Nikon F 601, one project, two models: AF and MF In 1985 Nikon presented the Nikon F 301, a completely innovative camera, equipped with automatic loading and rewinding, as well as a series of features, such as the liquid crystal display visible in the viewfinder, the ability to work, in addition to manual, also in program, aperture priority and shutter priority. In 1986 Nikon presented the F 501, an evolution of the 401 which incorporated, for the first time, an autofocus system. Other models followed, most of them autofocus. In 1991 Nikon presented the Nikon F 601, again a non-professional camera (for professionals in 1988 Nikon presented the Nikon F4). But the thing that I have always thought was extraordinary is that the Nikon F 601, an evolution of the F 501, is presented in two models that are almost identical in the electronic part but different in the focus system: the AF model is autofocus with AF that can be switched off and an electronic rangefinder that can be viewed in the viewfinder to focus correctly even by hand. The MF model is exclusively manual focus, it differs, in addition to the manual focus only, from a focusing screen with microprisms and a split-image rangefinder for correct manual focusing, it can expose in Matrix or in center-weighted average but not in spot like the AF and it does not have a built-in flash, like the AF. For the rest, the cameras are identical, and this is a rare fact in the history of photography. With the exception of a few other examples such as the Konica Hexar which was presented in both fixed focal length AF and RF mode (the latter manual focus and with Leica M mount, both presented in 1993) Unlike mechanical cameras, whether professional or for enthusiasts, used film AF cameras have suffered a collapse in value: a Nikon F 601 can be found for between 50 and 100 Euros. This is due, in my opinion, to the introduction of plastic as a coating, and the fact that all these cameras only work with batteries (they do not have mechanical timing). But they work with batteries exactly like smartphones, or tablets and laptops. Nobody complains about this, in the photography world yes. Being able to also count on AF focusing in many situations is very important, just as it can be considered superfluous in others. This idea could not go unnoticed, I used both the Nikon 601 AF and MF and in this video I explain all the features of use of both models. Enjoy the video Gerardo Bonomo 00:00 Introduction 03:01 The birth of autofocus 03:49 Nikon F 501 AF 09:16 Lens compatibility 10:10 LCD display and data control in the viewfinder 11:12 Manual setting of ISO and DX code 11:45 Automatic film loading 13:26 Single and continuous shooting in Cl and Ch mode 14:43 Intentional exposure calibration and bracketing 16:08 Intentional autofocus and exposure lock 17:25 The programmable self-timer and the command dial 18:54 Nikon F 601 M 20:39 Operation exclusively with battery power 23:08 From metal …. : to plastic 23:54 Autofocus yes, Autofocus no 25:39 The vertical collapse of the prices of AF cameras 28:40 Life expectancy of analog AF cameras 29:26 Maintenance and repairs 31:11 When the repair costs as much as the camera 33:29 What is a beautiful photograph? 35:02 Inserting the battery 35:56 Loading the film 37:12 Film advance and rewind 38:52 DX auto and manual ISO adjustment 39:33 Single and continuous shooting 40:36 Exposure metering adjustment 41:19 The various shooting modes 43:45 Intentional flash exposure calibration and continuous light exposure 44:23 Conclusions If you are interested in a one to one course, from shooting to printing, including development, contact me: [email protected] My videos and articles are accessible to everyone and free of charge. If you want to donate using PayPal, my address is [email protected] . Specify DONATION and your email address so I can thank you. -If you liked the video, thank you in advance for your like. -Comment and if you need more explanations ask in the "comments" section: I will answer everyone. -Subscribe to my channel and click the "bell" to stay up to date on new content on my channel.