Nikon AF6001993

History

By 1993, consumer compact cameras had largely standardized around 35mm and 38mm starting focal lengths. Wide-angle compacts existed - Nikon's own L35AF and Minolta's P's series among them - but at 28mm the AF600 occupied an unusual position in Nikon's consumer lineup: wider than the norm, but without the premium construction, manual control, or optical quality that would characterize the 28Ti introduced a year later. The AF600 was positioned as a travel and indoor camera where 28mm's coverage advantage over 35mm would be practically useful - group shots, tight interiors, landscapes. A QD (quartz date) variant with integrated date imprinting was also offered in some markets. The camera was sold under the "Lite Touch" name in North America and some other markets, reflecting Nikon's emphasis on low weight and pocket portability.

Why It Matters

The AF600 matters primarily for the 28mm lens. In the consumer compact segment of 1993, a 28mm starting focal length was genuinely uncommon - most families bought 35mm or 38mm zoom cameras. The AF600 gave photographers who understood focal length a wide-angle option at a consumer price without spending on a premium compact. The f/3.5 maximum aperture is modest compared to the 35mm f/2.8 of the L35AF, which means low-light performance is limited; this is a daylight and flash camera. The 28mm coverage advantage is most apparent in interiors, tight spaces, and group photographs.

For contemporary buyers, the AF600 occupies the same practical niche as other wide compact point-and-shoots: inexpensive, competent in adequate light, and easy to carry. The Nikkor optical quality is generally good for the category. It is not a collector priority in the way the 28Ti or 35Ti are, which keeps used prices reasonable. The main alternatives from the era - Canon's Sure Shot Wide series, Fuji's Wide & Mini - offer comparable coverage at similar prices.

References

• Camera-Wiki: Nikon AF600 - basic specifications and variant notes