Can anyone explain Nikon's model numbers?

Dave wrote:
Can you determine by looking at the model number of a Nikon lens much
about it? Ignoring focal length and aperture, which is easy to sort
out, I'd like to know what the other bits are, if they are used
consistently.

This is an indirect answer, but you also need to look into compatibility.
The following is for the D2h, but likely applies to the F6 as well:

Nikon D2H

Compatible Lenses: AF Nikkor (including AF-S, DX, VR and D-/G-type): All
functions possible; D-type Manual-Focus Nikkor: All functions except
autofocus and some exposure modes available; AF Nikkor other than D-/G-type:
All functions except 3D Color Matrix Metering and 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced
Fill-Flash possible; AI-P Nikkor: All functions except 3D Color Matrix
Metering, 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash and AF possible; Non-CPU AI
Nikkor: Usable in [A] or [M] mode with Matrix-Metering, Center-Weighted and
Spot metering available. Indication of aperture number, after user inputs
the aperture f/stop and focal length f=mm by multi-selector operation.
Electronic Rangefinder usable with maximum aperture of f/5.6 or faster.

"PhotoMan" wrote in message
...
Dave wrote:
Can you determine by looking at the model number of a Nikon lens much
about it? Ignoring focal length and aperture, which is easy to sort
out, I'd like to know what the other bits are, if they are used
consistently.

Here is a better link to this kind of information.....
http://www.nikonlinks.com/unklbil/nomenclature.htm

"PhotoMan" wrote in message
...
Dave wrote:
Can you determine by looking at the model number of a Nikon lens much
about it? Ignoring focal length and aperture, which is easy to sort
out, I'd like to know what the other bits are, if they are used
consistently.

Here is a better link to this kind of information.....
http://www.nikonlinks.com/unklbil/nomenclature.htm