Nikon FA
The Nikon FA, introduced in 1983, was a groundbreaking 35mm SLR that successfully combined the precision of manual control with advanced automatic exposure capabilities. This innovative camera featured the first Matrix metering system, which analyzed multiple segments of the scene to determine optimal exposure, alongside aperture-priority automatic and full manual modes. The FA's robust mechanical construction incorporated a bright viewfinder with comprehensive information display, precise shutter speeds from 1 to 1/4000 second, and full compatibility with AI and manual Nikkor lenses. Notable features included TTL flash metering, exposure compensation, and exceptional build quality that rivaled professional cameras. The FA was designed for serious photographers who appreciated both automated convenience and manual control precision. Its revolutionary Matrix metering technology became the foundation for future Nikon exposure systems, making the FA a historically significant camera that influenced decades of subsequent camera development.
Files
Service manual for the Nikon FA