Shopper : Will this lens work with my d40 or d90?DAVE S : I use this lens on my D40 and on an old Nikon FE film camera. The lens is totally manual, so you have to adjust focus by hand and the other auto features (shutter and aperture preferred) also wont work. I have to turn the focus ring to adust focus and set both aperture and shutter speed by hand.
On my FE the TTL (through the lens) metering works, but not on the D40. However, since the D40 doesn't burn film, I determine exposure requirements by trail and error. There was a leanring curve, but now my initial speed/aperture combo guesses are usually in the ballpark, and a quick look at the 1st result on the D40 LED display leads to being right on the money with the 2nd setting (most of the time).
Anyway, I could invest $50 or so in a light meter (hand held or one that fits onto the hot shoe) but guessing at the D40 exposure requirements has become a game I enjoy. I use this fast lens a lot with both FE and D40, and with good results.HOI V : Yes, You can put this lens to D40 or D90, is ok!
Shopper : It is made in the USA?DAVE S : Couldn't find any indication on the lens itself as to country of manufacture. However, within the little 'Instruction Manual' pamphlet, in the section about warranty, it states that, "This product is manufactured, distributed and sold by SAKAR International, Inc." Google their name and at their website you will find that Sakar is a fairly large and well established company specializing in the manufacture of brand name merchandise under license from the brand owner (eg, Vivitar, Polaroid, Kodak). HQ is in New Jersey, but have offices all over the world - so no telling where this lens is actrually made. You could contact them and ask (go to their website for email and phone #s). So, at the VERY low price for this fast (F1.8) 85mm lense (which will function as 170mm on all digital cameras that are less than full frame), I'm not surprised that Vivitar has out-sourced its manufacture. And, that may be a good thing given that Vivitar is way past its glory days. Sakar may be top notch. I recall being surpised years ago when I learned that Leica had out-sourced manufacture of some of its lenses to Sigma. Bottom line, I've been using this lens for several months now and can report that it's a nice solid feeling lens with built in hood and hefty metal components that give smooth/quite movement, that has pretty good optics and all at a bargain price. What's not to like?MICHAEL L : You must confirm it is a USA model - I suggest only buying from either a well regarded dealer - like Adorama - or directly from Nikon.
Shopper : What is the country of manufacture of this lens?
I plan on using with my Nikon FE2.
Thanks.HOI V : This Vivitar 85mm f/1.8 Manual Focus Portrait Lens is made in China.
but is OK!FRANK P : I'm not sure. I sent the lens back because it didn't meet my needs.
