Super-rare Nikon 13mm f/5.6 ‘Holy Grail’ lens pops up on eBay for $33,000

If you’re looking to get your hands on the ‘Holy Grail’ of Nikon glass, look no further—a Nikkor 13mm f/5.6 lens has popped up on eBay.

Priced at $33,000 via the Buy It Now option, this lens was only made available via special order between 1976 and 1998, making it one of only 350 or so to ever be made. It was often deemed ‘The Holy Grail’ due to its incredibly wide focal length and considerably minimal distortion.

This particular model, serial number 176063, is said to be ‘perfectly clean inside and out,’ with the only thing missing being a rubber grip on the focusing ring, something that can be easily replaced.

Also in the focusing ring are three small ‘dimples’ which were drilled in place and used to attach focusing gears, a detail that shows this lens was used for video at least some point in its lifetime.

One of the most intriguing details of the sale is that eBay seller camerabroker says the lens will be delivered by hand due to its high value. This means shipping costs will include the travel costs, if the buyer would prefer to have it delivered rather than pick it up.

If you’re really serious about buying the lens, camerabroker says you can inquire for a more detailed look at the lens via a Google Hangout of Skype video call, where he will go over the intricacies of the lens in real time.

41 people are currently ‘watching’ this eBay posting, but it doesn’t appear any offers have been made. If your pockets are deep enough, head on over to eBay, snatch it up and let us know how the world looks through one of the rarest pieces of Nikon glass on the planet.

[via Digital Picture]