The Nikon TW Zoom is a camera from Nikon. It is an automatic compact camera. It was introduced by Nikon in the late 1980s. The point-and-shoot camera was also marketed as Nikon Zoom-Touch 500.
The lens of the 35mm camera cannot be replaced. It comes with a zoom lens. The zoom range is 35mm to 80mm. The maximum aperture at 35 mm is f/3.5. At the end of the zoom, only a maximum of f/7.9 is possible. The lens is composed of 9 lens elements in 7 groups. Focusing is facilitated by a built-in autofocus. To get sharp pictures you have to be at least 71 cm away from your subject.
The camera is equipped with a built-in light meter. It has been designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 64 to ISO 1600. The film speed is read out via the DX code. If the cartridge has no DX code, the camera sets ISO 100. Aperture and exposure time are set automatically by the Nikon TW Zoom.
A flash is built in for pictures in low light or poor lighting conditions. The range of the flash is 12.5 meters. The camera has a self-timer and a tripod thread. The self-timer has a time delay of 10 seconds and also allows two shots in a row.
The dimensions of the Nikon TW Zoom are 13.6 x 7.3 x 5.7 cm according to the manual. It weighs 360 grams. The camera requires a DL223 battery (eBay / Amazon*).
Nikon TW Zoom QD
The Nikon TW Zoom Quartz Date is a variant of the camera. It comes with the additional option of imprinting the date of recording. The model also differs slightly in size. The dimensions are 13.6 x 7.3 x 6.1 cm with a weight of 370 grams (without batteries).
Films for the Nikon TW Zoom
Exposed in the Nikon TW Zoom are 35mm films. This type of films is still in production and can be processed by most photo labs without any problems. The exposure area of the 35mm photo camera is 24 mm x 36 mm. The film transport is automated.
A nice choice for colour images of the Kodak ColorPlus 200* and for B/W images of the AgfaPhoto APX 100*.
The development process for colour film is the C-41 process. This is offered by almost every photo lab. The black and white film must be processed in a black and white developer.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 35 mm - 80 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 71 cm / 2.3288 ft |
| Zoom function | Yes |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 64 to 1600 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 12,5 Meter / 41.01 Feet |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 1x DL223 battery |
| Size | 13,6 x 7,3 x 5,7 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.35 x 2.87 x 2.24 inches |
| Weight | 360 Grams |
| Names in other markets | International: Nikon Zoom-Touch 500 |
| Estimated value / Used price | 53,85 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 98 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of May 18, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 72,89 Euro (77.93 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 75,63 Euro (81.18 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 58,27 Euro (62.78 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Nikon TW Zoom
What kind of lens does this Nikon camera have?
It has a built-in zoom lens that cannot be changed. The zoom range is 35mm to 80mm, offering some versatility. The maximum aperture varies depending on the zoom setting.
How does the camera focus on the subject?
The Nikon TW Zoom uses an autofocus system to help you get sharp pictures. You need to be at least 71 centimeters away from your subject for optimal focus.
Does the camera have a flash and what is its range?
Yes, it has a built-in flash for low-light conditions. The flash has a range of approximately 12.5 meters.
What type of film does the compact camera use?
It uses standard 35mm film, both color and black and white. These are widely available and easily developed at most photo labs.
What are the dimensions and weight of the Nikon TW Zoom?
The Nikon TW Zoom measures 13.6 x 7.3 x 5.7 cm and weighs 360 grams. The Quartz Date version is slightly larger and heavier.