Nikon Japan maintains older manual focus cameras, but not Nikon USA

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Nikon Japan is servicing old manual Nikon film cameras and lenses; why not offer it in America too?

Nikon FE being held in a hand to show off the camera
(Image credit: Lauren Scott)

Nikon Japan has announced the return of its "MF Old Product Maintenance Service," according to Digital Camera Watch. This is available for a limited time starting on Monday, September 2nd, and running until Thursday, October 31st. 

The maintenance is paid for, with pricing varying based on the specific product being serviced. The initiative aims to help owners of Nikon’s older SLR cameras and interchangeable lenses maintain their gear in top condition to carry on taking analog photos.

Originial Nikon F in Silver (Image credit: Canon)

The maintenance service is available for a selection of Nikon’s vintage SLR cameras and lenses, including models from the Nikon F, F2, F3, FM, and FE/FE2 series. The service primarily covers inspections and cleanings, as well as checks on the functionality and exterior of the equipment. For lenses, the service does include oil replacement in the helicoid mechanism, however, it is important to note that the service does NOT involve part replacements.

Customers interested in this maintenance service can apply by sending their equipment directly to the Nikon repair center or by making a request over the phone. 

The process is expected to take approximately three months for each item. However, only certain prime lenses are eligible for this service, reflecting Nikon's focus on maintaining some of its most iconic and beloved products.

Nikon F3 (Image credit: Nikon)

This marks the fourth time Nikon has offered this maintenance service, with the most recent offering in 2021. The company decided to reintroduce the service following numerous requests from long-time users who continue to rely on their classic Nikon equipment. 

The initiative underscores Nikon's commitment to supporting its customers and preserving the legacy of its historic products. I think this is a great initiative, but I think it should be offered on a global scale, or at least at Nikon Japan and Nikon USA.

To my knowledge, Nikon USA has the experience to offer this service and, while I understand the logistics for it to be offered at Nikon Japan currently, it would be a massive win for Nikon to announce a similar initiative for analog users in the US and elsewhere.

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Sebastian Oakley
Sebastian Oakley
Ecommerce Editor

For nearly two decades Sebastian's work has been published internationally. Originally specializing in Equestrianism, his visuals have been used by the leading names in the equestrian industry such as The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), The Jockey Club, Horse & Hound, and many more for various advertising campaigns, books, and pre/post-event highlights.

He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, holds a Foundation Degree in Equitation Science, and holds a Master of Arts in Publishing. He is a member of Nikon NPS and has been a Nikon user since his film days using a Nikon F5. He saw the digital transition with Nikon's D series cameras and is still, to this day, the youngest member to be elected into BEWA, the British Equestrian Writers' Association.

He is familiar with and shows great interest in 35mm, medium, and large-format photography, using products by Leica, Phase One, Hasselblad, Alpa, and Sinar. Sebastian has also used many cinema cameras from Sony, RED, ARRI, and everything in between. He now spends his spare time using his trusted Leica M-E or Leica M2, shooting Street/Documentary photography as he sees it, usually in Black and White.