Nikkormat(Nikomat) FT2 The Strange Serial No.

[kaz]

Hi!
 I just registered here.

 I recently got an FT2 from a second hands store and there's something about it that's been bothering me.
 I'd like to ask a question.
I'm sorry that if this topic should be on the other place.

It seems like the serial number of the FT2, I happened to get is written as "5700733".

I bought it because it was in really mint condition, but I've never seen a serial number starting with 570xxxx before.
So, I wanted to know what it means. I've searched online, but I can only find serial numbers up to around 549xxxx.

[David H. Hartman]

I don't have an answer but you might like this site...

https://www.mir.com.my/rb/photography/

Best,

Dave

My first serious camera was a Nikkormat FTn.

[kaz]

THX.
However, I couldn't find any information about the serial.
Actually, I already own one FTN, but I bought this FT2 for only $35.
She was fully functional, (including the light meter,)and  looked brand new.
Then I noticed the "strange" serial number.
If this 570xxxx serial number isn't actually that rare, I'd like to take her on many trips with my new Nikkor. If not, I'm a little hesitant

[ggoodes]

I cannot find any sort of serial-number reference for Nikkormats, but the few places that talk of serial-numbers only mention that the FT2 was in the 5XXXXXX range.  Your 570XXXX number is indeed very high compared to other ones listed out there, so it does seem unique.  I can only suggest contacting Roland Vink who maintains a serial-number database for Nikkor lenses (and some Nikon bodies): He might have some insight into your FT2. 

I would totally rock that FT2 and take it out for a spin rather than turning it into a shelf-Queen.  Perhaps consider an ever-ready case to protect the cosmetics.

[kaz]

I appreciate your suggestion.
 I sent the message to Mr.Roland attach some photos.I will let you know when I receive a reply and there is progress!
And then, I need to find a ever-ready case for my Queen

I cannot find any sort of serial-number reference for Nikkormats, but the few places that talk of serial-numbers only mention that the FT2 was in the 5XXXXXX range.  Your 570XXXX number is indeed very high compared to other ones listed out there, so it does seem unique.  I can only suggest contacting Roland Vink who maintains a serial-number database for Nikkor lenses (and some Nikon bodies): He might have some insight into your FT2. 

I would totally rock that FT2 and take it out for a spin rather than turning it into a shelf-Queen.  Perhaps consider an ever-ready case to protect the cosmetics.

[Chip Chipowski]

That is a beauty!  And a beast!

[kaz]

Hello everyone,
I wanted to give you an update regarding the Nikkormat FT2 with the strange serial number 5700733.
I contacted Mr. Roland Vink by email, and he was kind enough to reply. Although he mainly collects data on Nikkor lenses, he also has some records on FT2 bodies. He confirmed that the highest known serial number he could find is in the 543xxxx range.

He suggested two possible explanations:

Engraving error — It may have been intended as 510xxxx but was mistakenly engraved as 570xxxx. He has seen similar engraving mistakes on lenses as well.

Special/late production batch — It could be from a small batch made after regular production ended for a special order. However, he thinks the engraving error is the more likely explanation.

Thank you again for all the helpful suggestions!
I’ll take good care of this “Queen” and plan to use her outdoors

Best regards,
kaz