Vivitar 85-205mm f3.8 for Nikon Non-AI (Pre-owned)

Lens is functional but has deep scratching inside. As-Is  

The Vivitar 85-205mm f/3.8 is a manual focus zoom lens designed for Nikon cameras, specifically those with a Non-AI mount. Non-AI lenses were made before Nikon introduced the Auto-Indexing (AI) system, so they lack the proper mechanical coupling to communicate with the camera's metering system. As a result, when using Non-AI lenses, you often need to shoot in manual mode and rely on external light meters for exposure settings.

Here are some key features and characteristics of the Vivitar 85-205mm f/3.8 lens for Nikon Non-AI:

1. Focal Length: The lens offers a variable focal length of 85-205mm, which is suitable for telephoto photography. This makes it a versatile lens for capturing subjects at a distance, such as wildlife, sports, or portraits.

2. Aperture: The maximum aperture of f/3.8 provides decent low-light performance and depth of field control, although it's not as fast as some modern lenses. You can stop down the aperture to achieve greater depth of field when needed.

3. Manual Focus: This lens is entirely manual, meaning you need to focus it manually by turning the focus ring. Some photographers prefer manual focus lenses for their precision and tactile control.

4. Zoom Ring: The lens has a zoom ring to adjust the focal length from 85mm to 205mm, allowing you to frame your subject at the desired distance.

5. Build Quality: Vivitar lenses vary in build quality, but many were known for being solidly built. The build materials and durability of this lens may depend on the specific model and production year.

6. Compatibility: This lens is designed for Nikon cameras with a Non-AI mount. It's essential to check compatibility with your specific Nikon camera body as some older models may not accept Non-AI lenses without modification.

7. Image Quality: The image quality of older manual lenses like this one can vary, but they can produce sharp images with good contrast if used correctly. However, image quality may not be as high as that of modern lenses with advanced coatings and optical designs.

8. Accessories: Non-AI lenses often come with lens hoods and cases. You may also want to consider using a tripod for stable shots when using telephoto focal lengths.