Dedicated TTL auto flash unit for some of the early Nikon AF and selected manual focus 35mm SLR cameras

• Compact auto flash unit
• Dedicated auto operation
• TTL flash control system
• For all exposure modes
• Autofocus (AF) illuminator
• Guide number 20m/66ft
• Thyristor fast recycling
• Suitable for Nikon F-401
• Suitable for Nikon F-501
• Fits FG FE2 FA manual
• Not for other cameras
• Complete and boxed
• Includes AA batteries
• Includes instructions

This is a great little flashgun for early Nikon AF and selected manual focus 35mm SLR cameras - complete, boxed and in excellent condition. It has dedicated fully automatic operation and TTL flash control, and works just like an original Nikon flash. It's suitable only for the earliest Nikon AF SLR cameras (the F-401 series and F-501), TTL-capable manual focus models (FG, FE2 and FA) but NOT any later film or digital models. Please see the Compatibility section below for a full list.

It's simplicity itself to use - just slide the flash into the camera's hot shoe and switch on. The viewfinder indicates when the flash is charged, and the correct shutter speed and/or aperture are set automatically, depending on the exposure mode. Flash ready light and test button provided, plus auto check light which confirms correct exposure after you've taken the picture (also shown in the viewfinder with many cameras). The TTL (Through The Lens) flash control system offers the most accurate exposures, by measuring the flash reflected off the film actually during the exposure. TTL mode works at any aperture, and takes account of filters, bellows and other exposure factors automatically.

It is much more powerful than the camera's built in flash, with a guide number of 20m (66 feet) with ISO 100 film. Expected range in program mode is up to 6.7m (22 feet) with ISO 100 film, and 13.4m (44 feet) with ISO 400 film. In other modes, longer ranges may be available - for example, setting maximum aperture on an f/1.8 lens will give a likely range of up to 11m (36 feet) with ISO 100 film, and double this with ISO 400. As always with flash, actual range will depend on the conditions.

Autofocus (AF) illuminator provides assistance for the camera's auto focusing system in low light. This works by projecting a red beam onto the subject (up to around 5m/16ft), which the camera can then use to focus - in complete darkness if necessary. This independent Cobra 300AF flash is very compact and lightweight, at under 100mm (4 inches) tall on the camera, and a mere 175g (without batteries). Powered by four standard alkaline AA batteries (included), which are inexpensive and easily obtainable. Thyristor circuitry reduces recycling times and power consumption at closer distances. Auto power off system shuts down the flash when it's not in use. Captive battery compartment which cannot be dropped or lost. Standard hot shoe fitting with locking ring for secure mounting.

An excellent little flash for early Nikon AF users!

Condition: Mint- (almost as new)
The flash is in fully working order (checked on our F-501 and FE-2) and excellent condition. All features work as expected, including dedicated operation on compatible cameras. Cosmetically it shows just minimal signs of handling, with some minor surface marks here and there in the plastic finish, but no cracks, splits or deep scratches. The box and instructions are in good condition.

The battery contacts are clean with no signs of corrosion, and overall it's in great shape!
At the time of listing we have more than one of this item, but the pictures and description here are representative of all of them.

Complete and boxed with original instructions, plus 4x AA batteries

Compatibility
This flash unit works ONLY on very early Nikon 35mm AF SLR cameras, and selected TTL-capable manual focus models. It works on the Nikon FG, FE2, FA, F-401 (N4004), F-401s (N4004S), F-401x (N5005) and F-501 (N2020). Auto dedicated operation with TTL flash control, auto setting of shutter speed and/or aperture (depending on camera and exposure mode) plus viewfinder flash ready indication.

It is NOT suitable for any other Nikon film or digital cameras, or any other makes.