Nippon-Kogaku Nikkor-Q.C 135mm f/4

Nippon-Kogaku Nikkor-Q.C 135mm f/4

The Nikkor-Q.C 135mm f/4 is an early postwar telephoto made in coupled Leica screw mount, using a compact four-element optical unit in a self-focusing barrel.

Optical qualities

Rendering

Nikon describes the four-element, three-group formula as a Tele-Sonnar type. It provides strong central definition at full aperture, with field curvature and astigmatism reducing edge resolution. Stopping down extends the sharp region and improves overall uniformity, while tonal rendering remains gradual.

Handling

The factory LTM barrel is rangefinder coupled and focuses to about 1.5 m. Its telephoto construction keeps the optical unit shorter than its focal length, although an external 135mm finder may be required on bodies without matching framelines.

History

Development and Launch

Nikon dates completion of the optical design to 1946 and records that mass production began that October. The first production was made in L mount for the postwar Japanese rangefinder market; advertisements are documented by 1949.

Production Evolution

Early lenses can carry Occupied Japan markings. Filter fittings and exterior details changed during production, so uncertain filter dimensions are not generalized in this entry.

Special Editions/Variants

L-mount and Nikon S-mount versions exist. This profile covers the original factory Leica screw-mount lens and excludes later 135mm f/3.5 successors and bellows lens heads.

Collector Notes

Verify the Q.C 13.5cm f/4 engraving, the original rangefinder-coupled LTM mount and smooth operation of the long focusing helicoid. Check the narrow optical unit for haze, cleaning marks and coating damage.