Nikon / 1977 / SLR
Nikon FM
A compact mechanical Nikon SLR that made AI-compatible metering and manual control feel unusually approachable.
Image: Nikon FM 35mm SLR camera · Cls With Attitude · source · CC BY-SA 2.5
Overview / 概要
Why Nikon FM matters.
The FM is the bridge between Nikon’s professional F-series and the smaller, more accessible SLR bodies that defined the late 1970s.
Design & context
Its compact proportions and mechanical shutter keep the camera legible: one body, one finder, one deliberate exposure at a time.
Buying today
Check the meter, shutter timing, light seals, and prism foam; the camera is simple to operate but still benefits from a proper service.
Key specifications / 仕様
The details.
- Released
- 1977
- Production
- 1977–1982
- Brand
- Nikon
- Brand country
- Japan
- Format
- Film
- Film / sensor
- 35mm
- Camera type
- SLR
- Lens / mount
- Nikon F mount
- Shutter range
- 1s–1/1000s
- Autofocus
- Manual focus
- Viewfinder
- Fixed pentaprism
- Weight
- 590g
- Battery
- Two SR44 / LR44 cells for meter
Still to verify for this record: Manufacturing country · Made in Japan flag · ISO range · Flash · Dimensions · Weather sealing · Original MSRP.
Notable features
- Mechanical shutter
- AI-compatible metering
- Compact Nikon F body
Known issues
- Condition varies significantly on the used market.
Source record
Every field should be traceable; open a source to check the evidence boundary.
- 01 Open source ↗
Nikon FM family history
Nikon Camera Chronicle · Manufacturer archive
Supports: FM introduction, May 1977 launch, and AI metering context. Accessed 2026-08-12.
- 02 Open source ↗
Nikon F3 history: FM dimensions and price context
Nikon Camera Chronicle · Manufacturer archive
Supports: FM dimensions, weight, mechanical shutter, manual exposure, and launch context. Accessed 2026-08-12.