The Nikon F-801 is a 35mm camera. It is a single lens reflex camera. The company Nikon produced the camera from 1988 to 1991. Later the F-801S followed with a revision of the autofocus system and spot metering.
The lenses of the Nikon F-801 can be changed. A Nikon F lens mount was installed for this purpose. In the late 1950s, the Nikon F bayonet was introduced. Over the years, the lens mount has been refined and improved by Nikon.
Over 400 lenses were manufactured under the Nikkor name. Even though the bayonet has not changed too much, not all modern camera lenses can be used with the old models. The 35mm camera is equipped with an autofocus.
The camera has a built-in light meter. It is designed for films in an ISO range of 6 to 6400. The film speed is read out via the DX code of the film. The SLR camera determines the correct exposure when it measures through the lens (TTL). Exposure settings are set automatically by the camera. The desired exposure time as well as the number of f-stops can be set by the user.
Bulb mode is available for long exposures. An external strobe or a flash unit can be connected to the Hot Shoe. The Nikon F-801 has a built-in self-timer and a thread for a tripod.
If you bought the Nikon F-801, you have to carry 695 grams around. The power supply is provided by vier AA batteries (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Nikon F-801
Photographic films are required for the Nikon F-801. Films for the 35mm format are used. 35mm films are still being produced and are developed by most photo laboratories without any problems. A nice film for color prints is the Kodak Gold 200* and for black-and-white shots of the AgfaPhoto APX 100*.
The color film is designed for development in the C-41 process. This development process is offered by most laboratories.
The negatives of Nikon F-801 are 24 mm x 36 mm big. A 35mm film (135-36) will therefore fit around 36 frames. The film in the camera automatically winded to the next frame.
Nikon N8008
The Nikon N8008 is the model that was sold on the American market.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Nikon F lens mount |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Viewfinder | Pentaprism finder |
| Exposure times | 1/8000 second to 30 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 6 to 6400 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic, Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Manual mode |
| Exposure compensation | ± 5EV (0,3EV to) |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Flash sync speed | 1/250 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 4x AA batteries |
| Weight | 695 Grams |
| Names in other markets | USA: Nikon N8008 |
| Country of production | Japan |
| End of production | 1991 |
| Production duration | 3 years |
| Estimated value / Used price | 107,17 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 94 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 128,69 Euro (138.55 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 131,02 Euro (141.79 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 111,85 Euro (120.15 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon F-801
What kind of film does this camera use?
The Nikon F-801 uses standard 35mm film. These are still readily available and easily processed at most photo labs. You can shoot both color and black and white film.
How does the camera focus?
The camera uses autofocus. It's a feature of the lens, not just the camera body itself. However, note that not all modern lenses are compatible with older film cameras.
Can I use a flash with the Nikon F-801?
Yes, you can attach an external flash using the hot shoe. This allows for additional lighting options, especially in low-light conditions. The camera has a built-in flash.
What type of batteries does the Nikon F-801 need?
The camera runs on four standard AA batteries. These are easy to find and replace, making the camera convenient to use. Remember to check battery life frequently.
Is there a self-timer on the camera?
Yes, the 35mm camera has a built-in self-timer. This is useful for taking group photos or self-portraits without needing to manually operate the shutter release.