Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a classic Nikon Zoom Touch 500, an advanced autofocus point-and-shoot 35mm film camera featuring a versatile 35-80mm macro zoom lens. Equipped with a 'Quartz Date' back, it represents the peak of consumer-friendly analog technology just before the digital revolution, allowing users to imprint timestamps directly onto their physical negatives.
Story
Released in 1989, this camera captured the transition from manual photography to fully automated convenience. It allowed everyday families to document vacations with professional-grade glass, forever stamping the exact minute of their memories onto physical film.
Maker / Origin
Nikon, founded in 1917 as Nippon Kōgaku Kōgyō, built its legendary reputation on the rugged reliability of its professional SLR cameras used by photojournalists in the Vietnam War. In the late 1980s, they successfully translated this optical superiority into consumer compact cameras, making high-end glass accessible to the casual hobbyist.
Condition & Value
The exterior cosmetic condition appears excellent with very minimal scuffing, and the original JCII 'Passed' sticker is still intact on the top plate. However, the internal mechanical functionality, battery compartment cleanliness, and lens clarity cannot be verified from the photos.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.