Description
The Nikon S3M was released in March 1960. It was the last Rangefinder camera made by Nikon and remains unique in that it is the first, and only, half-frame Nikon camera ever made.
According to Robert Rotoloni in his magnum opus, ‘The Complete Nikon Rangefinder System,’ only about 100 Nikon S3M ‘sets’ ever existed (S3M plus motor drive). Not only is the S3M the most unique of all Rangefinder cameras but also the rarest, with a complete set including proper motor even rarer.
In US price lists from 1960, it is described as follows: “An S3M camera, specially adapted for 18×24 single frame photography. Takes 72 pictures on a standard 36-exposure roll. Viewfinder provides correct viewing field for 35mm, 50mm and 105mm lenses. Other features are the same as the Nikon S3. The S3M is equipped with with an (S72) electric motor drive taking single, 2, 3 or burst exposures up to 72 frames at the rate of 4 per second.”
The ‘M’ designation meant that it was designed for motorised use. Only 195 units were produced of which only 50 were made with a chrome finish.
The viewfinder of the S3M is unique to this model. Each etched frame line is keyed individually by sliding the chrome lever on the back of the camera next to the viewfinder. It is click-stopped for each frame line and the focal length is also visible below the frame.
Second-hand Grading Description
- NEWAn item that has not been removed from the box or protective wrapping.
- UNUSEDAn item that may have been removed from the original packaging, but has never been used.
- MINT100% as new
- MINT-98%-99% as new
- EXC++95%-97% as new
- EXC+90%-94% as new
- EXCOriginal finish may have slight scratches or rubbed. No dents or deep scratches.
- VGMay be slightly scratched, scuffed or worn, but in good mechanical order with clean optics
- VG-An item that falls below our regular level of gradings. Items in VG- condition will have excessive signs of use.
Please note that the following important points when you see our grading description. When applied to lenses it means that the optics are in perfect condition. What we are describing is the cosmetic condition of the lens barrel. When it applies to cameras, motor drives, speedlights etc. the understanding is that the item is in perfect working order and the description would mean the exterior appearance. In other words we are judging cosmetic appearance.
“Grays of Westminster, where mint is also a highly prized English adjective.”
– Professional Photographer magazine
Returns and Refunds
All second hand equipment comes with a 14-day Sale or Return period and a 6-month warranty. If for any reason you are unsatisfied with a second hand item you have received from us you may return it for a full refund within 14 days of purchase, the only stipulation being that the item is in the same condition as it was purchased.
If an item is found faulty at the time of purchase your shipping costs to return the item to us will also be refunded.
Where the item has been used within the 28-day returns period, we may make a deduction from any refund if the value of the goods has been reduced
You may return a second hand item for a refund if it is no longer desired or required but please note that your shipping costs will not be refunded under these circumstances.
Special Grays of Westminster extended warranties on both new and second-hand Nikon equipment are included on certain Nikon Owner magazine subscriptions which can be purchased via our online shop.
This returns policy does not affect your statutory rights. Details of your statutory rights are available from the Citizens Advice Bureau or Consumer Direct.
Delivery Information
Orders placed Monday to Friday before 12pm will be shipped the same day. Orders placed after 12pm or on the weekend will be shipped the next working day.
If your item is out of stock or on pre-order we will contact you as soon as it becomes available to make delivery arrangements.
Courier delivery estimates:
- UK Mainland 1-2 working days
- UK Remote 2-3 working days
- Europe 3-4 working days (customs and duties permitting)
- ROW 5-7 working days (customs and duties permitting)
For standard Royal Mail shipping please note that delivery times vary.
Cost of delivery:
Orders for delivery in the UK over the value of £200 are delivered free of charge.
Exact shipping charges will be shown at the checkout.
