The Nikon FM2 is one of the longest-running SLRs produced by Nikon, with both the original model and the “n” variant being manufactured for a remarkable 19 years! This camera features a 100% mechanically-operated titanium honeycomb shutter that can sync with flash speeds up to 1/250s and achieve an impressive maximum speed of 1/4,000s when necessary. Launched in 1982, this was the fastest shutter available in any production camera at the time. The FM2 and FM2n represent Nikon's minimalist SLR designs and were the second-to-last fully mechanical camera line from the company. These cameras are characterized by springs, gears, superior design, high assembly quality, and premium materials. The FM series was positioned as Nikon’s midrange offering, meaning it lacks some premium features present in higher-end models like the more accurate finder found on the Nikon F2. Additionally, not all FM2n models were equipped with the signature honeycomb shutter, which may or may not be a desirable feature for some users (more on that later).
In this review: Technical specifications, the titanium honeycomb shutter, build quality, user experience with the FM2, pricing, and where to purchase one. Support this blog and access premium features through GOLD memberships!¹ — A shutter speed of 1/4,000s should be capable of capturing the motion of a flying bullet at slower speeds, as suggested by an article from Digital Camera World.
Technical specifications: The Nikon FM2's top shutter speed of 1/4,000s was the fastest on the market at launch, along with a 1/200s flash sync speed. An unmarked update for the Nikon FM2n was introduced in 1984, featuring a flash sync speed of 1/250s. This completely mechanical camera requires two LR44 button batteries (which can be accessed using a quarter or a dime from the camera's bottom plate). The batteries are only necessary for operating the center-weighted 60/40 through-the-lens meter, as FM2s function properly without them. The meter operates across a film ISO range from 12 to 6,400, with ⅓ stop increments available. The finder on the FM2 offers 93% coverage and a 0.86x magnification with a 50mm lens, allowing you to shoot comfortably with both eyes open. It displays shutter speeds and an aperture window, along with illuminated meter feedback (+, 0/“correct,” and -). The focus screen is interchangeable. My FM2n measures 142.5mm × 90mm × 60mm (5.6” × 3.5” × 2.4”) and weighs 548g. FM2 cameras come in all-black and chrome finishes, while the FM2/T incorporates titanium in its top and bottom plates. The Nikon FM2 is compatible with AI/AI-S lenses and newer, excluding modern G glass and lenses that lack an aperture ring.
The titanium honeycomb shutter: The FM2's shutter speed of 1/4,000s was unmatched by any production camera when launched in 1982. This intricate metal curtain was crafted from thin, chemically etched titanium plates, arranged in a honeycomb pattern. This design allowed for a lightweight shutter that reduced inertia while ensuring durability over long-term use across temperatures ranging from −40℃ to +50℃ (-40℉ to 122℉). Titanium, despite being challenging to refine and process, is significantly stronger, allowing for a thinner and lighter design compared to other metals. However, Nikon regarded this shutter design as a temporary solution. While aluminum is more affordable and easier to work with, the company could not ensure reliable performance using this material as initial tests showed failures in the connection between the curtain plate and its driving arm. Following seven years, Nikon transitioned to enhanced aluminum shutter designs in the FM2n models produced after 1989. Until that point, all FM2 and FM2n cameras utilized the honeycomb shutters. The FM2n version discussed in this review, manufactured between 1986 and 1989, combines the benefits of a fast 1/250s flash sync and the distinctive, premium shutter from Nikon. Additionally, cameras produced during this timeframe had a simplified assembly process, making repairs easier. Interestingly, the higher-end FM2/T variants, utilizing titanium for their top and bottom plates, featured aluminum shutter curtains instead. The newer aluminum shutter curtains, while dependable, lack the eye-catching honeycomb pattern of the titanium design.
Build quality: Nikon's FM2 series delivers mid-tier features with the same materials and build quality as their high-end products. Each component fits perfectly and is designed for longevity. The top and bottom plates of my copy are crafted from brass, evident from the dull golden hue visible in worn areas. The film door also bears signs of paint wear, but the underlying material is
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This camera features 100% mechanically operated titanium honeycomb shutter curtains that can consistently synchronize with flash speeds of up to 1/250s and can shoot at an impressive speed of 1/4,000s when necessary. The FM2 stands out as one of Nikon’s most enduring SLRs, with a production run lasting 19 years! This review explores the camera’s lineage and characteristics in detail.