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Nikon FE2 |
The Nikon FE2 is an electronically controlled SLR. Unlike a Konica T3, for instance, if the battery dies in the FE2 the camera cannot contine to be used, except in M250/B mode. In that regard the FE2 is more like a Konica FS-1 or FT-1 Motor. Also unlike a Konica, the FE2 is an aperture priority camera. That is you set the aperture and the camera will select the shutter speed. With Konica's shutter priority it's just the opposite.
The FE2 is an upgrade from Nikon's FE. Improvements over the FE included TTL flash metering, top shutter speeds increased from 1/1000 to 1/4000 second, and high flash sync. from 1/125 to 1/250 second. The FE2 was produced from 1983 to 1989.
My FE2 was purchased at auction on ebay. It is the all black version and was purchased for $310 in February 2001.
The FE2 is powered by a 3V lithium battery, two 1.55Y silver-oxide batteries, or two 1.5V alkaline-maganese batteries. The body has a weight of 550 grams and its dimensions are 142.5mm wide x 90mm high x 57.55mm deep. The FE2 will also take Nikon's MD-12 Motor Drive; MF-12 and MF-16 backs; and SB15, SB10, SB-E and SB-16B flash attachments. It takes AI and newer lenses. Of course autofocus lenses can only be used manually.
While not as comfortable in my hand as my Konica T2, T2, FS-1 or FT-1, the FE2 has features that are an improvement over those Konica SLRs. My prime use for the FE2 will be closeup photgraphy and where TTL flash or very fast shutter speeds are called for. It will also be a warm weather camera. For prolonged periods in cold weather, the FE2 will cease to function, while my Konica T2 or T3 will shoot all day in the coldest of weather.
When one attaches the optional MD-12 motor drive the FE2 feels more substatial and is far more comfortable to hold. However, what I don't like about using the motor drive is that it makes it somewhat difficult to access the depth-of-field preview button.
