images.
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The B4 (TV Broadcast lens) adapter to Nikon Z. You can connect a variety of B4 broadcastlenses on the Nikon Z's. It is necessary these B4 lenses have a doubler (double the image-field (and aperture value) otherwise they will not fill the sensor. High resolution lenses are better. You can shoot film in the DX mode with minimal vignetting at the wide settings. My experience is these lenses are not ideal for stills, but better be used for film only.
The adapter has it's own tripod-foot to mount the Broadcast lens.
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Birna, John, I really wonder whether it worth to bother with these vintage Nikon S lenses, I mean if you haven't any available already (like Birna) , as I noticed they are quite pricey, if not very expensive...
That said, I am sure they are of very good quality (optically and well build).
Just my thoughts, though.
I am very satisfied with my growing M/L39 Leica mount range Tiny, sharp, which need 2 adapters only.
My only frustration (but I can cope with it !), is that I don't get data on the pictures. ::)
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There are good reasons for being interested in vintage lenses. They combine small size (in general) with frequently endearing, not-so-perfect rendition to give a character to the images. Plus they, like any one or anything else, deserve being used for their designated purpose.
I tend to put many of these old-timers either on the Z50 or the NEX-5N Monochrome. The 21mm f/4 and 25mm f/4 Voigtländers combine well with the 3.5cm f/1.8 W-Nikkor. Throw in the unbelievably tiny 85mm f/3.5 Voigtländer AP-Lanthar and you have a very neat and compact field kit.
Just ordered a focusing adapter for internal mount Nikkor normals to Sony E so I can use these 5cm/50mm lenses on the NEX. The Voigtländer 15mm f/4.5 Aspherical performs well on this camera as well.
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The B4 (TV Broadcast lens) adapter to Nikon Z. You can connect a variety of B4 broadcastlenses on the Nikon Z's. It is necessary these B4 lenses have a doubler (double the image-field (and aperture value) otherwise they will not fill the sensor. High resolution lenses are better. You can shoot film in the DX mode with minimal vignetting at the wide settings. My experience is these lenses are not ideal for stills, but better be used for film only.
The adapter has it's own tripod-foot to mount the Broadcast lens.
Wonderful product shots!
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Tomatoe flowering in my garden
reversed 36-72 f/3.5 on the Z6
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Zuiko OM from the 1980ies on Z6
2.8/100mm
I also got the 2.8/24mm ... not sooo convincing and the 1.2/55mm, still in the post. And the 1.4/50mm ... very nice ... best of the bunch so far is the 2.8/100 ... all of them are very small and light and very solidly build
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Birna, John, I really wonder whether it worth to bother with these vintage Nikon S lenses, I mean if you haven't any available already (like Birna) , as I noticed they are quite pricey, if not very expensive...
That said, I am sure they are of very good quality (optically and well build).
Just my thoughts, though.
I am very satisfied with my growing M/L39 Leica mount range Tiny, sharp, which need 2 adapters only.
My only frustration (but I can cope with it !), is that I don't get data on the pictures. ::)
It's not only the Nikon S lenses which are interesting but also the M42 lenses (which can be very cheap) The Z- camera's now offer a new world for all the lenses which were previously impossible to use on the Nikon F.
The only thing is, at least for me, to keep an overview and select only lenses which add something new or unknown.
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Wonderful product shots!
Thanks Frank
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Does somebody know an adapter to Z-mount that can adapt M39 Zenit SLR lenses to Z-mount?
I have a M39 Helios-40 and 44 which both are M39 SLR (not Leica LTM).
The register distance is 45.2 mm (if my google search was correct).
I can come very close using a M39 to M42 ring and then a M42 adapter.
The M42 adapter has a register of 45.46mm (google search) so I can't reach infinity focus but combination still useful for most situations as these two lenses are used mostly for "bokeh" images. But could be nice to have a dedicated adapter. Maybe a custom made adapter could be a possibility.
I think the above register distances are correct as it "fits" with that I can focus quite far but not at infinity (0.26 mm is missing). Lens needs to be able to get 0.26 mm closer to sensor for infinity focus.
A helicoid can probably be a solution and then fix it with Loctite/epoxy. Maybe adjusted so it can focus just a bit past infinity to be safe.
I also found a MIR-1 ( 37/2.8 ) in M39 Zenit SLR mount. It should be based on Zeiss Flektogon design……..so maybe a fun lens to try.
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M39 (Leica L) to Z adapters are easily available. But those might not be what you need?
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No, it is lenses like these which was for Zenit SLR cameras:
https://tomtiger.home.xs4all.nl/Zenit3m.html
I have a M39 LTM to Z mount and these has a register distance = 28.8 mm. This adapter works fine for Jupiter3 and Jupiter8 rangefinder lenses.
The Zenit M39 or ZM39 mount has a longer register distance (45.2 mm). A little bit short of M42 adapter distance.
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No, it is lenses like these which was for Zenit SLR cameras:
https://tomtiger.home.xs4all.nl/Zenit3m.html
I have a M39 LTM to Z mount and these has a register distance = 28.8 mm. This adapter works fine for Jupiter3 and Jupiter8 rangefinder lenses.
The Zenit M39 or ZM39 mount has a longer register distance (45.2 mm). A little bit short of M42 adapter distance.
An M39 to M42 adapter is easily available. It is a simple ring with the internal M39 and external M42 threads. The Russian M39 mount lenses like Industar-50 or Helios-44 are sold as M42 mount ones with the adapter ring attached. I have Industar-50 of such type and use it with an Novoflex M42 to TL mount adapter (LET/CO) on my Sigma fp with no problem, and the combo can focus to infinity.
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An M39 to M42 adapter is easily available. It is a simple ring with the internal M39 and external M42 threads. The Russian M39 mount lenses like Industar-50 or Helios-44 are sold as M42 mount ones with the adapter ring attached. I have Industar-50 of such type and use it with an Novoflex M42 to TL mount adapter (LET/CO) on my Sigma fp with no problem, and the combo can focus to infinity.
I also use the ZM39 Helios-44 with M42 to Z adapter as first image shows. Then I first mount a M39 to M42 ring that keeps the same flange distance.
But infinity focus is just not there. It is close. I am sure it is the missing 0.26 mm. If I stop down I can "hide" the error. It is the same with both Helios 40 and 44. Lenses can probably be "re-adjusted" to be "real" M42 lenses like Pentax M42.
2nd image is with Helios-44 and is about as far I can focus. It was stopped down to f8. I could focus on wall but not at roof.
3rd image is as close as I can focus at full aperture just to test the lens. It is quite sharp even wide open. I need other kind of images to evaluate the bokeh.
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Maybe if I find out how lenses are disassembled it can see how the infinity focus is adjusted. It could be that I can just remove the focus ring and then adjust the helicoid a little bit...….who knows… :-)
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Maybe if I find out how lenses are disassembled it can see how the infinity focus is adjusted. It could be that I can just remove the focus ring and then adjust the helicoid a little bit...….who knows… :-)
I noticed this issue with Brown Paxette Steable katagon 50mm f/2.8. If I want infinity with this lens the solution is to machine a M42 adapter and grind the first threads until I get the correct registered distance.
I think your solution consist to find an engineer with a lathe and grind your M42/Z adapter to erase 0.26mm of thread
0.26mm being the difference between 45.46mm minus 45.20mm. And still use the thin M42/M39 ring.
Your M42 adapter would be still usable with more lenses as the removed material is less than a thread.
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That could be a nice solution. However I will never use the lenses on Zenit SLR so if lenses could be adjusted slightly only adjusting helicoid this would be a good solution also.
I just ordered a Contact RF / Nikon S adapter that can be used via a LTM adapter. I ordered from Ukraine and I think I will ask him for advices. Seems be knows everything about Russian lenses. The adapter seems to be a Kiev RF mount that has been "worked" on. It is a nice solution so both inner and outer mount RF lenses can be used.
I watched a video where he adjusted a Helios 44-2 to Nikon F but that operation included some modification of the lens (not just an adjustment). I can ask now I have ordered something from him…..
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I also use the ZM39 Helios-44 with M42 to Z adapter as first image shows. Then I first mount a M39 to M42 ring that keeps the same flange distance.
But infinity focus is just not there. It is close. I am sure it is the missing 0.26 mm. If I stop down I can "hide" the error. It is the same with both Helios 40 and 44. Lenses can probably be "re-adjusted" to be "real" M42 lenses like Pentax M42.
2nd image is with Helios-44 and is about as far I can focus. It was stopped down to f8. I could focus on wall but not at roof.
3rd image is as close as I can focus at full aperture just to test the lens. It is quite sharp even wide open. I need other kind of images to evaluate the bokeh.
I took it granted that M42 and Zenit M39 mounts share the same flange back. Industar 50 is the only Zenit mount lens I've ever had and had no problem with the M42 adapter. It is a 50mm f3.5 lens and show quite strong field curvature. So, its relatively large DOF and pronounced field curvature made the infinity focus error unnoticeable.
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The Noflexar have a 50mm opening on the backside, ending with a rim and the inner surface is riffled. That is perfect to put a filter glass in from a 52mm filter and thanks to the riffles, you can make a little spring to fix the filter. Seems to work perfectly for UV :)
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The Gem arrived! OM Zuiko 1.2/55mm (1982): http://www.mir.com.my/rb/photography/hardwares/classics/olympusom1n2/shared/zuiko/htmls/50mm.htm
Wonderful dreamy rendering at f/1.2
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I took it granted that M42 and Zenit M39 mounts share the same flange back. Industar 50 is the only Zenit mount lens I've ever had and had no problem with the M42 adapter. It is a 50mm f3.5 lens and show quite strong field curvature. So, its relatively large DOF and pronounced field curvature made the infinity focus error unnoticeable.
There is a little bit of a difference. The "lens man" from Ukraine also suggest that the adaption was made on M42 adapter. Then I took a close look at the adapter and found out it is a 3 piece construction. The 42mm thread, a spacer and the Z-mount extender. The spacer is 1.5mm thick and if I just remove that then Helios-44 can infinity focus and a good way past infinity. The Helios 40 also works. It just sit a little bit deeper in the mount but not as deep as the Helios 44.
If I can find a spacer at about 1.2 mm it would be perfect. Spacer is 50mm in outer diameter and 36-37 inner diameter. So that was quite a "quick fix". I was not aware the M42 adapter had that construction.
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There is a little bit of a difference. The "lens man" from Ukraine also suggest that the adaption was made on M42 adapter. Then I took a close look at the adapter and found out it is a 3 piece construction. The 42mm thread, a spacer and the Z-mount extender. The spacer is 1.5mm thick and if I just remove that then Helios-44 can infinity focus and a good way past infinity. The Helios 40 also works. It just sit a little bit deeper in the mount but not as deep as the Helios 44.
If I can find a spacer at about 1.2 mm it would be perfect. Spacer is 50mm in outer diameter and 36-37 inner diameter. So that was quite a "quick fix". I was not aware the M42 adapter had that construction.
Lucky you! That could be the solution good enough to use these lenses, unless maybe you zone-focus with the wideangles.
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Lucky you! That could be the solution good enough to use these lenses, unless maybe you zone-focus with the wideangles.
Yes, I think it will be fine. I can look for a thinner spacer ring but probably not easy to find one that just fits. What I observed was that the 42mm thread ring has conical surface where the 3 set screws locks the ring. And according to my knowledge the ring was inserted reversed. I inserted it so set screws will press on the conical surface so ring can not easily fall out if set screws go loose. Maybe other with Pixco M42 adapters can check that. Set screws was on the "loose side" when I unscrewed them.
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Just a small update on my use of Zenit M39 SLR lens using M42 adapter adjusted so infinity focus is possible.
I tried Helios-40 which is a large lens for the Z50 2nd image is just a test for infinity sharpness stopped down. It was overcast but I was surprised that stopped down this lens is sharp and I did not see any CA. 3rd image is a 100% crop. 4th image is at full aperture (f = 1.5) just to get a feeling for bokeh. I did not find anything real exciting on the short walk I had. But lens may be fun to use for some special "bokeh" images as lens seems sharp enough wide open if focus is "nailed spot on".
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I just got two new Pixco Z-adapters. a QBM and a Leica M. The Leica M to Z has a built in focus helicoid to be able to focus a bit closed than min. focus distance for the lens. However I don't think I can recommend this adapter as the springs applies a very strong force so it is difficult to mount a M-lens. I tried with my Hektor 135/4.5 (cheap lens) and after a couple of times I had it on and off it is now permanently stuck on. I can accept it with this lens but good I did not do it with the 50/2. Think I can see what caused the trouble. It can disengage with the pin that clicks into place but the spring has "worked" on the metal on the lens bayonet and created a (in Danish "metal grat") which prevent the lens to be removed. I could probably find a solution to remove it but until now I accept that it is permanently on :-) .....for the 50/2 and 50/2.8 it will be a Novoflex adapter.
The QBM adapter works much better. Easy to get lens on and off.
I have a 50/1.8 and a 50/1.4 for Rollei SLR. The 50/1.4 is a German made Zeiss lens. The 50/1.8 is a "Singapore" version.
How these lenses performs I don't know yet but I assume they can do ok.
The Leica 135/4.5 Hektor seems to have a pleasant bokeh wide open by a first quick look.
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I noticed that the Nikon Z rear caps do not hold onto some of the third party adapters. Did anyone find third-party Nikon Z lens caps that are a tighter fit? My inquiries with various eBay sellers were unsuccessful (based on the answers I got, I doubt that they understood my queries).
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I noticed that the Nikon Z rear caps do not hold onto some of the third party adapters. Did anyone find third-party Nikon Z lens caps that are a tighter fit? My inquiries with various eBay sellers were unsuccessful (based on the answers I got, I doubt that they understood my queries).
I ordered a generic third party cap from ebay and indeed it is a bit tighter than the factory Nikon one, thus being able to serve as a rear cap for adapted E-mount lenses.
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I ordered a generic third party cap from ebay and indeed it is a bit tighter than the factory Nikon one, thus being able to serve as a rear cap for adapted E-mount lenses.
Yes, one has to remember which way the caps twist off or we just tighten them. It is the same with filters that get stuck. The best way I have found to remove stuck filters is to place them (carefully) facedown on the rubber sole of a shoe or a piece of flat rubber, press down firmly, and turn in the right direction. Has worked every time for me.
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Yes, one has to remember which way the caps twist off or we just tighten them. It is the same with filters that get stuck. The best way I have found to remove stuck filters is to place them (carefully) facedown on the rubber sole of a shoe or a piece of flat rubber, press down firmly, and turn in the right direction. Has worked every time for me.
That's a good point that regards a different issue, but just to clarify: my reply to myself was just to note that while the factory Nikon rear caps are too loose to work with some Sony E to Nikon Z adapters (i.e. they fall off because they can in fact not be tightened), there are some third-party rear caps that are a tighter fit and can in fact be tightened.
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Sometimes i have seen the same issue with Nikon F rear caps.
Third party lens mounts are not always completely within the correct tolerances.
Good to know that third party caps are tighter for Z as well
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Just got a vintage lens : a Meyer Optic Görlitz 100mm 2.8 Orestor. Light and not too big regarding its focal (100mm).
It's the first lens I get in Exacta mount.
I had bought this Exacta/ nikon Z adapter some months ago in case...
Very good ring, holding the lens tightly with no play both sides. Unfortunately, the make is not mentioned on the ring. It looks like very much a Pixco one. Same markings same machining.
Anyway, ready to test it (when the weather allows... 8).
Few pics :
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Hi all,
I finally joined the Z crowd (late, I know) and plan to use mostly my existing AF-S Nikkors and manual lenses, both Nikkors and a couple of Leica mount ones with my Z6.
I have the FTZ, of course, and a dumb adapter for M-mount, so I am all set in principle.
However, I've been wondering if there are any chipped adapters anywhere? Haven't managed to find any so far. Would be easier to have an adapter with a "Z Dandelion" built in than to start modifying certain MF Nikkors, and for 3rd party lenses a F chip wouldn't be an option anyway.
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Hi all,
I finally joined the Z crowd (late, I know)
Never too late to join ! :)
Anyway, chipped adapters implies that lenses you want to adapt are also chipped.
As long as I know, some are existing (for Sony E mount cameras), but are mostly made by artisan at expensive prices. So they keep electric connection and you can even autofocusing.
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I got the 200/4 Orestor not long ago. $35-40 or so.....quite cheap and near mint condition.
I have a K&F EXA adapter which worked very well with Meyer 35/2.8 Primagon which is a very good lens. Much better than expected.
The Orestor-lenses should be "bokeh-masters"? .....and prices is going up on these so I think I was just lucky to get a cheap one at the local market.
They make some called "Trioplan" and some of these has quite high price-tags......for a lens with 3-elements? .....why not.....
Just got a vintage lens : a Meyer Optic Görlitz 100mm 2.8 Orestor. Light and not too big regarding its focal (100mm).
It's the first lens I get in Exacta mount.
I had bought this Exacta/ nikon Z adapter some months ago in case...
Very good ring, holding the lens tightly with no play both sides. Unfortunately, the make is not mentioned on the ring. It looks like very much a Pixco one. Same markings same machining.
Anyway, ready to test it (when the weather allows... 8).
Few pics :
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Correction....the 200/4 is called "Orestegor"....a 5-element. A 135/2.8 does also exist.
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Correction more.....the Meyer 35mm Primagon is a f4.5 lens.....so very slow.....but sharp.
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The Orestor-lenses should be "bokeh-masters"?
Not sure is a bokeh master, but the result (if we are talking about ''bubble bokeh'') is not too bad. Similar to the 100mm Trioplan.
I paid £62 including postage from Germany this almost mint version 5 weeks ago. This is the version #2 with improved coating. Shame it's a 6 iris blades only, the previous version has 15 blades !
When I get some free time I will compare both lenses (Orestor vs Trioplan).
Optically, I rate it as very sharp.
Also, I got recently a vintage extension kit (exacta) for £9 which I am going to try soon.
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Never too late to join ! :)
Thanks!
Anyway, chipped adapters implies that lenses you want to adapt are also chipped.
What I had mind was simply a combination of a dumb adapter and a "Z Dandelion" at the camera side. I.e. adding a chip to the adapter instead of a lens, so that the lens could stay unmodified. This would be easier than modifying certain harder Nikkors.
But looks like such a thing does not exist, not yet anyway...
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Not sure is a bokeh master, but the result (if we are talking about ''bubble bokeh'') is not too bad. Similar to the 100mm Trioplan.
I paid £62 including postage from Germany this almost mint version 5 weeks ago. This is the version #2 with improved coating. Shame it's a 6 iris blades only, the previous version has 15 blades !
When I get some free time I will compare both lenses (Orestor vs Trioplan).
Optically, I rate it as very sharp.
Also, I got recently a vintage extension kit (exacta) for £9 which I am going to try soon.
The Meyer 200/4 has nice rounded 15 blade aperture.
I tried the lens at f4 out of the window handheld with not very much light. But it can make a decent image at f4.
I observed a bit of haze between the front element so lens will benefit from a CLA. I wonder if small one-man companies exists that does this at a reasonable prize.......
A good lens. It was my first image with this lens using EXA to Leica M and Leica M to Nikon Z adapter.
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Just received the Fringer EF-NZ adapter for my Voigtlander 125/2.5 in Canon EF mount and can report that everything works perfectly :)
With electronic adapters it’s always the questions wether they also support third party lenses, so far its fifty fifty. On the Sony a7RII the Commlite adapter worked great with the Canon 100-400 but got the aperture wrong for the CV125 whereas the Metabones worked flawlesly with both.
Similar with the Techart Pro Sony FE to Z adapter, the Sony Zeiss 35/1.4 works great but the aperture is off by one click for the Voigtlander 15/4.5 FE and the CV125 with the Metabones adapter. When the latter reports f/2.5 the aperture isn’t fully opened yet, one turn extra on the dial does open it entirely but now the aperture reads f/2.4 on both the topscreen of the Z6 and the exif.
The electronic aperture control on the Fringer adapter works flawlesly though and there’s zero play in the mount, it also comes with a removable Arca foot which works great to balance the CV125 on a tripod. At €299 its my most expensive adapter yet but its well worth it when the CV125 works like a native lens, it also enables future workarounds for some of my unchipped lenses knowing it works with third party chips but more on that later.
Attached pics of the CV125 on the Z6, the exif wideopen with the Fringer adapter and finally the exif with the Techart Pro & Metabones stack. Please note that besides the proper aperture registration it also turns the AF Mode into MF mode where other adapters kept the Z6 incorrectly in AF-C mode.
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Very nice! Looks like a sound product ;)
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I purchased the Pixco Nikkor S (RF)-Z adapter to use my old rangefinder Nikkors on the Z cameras. The adapter looks nice, but the fit, in particular to the S bayonet, is poor.
There is a 'noname' S-Z adapter sold by a German dealer that fits my rangefinder lenses well, though.
Is it against forum rules, to name the dealer or vendor? I haven't been here in some time, so I forget.
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I see no harm in stating vendor's name etc.
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i bought a pixco exakta-Z adapter and my 13.5/3.5 wont mount, waiting for the replacement :o :o :o
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Quite a number of adapters on the market, in particular the cheap ones, fail to provide the correct register distance or allow a secure mounting of the lens.
While the cheapies tend to be worst, I have had issues also with high-priced products. Sometimes only one out of a batch of the same adapter is faulty, which hints at low standards of Q.C.
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Quite a number of adapters on the market, in particular the cheap ones, fail to provide the correct register distance or allow a secure mounting of the lens.
While the cheapies tend to be worst, I have had issues also with high-priced products. Sometimes only one out of a batch of the same adapter is faulty, which hints at low standards of Q.C.
Noted and will be remembered. Thank you, Birna!
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For those wanting to learn how to adapt any lens, I’ve just launched my 7-hour video course entitled “Adapt Vintage Lenses To Modern Cameras”. In this course you'll learn "The 10-Methods" of adapting lenses. These methods will work on the following types of lenses:
• modern lenses
• vintage film-era lenses
• non-photographic lenses that don’t even have a mount
This course features discussions and demonstrations of the latest and most advanced: lens adapters; and lens adapting techniques. Also, I share my original adapting tips and secrets.
Below is a link to a short video that provides a course overview. It reviews each of the 10-Methods of adapting lenses.
https://www.udemy.com/course/adapt-vintage-lenses-to-modern-cameras/?couponCode=INTRODUCTORY-OFFER
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The 'tube' lens is cute ...
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Well, I don't know if it is cute or not, but it is a question about a lens and the Lords of the Rings: I have, I'm almost ashamed to admit, a Contax G1 which I have not seen for about five years, but I know it is sleeping in its bag, undisturbed. My question is, could its f2 lens find a use with the retro Z Nikon I've not yet bought, or would I be spending more good money to save a very unwise cause. Yes, more fool me for not accepting that the Contax G 1 was born too late, that the present was digital cameras even then! GRRRRRR! Yes, nobody forced me to buy, and it was a beautiful camera. . . .
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Somewhere on Nikongear there is a description of a G1 lens conversion, but I am not able to find it, at least if memory serves me well.
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I converted the planar 45/2 for Contax G to Nikon Z. It was a non-reversible job, but since the AF mechanism of the original lens was broken, it was a way to give new life to this lens.
https://nikongear.net/revival/index.php?topic=9151.0 (https://nikongear.net/revival/index.php?topic=9151.0)
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We'll, hanks to contributors on this thread, especially Simsurace, and the fact my lens is undamaged, I've learnt that adaptors to mount a Contax G lens to a Nikon Z camera body are available and provide manual lens features to some degree. That is a win win result for me, as I can consign the G 1, sans lens to the garbage far less painfully! Maybe it is possible to combine a second adaptor and gain other features. Some one will probably come along with more knowledge than I have and add it to the solution. Being a passionate Df owner who uses only manual lenses and manual settings should pay off here. I think buying a Kipon adaptor is the start for me. Thank you.
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Well, Kenneth, you can laud and magnify all you want, some of you must be thinking, but this Contax G system has some unwelcome peculiarities, and the only positive thing I can see is the fact that apertures are not controlled by the camera body-focus, yes, and poorly, it seems, but aperture is not, and thus aperture preferenced auto exposure only, I think, but which does not bother me as I am totally manual oriented, thanks to my age-1958 being my baptism by an Agfa camera.
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Interesting video of the Megadap FE-Z adapter and AF tests with several Sony and third party lenses:
https://youtu.be/NdZLpcKtqg8
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Hello everybody! New user here (apart from the introduction post in the specific section)!
I have bought a Megadap MTZ-11 for my Nikon Z6, with the purpose of using it with a couple of old Leica lenses and a couple of AF-D Nikkors (mostly my beloved AF-D 105/2 DC). I have immediately updated its firmware to version 3.0, and the behaviour is quite decent with some lenses (rather fast and very accurate), and slower with others (the DC actually hunts a bit, but that was to be expected given its low contrast and its wicked spherical aberration that has always troubled all AF systems).
I was curious to try the "calibration tool" that is offered on the Megadap website, which is nothing than a "different" firmware to flash on the adapter via USB. I flashed it following the instructions, I turned on the Z6... and nothing happened. The adapter does not extend or retract: it does nothing. Top display on the Z6 says F--, and the adapter is seen as a purely mechanical unit (menu says MF).
I then flashed the 3.0 firmware back, and the MTZ-11 works just as fine as before.
Has anyone tried the Megadap calibration tool, and if so... does it actually do something? Do you see the adapter extending and retracting during the procedure?
For info, my Z6 is updated to the latest firmware (3.40).
Thanks!
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The 105mm f/2 AF-D DC lens is an IF lens, Internal Focusing, so get get the best result for AF you need to set the lens focus distance close to where you actually shooting or all of the lens elements in the IF lens group will be in a non optimal setting
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The 105mm f/2 AF-D DC lens is an IF lens, Internal Focusing, so get get the best result for AF you need to set the lens focus distance close to where you actually shooting or all of the lens elements in the IF lens group will be in a non optimal setting
Hi Erik! Absolutely so! Since I only use the DC lens for portraiture, my approach is to pre-focus it at around 2 meters (which is fine for a "heads and shoulders" framing), and then let the Megadap do the fine-tuning. But still, it hunts a bit (especially in AF-C). And the more the DC ring is offset towards "extreme" values, the more it hunts. But, as I said, it is to be expected: aspherical aberration is a wild beast and a tough challenge for AF systems. And in spite of this, I still value this lens A LOT: images shot with it require almost no post-processing at all. It always surprises me by nailing the right tonal richness just out of the camera.
The only thing I cannot explain, is why the calibration tool provided by Medagap doesn't seem to work AT ALL.
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Any kind user with the Megadap who could find the time to try if the calibration procedure works on a Z6/Z7 with 3.40 firmware? Thanks!
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My Megadap ETZ11 adapter does not use the calibration feature so can’t test it for you and I can’t remember one of our members having the MTZ adapter either as nobody mentioned it on the forum before.
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A quick update: Megadap updated their calibration procedure for the MTZ, and now it works as intended even on a Z6/Z7 with 3.40 firmware.
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A quick update: Megadap updated their calibration procedure for the MTZ, and now it works as intended even on a Z6/Z7 with 3.40 firmware.
Thanks for the update ! On the Megadap website, only firmware V 3.0 is shown.
How is your experience with the various Nikkor lenses on the Z6/Z7 after the firmware-update ?
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Thanks for the update ! On the Megadap website, only firmware V 3.0 is shown.
How is your experience with the various Nikkor lenses on the Z6/Z7 after the firmware-update ?
Yes, firmware 3.0 is the latest for MTZ and it works with camera firmware 3.4.
What wasn't working was the calibration firmware, down at the bottom of the page: now that one is 3.0 too.
My experience with some Nikkor lenses is as follows: very fast with AF 50/1.8 from 1990, very fast with the classic AF 16/2.8 fisheye, quite slow with the AF-D 105/2 DC and the AF-D 80-200/2.8 (push pull version). Eye detection works well, and precision with AF-S focusing is great. AF-C on the other hand tends to hunt a bit on slower lenses, especially in low light.
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Suspect that the 80-200/2.8 is too heavy for the tiny focus motor in the adapter which are probably optimized for short primes around half a kilo max.
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Suspect that the 80-200/2.8 is too heavy for the tiny focus motor in the adapter which are probably optimized for short primes around half a kilo max.
Absolutely so. Even if it worked, I wouldn't use it, to avoid strain on the helicoid of the adapter. And that is why I will soon buy the 100-400 to have a native Z tele zoom.
But the slowness is not only a matter of weight: the 105 is not that heavy, but still struggles due to the heavy aspherical aberration of that lens and of its focal length. Some manual prefocusing is absolutely required.
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Here’s a review from Photographylife of the Megadap MTZ11 adapter:
https://photographylife.com/reviews/megadap-mtz11-leica-m-to-nikon-z-autofocus-adapter-review (https://photographylife.com/reviews/megadap-mtz11-leica-m-to-nikon-z-autofocus-adapter-review)
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I just acquired an Asahi Pentax with the 58mm f1.8 in a M42 mount.
I also got 2 Soligor lenses with T2 Mount, they where used an an Exacta camera, I concluded it from the 2 spare T2 mounts ;)
What I want to do is to use at least the Takumar on my Z6, but I don't have the adapter, and the I found used online, is currently packed away ???
I would like to test before being some other adapter, so if someone I the Copenhagen area would lend my one for a couple of hours I would be very happy.
Br Bent
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The f/1.8 version of the 58mm Pentax lens is quite hard to find. Usually the 58mm lenses had f/2.0 or f/2.4 apertures. The 55mm and 50mm lenses came much later.
I will be interested to hear how your 58mm f/1.8 performs. They supposedly had beautiful bokeh.
I just acquired an Asahi Pentax with the 58mm f1.8 in a M42 mount.
...............................................................................................
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I got it with the original sun shade :)
I was not aware that it was something special.
I just ordered a K&F adapter, will post my findings in the lens section when I have had the opportunity to get some pictures.
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Although this thread is a little moribund I thought it might be a suitable place to ask if anyone else has tried / is using the MTZ11.
I just picked one up second-hand, and have played with it for a couple of days. My verdict is that it kind of works, but is slow. Many of my old Nikkor lenses have a longer focus throw than it can cope with when the lens is set at infinity - so I need to pre-focus a bit.
It works, but I feel the need to pixel peep and check each time to confirm. It takes longer than just manually focussing the lens!
I am in Japan, and had no trouble finding a huge number of used ones for sale - which makes me wonder if it’s the same everywhere. I can see the ‘need’ for the Sony > Nikon Z adapter, but I am now dubious about the efficacy and need for a Nikon F > Z auto focus adapter.
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I had almost forgot I have a MTZ11.
When I got it I used it with a 50/2 Summicron. It worked quite well.
I always forgot which aperture during the initialization of a new lens the camera should be set to so it is stored in the EXIF data.
Often I just used it without the correct setting. The adapter works fine without. I normally store images on the PC with a folder name telling which lens was used.
Maybe I should check for new firmware update now I have the adapter in my mind.
When adapter was released there were a couple of updates which "fine tuned" the AF-performance.
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There is a quite recent v.3.0 of the firmware for MTZ11.
https://megadap.net/mtz11-firmware/ (https://megadap.net/mtz11-firmware/)
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MTZ11 firmware was not that recent. V.3.0 is from oct. 2021 and I already had it installed.
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It seems to do very good job with the 20mm 3.5 ais, but with such a short focus throw it is to be expected - and arguably it is not even needed with a wide angle lens.
I will continue to experiment until I find the optimal lens to become a permanent AF lens.
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This new Leica-M to Nikon-Z AF-adapter looks very compact:
https://leicarumors.com/2023/01/09/the-techart-tzm-02-leica-m-lens-to-nikon-z-camera-autofocus-adapter-version-ii-is-now-officially-announced.aspx/ (https://leicarumors.com/2023/01/09/the-techart-tzm-02-leica-m-lens-to-nikon-z-camera-autofocus-adapter-version-ii-is-now-officially-announced.aspx/)
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I have just sold the used MTZ11 I recently bought. With all the faffing around, I just couldn’t justify its use vs manual focus. However, this is just me. I think for certain people, for certain lenses, for certain uses it could be a useful tool.
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No mention of the Z5 - is the Z5 an exception that it does not support or is it just an oversight in not mentioning it?
This new Leica-M to Nikon-Z AF-adapter looks very compact:
https://leicarumors.com/2023/01/09/the-techart-tzm-02-leica-m-lens-to-nikon-z-camera-autofocus-adapter-version-ii-is-now-officially-announced.aspx/ (https://leicarumors.com/2023/01/09/the-techart-tzm-02-leica-m-lens-to-nikon-z-camera-autofocus-adapter-version-ii-is-now-officially-announced.aspx/)
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I am quite sure they just forgot to mention the Z5:
"Compatible with all the latest Nikon Full Frame & APS-C camera models (Z9, Z7II, Z7, Z6II, Z6, Z50, Zfc, Z30, etc)"
"etc" = Z5 ? :-)
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At official homepage they have included Z5:
https://techartpro.com/?product=techart-pro-leica-m-nikon-z-autofocus-adapter-ver-ii-tzm02 (https://techartpro.com/?product=techart-pro-leica-m-nikon-z-autofocus-adapter-ver-ii-tzm02)
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I did notice my 50/1.8Z can handle added extension much better than the 85/1.8Z, the latter develops visible amounts of spherical aberration, coma, loss of contrast and curvature of field. It's best to not go beyond the 11mm extension with this lens. This neatly illustrates a point I made made many times over the years: extension does impact mage quality and always in a negative manner, despite there is no glass inside. However, the carefully designed operational parameters of these advanced lenses are upset by the extension, and some lenses do respond very badly to this practice. Some lenses do better fortunately, but the outcome never is *improved* by added extension. Keep this frequently overlooked in mind -- always.
It's a pity that the 85/1.8Z works so badly with extension tubes. Would it be even worse with diopters? Apart from the 50/1.8Z, are there other of the Z lenses that can handle extension well?
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Thanks for this update.
At official homepage they have included Z5:
https://techartpro.com/?product=techart-pro-leica-m-nikon-z-autofocus-adapter-ver-ii-tzm02 (https://techartpro.com/?product=techart-pro-leica-m-nikon-z-autofocus-adapter-ver-ii-tzm02)
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Has anyone been able to figure out the differences between the Megadap and Techart when it comes to accurate IBIS? For both adapters I have read conflicting accounts whether ibis really works as it should.
I read that the Techart only tells the camera it’s a 50mm lens, whereas although the Megadap can set lens mm in exit data, it is not accurately reflected in ibis settings. But, who knows?!
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It's a pity that the 85/1.8Z works so badly with extension tubes. Would it be even worse with diopters? Apart from the 50/1.8Z, are there other of the Z lenses that can handle extension well?
As always, all unit focusing lenses does well with extension.
Use the great old manual focus lenses for such applications. Or the new Micro Nikkor Z lenses without extension. All the lenses with floating elements and or CRC, close range correction suffer with extension, some lenses more than other.
All the new Z lenses has these floating elements, since they are more easy to to move and control due to much less wight to move around for the tiny AF systems.