Restoring a classic Nikkor lens, suggestions? (AI 24mmF2)

[Sarah C.]

Viewing all of your great work on both RED and classic SLR lenses made me think about my (70's?) Nikkor 24mmF2 and how it could use some professional help! Wondering if someone can recommend a good source for repair/restoration? Preference is Southern CA, but willing to consider someone on the east coast.

Lens details: I bought it used a long time ago, it still has lightweight scratches (maybe too rough a cloth was used) and the filter ring has a slight dent. Optically still an amazing lens, but would prefer someone to buff out the marks. Also, would be nice to have a flawless filter ring. Aperture and focus are still smooth. I care more now than I did because of using it on my Canon 7D.

Sarah

 

[Marcus Struzina]

Hi Sarah I'm betting you could buy a copy in excellent condition for less than the cost of having those repairs done. To have scratches removed in my understanding usually involves having the lens element reground or at the very least having the multicoating reapplied. All expensive stuff. I'd test it against a good copy of the same lens to see really how much an affect the scratches are having to contrast / flare and whether they show up when you stop down.

 

[Sarah C.]

Marcus, thanks for that info. I'd like to price out costs against a new used one ($450-500).