Nikon I

Made in 1948, this Nikon I rangefinder camera, serial number 60924, represents the oldest known surviving production model Nikon in the world. The very first Nikon I held the serial number 60922, making this the third Nikon camera of all time off the production line. It is one of two cameras made in 1948 still known exist, and it has gone up for auction at WestLicht Photographica.

It’s an incredible piece of history, and not one that many of us are likely to afford, short of selling our homes. The starting price for this Nikon I is €90,000 (around $98,000) with the value estimated to be €160,000-180,000 ($175,000-196,000). Then you’ve got 20-24% to add on top of that for taxes, commission, etc. Of course, such a unique piece of photographic history has the potential to go much higher depending on who may be interested in it.