The Nikkormat FT3 is a single lens reflex camera. It was produced between 1977 and 1979.
The camera comes with a mechanical shutter and is very similar to its predecessor (FT2). However, it comes with an automatic maximum aperture (AI) indexing system for coupling the lens to the light meter. Nevertheless, the model was not a great success. Towards the end of the decade it was replaced by the Nikon FM.
The lens of the Nikkormat FT3 is interchangeable. This is possible trough the Nikon F lens mount. The lens mount was developed by Nikon in the 1950s. Unlike other manufacturers, the lens bayonet was not discontinued with the introduction of autofocus.
Other manufacturers, besides Nikon, of compatible lenses include Tokina, Tamron, Sigma and Samyang. Although the bayonet has not changed too much, not all modern lenses can be used with old cameras. The focus of the lens must be adjusted manually. There is no autofocus system of any kind.
Photography is made easier by the built-in exposure meter. It can be used for films in an ISO range of 12 to 1600. The correct exposure is measured through the lens. The shutter speed and aperture can be freely selected.
The Nikkormat FT3 has a bulb setting. An external flash unit can be connected to the PC flash socket. The 35mm camera has a thread for a tripod. In addition, there is a connector for a cable release and a self-timer.
The dimensions of the 35mm camera are 14,8 x 9,5 x 5,4 cm. At this size her weight is 750 grams. The power supply comes from one 1,5V LR44 battery (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Nikkormat FT3
The Nikkormat FT3 must be equipped with 35mm films. 35mm films are still being produced and are developed by most photo laboratories without any problems. A 35mm film for color pictures is the Kodak Portra 400*. A possible black and white film is the Kodak T-Max 100*.
The color film is being developed in the C-41 process. This development process is carried out by all photo laboratories offering the development of 35mm films.
The negatives of Nikkormat FT3 have a size of 24 mm x 36 mm. As a rule, 36 shots are possible per film (135-36) at this negative size. The film is winded manually in the camera.
Today you can buy the Nikkormat FT3 only in used condition. The used price of a copy of the 35mm camera depends on condition and functionality.
Nikomat FT3
Nikomat FT3 is the name of the model for the Japanese market.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Nikon F lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | CdS light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 12 to 1600 |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/125 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x LR44 battery |
| Size | 14,8 x 9,5 x 5,4 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.83 x 3.74 x 2.13 inches |
| Weight | 750 Grams |
| Names in other markets | Japan: Nikomat FT3 |
| End of production | 1979 |
| Production duration | 2 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 157,09 Euro 256,04231,78153,501220,70135,2826332,301837,14169,42 Estimate based on used prices of 63 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of 13.5.2024 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 151,60 Euro (163.44 US-Dollar) |