NIKONOS III

The Nikonos III, released in 1975, saw several significant operational enhancements. It introduced a film advance sprocket, which standardized the frame spacing throughout a film roll, and moved the frame counter to the top of the body for easier visibility. The viewfinder was upgraded to an illuminating window-type bright frame, offering a clearer, brighter viewing experience and providing additional frame lines for the optional 80mm lens. The hinged pressure plate was further improved, and key controls like the film advance lever, rewind crank, and shutter release button were made larger for easier use with gloved hands. The external appearance, while keeping the spindle shape, became closer to a box-form to accommodate these upgrades. The Nikonos III maintained the 50m depth rating, the Nikonos bayonet lens mount, and a robust, all-weather construction favored by scientific and recreational users alike.