Leica M lens on Nikon D85?

[GFW2-SCUSA]

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I am wondering if there is an adaptor that would allow one to use Leica M lenses on a Nikon D -850 (or any of the F Nikon mount). I use M lenses on my SL2, but I have the Nikon D850 gathering dust and wonder if it would be possible to use the M lenses on it. If not, the Nikon goes to market.   Thanks.

[adan]

Only as "close-up/macro lenses". The lenses will no longer focus father than a few feet away (and realistically, more like inches away).

The F-mount Nikon cameras are thicker than an M body by a half-inch or so (to make space for the moving viewing mirror). Have been since 1959.

That equates to a built-in (and permanent) "extension tube" between the lens and image plane/sensor.

https://www.adorama.com/alc/extension-tube/

Leica's own R-system single-lens-reflex lenses can have their mounting flange replaced with a Nikon F mount, since they were designed for a flipping SLR mirror in the first place. LEITAX makes those.

http://www.leitax.com/leica-lens-for-nikon-cameras.html

There have been a very few M-F adapters made over the years - for scientific work, where the "macro-only" effect may be a plus.

Edited November 19, 2023 by adan

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[dpitt]

The macro option will only work with longer lenses like 90mm M or 135mm M. I am not sure a 50mm M lens is long enough to focus on any distance. IMO, it is not worth paying for the rare adapter.

R lenses are the way to go.

Edited November 19, 2023 by dpitt

[Babylonia]

Here you can find a list of most cameras by their used flange distance to film plane:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flange_focal_distance

http://camera-wiki.org/wiki/Lens_mounts

https://fotodioxpro.com/blogs/news/flange-focal-distance

From that article - PDF scheme of adapters made by Fotodiox,  (and real list of products availability < HERE > ).

More ease to find and "matching"  Leica M-mount  lens to mirror-less  L-mount camera, Fotodiox < HERE >
Other vendors e.g. from Novoflex, 7Artisans, and a bunch "no-name" can be found at AliExpress.

When having a Nikon D850, maybe you still shall have several Nikon lenses?
Nikon SLR lenses can be adapted to L-mount camera.  Not only the older lenses with a separate aperture ring.
But in case you are using G-lenses without an aperture ring, there are special adapters with an own kind of aperture ring.
Settings made in some steps, by moving the tiny aperture lever at the mount of these G-lenses.
Values has to be "estimated" more or less.  No real aperture numbers. But at least the lens can be used.

Edited November 19, 2023 by Babylonia

[GFW2-SCUSA]

Thanks for the helpful information. I had not thought about the flange distance issue. That makes sense. The Nikon D850 is an amazing camera, I think it will cook breakfast for me if I could find the right place in the 190 page menu!  But the project I used it for is over and I shall put it on the market. I enjoy Leica and have used them since the mid 1960's and shall continue the happy relationship. The SL2 is, in my opinion, an okay camera. I just haven't warmed up to it after a couple of years. It fits the bill for long lenses nicely.  I prefer the M 10 which is simple and clear to use. 

 

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[Babylonia]

Every camera and the system behind it, is developed with the best technical care and insight within a “manageable” time frame.
Just by the difference of human being and their individual insight and demandings.
We do get a different systems with their advantages and disadvantages.

Due to the high costs of investing in a system and the confidence in a brand, users tend to stick with a particular brand or system for a long time.
Buy/use the system you feel comfortable with.
All in consideration of what you are willing to invest in photographic systems. Versus the mental satisfaction of being content with it.
(And keep in mind that each person's feelings and satisfaction change throughout life. So their choices change as a reflection of themselves).

Edited November 20, 2023 by Babylonia