Nikkor-H Auto 300mm f/4.5

The Nikkor-P/Nikkor H Auto 300mm f/4.5 telephoto lens was in production between 1964 and 1977. It was part of a range of automatic-diaphragm lenses designed to complement the Nikon F SLR camera. During its production run, it was changed in 1969 from a five element/four group construction to six elements and five groups, and became the Nikkor-H (‘P’ stood for ‘Pente’, indicating five elements; ‘H’ stood for ‘Hex’, indicating six). The revision improved image quality considerably. This was a popular lens amongst Nikon users of that period, and remains sought-after on the second-hand market as an economic way of acquiring a 300mm prime lens of decent quality.
It is of peerless construction and measures 79 x 202mm (3 x 7.95in) and weighs 990g (2.1lb). The lens extends during focusing, almost doubling in length. It takes 72mm filters and has a built-in telescopic hood which provides approximately 45mm more length. There is a scalloped focussing ring, characteristic of most so-called "chrome barrel" Nikkors. It is equipped with two tripod mounting threads: one for ‘landscape’ photos and one for ‘portrait’. The focussing throw is 140 degrees, making it handle relatively well.