The F3 was Nikon's professional flagship for the 1980s and stayed in production for an unusually long time. It combines rugged pro construction with electronic aperture-priority control.

The red accent line by designer Giorgetto Giugiaro gives the F3 its unmistakable face. It is a tiny detail, but it became part of Nikon's visual language.

No. It is electronically controlled, but it includes a mechanical emergency shutter release. That mix of pro durability and electronics is central to its character.

Choose it if you want a serious Nikon system body with interchangeable finders, excellent handling and a professional feel without autofocus.

AI and AI-S Nikon F-mount lenses are the classic match. The F3 is especially satisfying with compact manual Nikkor primes.