I picked up a Nikon 50mm f/1.2 AI-S lens on Amazon last week. Used, reportedly in excellent condition and a deal at $320 + 5 shipping. They’re going for around $400 right now on Amazon and eBay.
It arrived USPS yesterday. I love it. MF is a pain in the rear, but this thing is lovely to look at and to hold.
I don’t really need it, but I plan to keep it. It’s just a heavy little gem.
1 December 2016: A little update. At first I used this lens inside, so I didn’t notice that Auto ISO didn’t work with it on my D600 body. But on Thanksgiving Day, I had overexposure problems outside. What?!? I looked into it and found that Auto ISO was, by design, not working. Bad. I never play with ISO. I’m completely happy with my Nikon’s Auto ISO settings, period. No matter what I’m shooting (of the things I shoot).
This really gave me pause regarding this lens. But I figure I’ll get used to it. Plus, I just bought an AI-S 200mm f/4 Micro non-CPU lens. So I guess I’ll get used to setting ISO. I don’t like it though. I hope the D810 I want to eventually upgrade to (for that fast autofocus, mostly, but also for those gorgeous shoulders) supports Auto ISO with non-CPU lenses. I didn’t find anything about it when I searched online, so I still want to know if it’ll work.
5 December 2016: I just love this thing. I love looking at it. It’s not something I need in order to get good photos. Actually, my X100T is enough for me. My Nikon D600 is really just for telephoto shots (Easter egg hunts, school shows, etc.) But I’m keeping it as I just love the look and feel of it. It’s an art lens and I’ll probably be happy in five or ten years that I hung onto it.