The new Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G lens is now shipping in several European countries and the US.

Amazon has already some in stock from third party resellers with a $100 premium.

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Nikon filed patent 201293548 in Japan for a Nikon 100-300mm f/4 full frame lens:

• Patent release date: May 17th, 2012
• Patent filing date: October 27th, 2010
• Focal length: 102 - 294mm
• Aperture: 4.1
• Angle of view: 8.2 - 24.1 deg
• Lens length: 282.43mm
• Image height: 21.6mm
• Lens design: 22 elements in 16 groups, 4 ED elements

FYI: few months ago Sigma discontinued their 100-300mm f/4 EX DG APO HSM lens.

Posted by NikonRumors.com
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Related posts:

1. Nikon files patent for a 35mm f/2.8 VR full frame lens
2. Nikon filed a patent for a 24-70mm f/3.5-4.5 full frame lens
3. The patent for the upcoming Nikon AF-S 28mm f/1.8G full frame lens is now online

This exotic Nikkor 6mm f/2.8 lens can actually see behind itself. Watch this video for more information:

Related posts:

1. New Samyang 8mm f/3.5 fisheye lens for Nikon mount
2. New Sunex 5.6mm f/5.6 Super Fisheye lens with Nikon F-mount
3. Nikon support: Nikkor PC-E 24mm f/3.5D ED lens cannot be used with shifting and tilting on the D800 *updated*

Nikon filed patent 201278550 in Japan and 20120081791 in the US for a 17mm f/4 tilt and shift and 10mm f/4 wide angle lenses:

• Patent released date: April 19th, 2012
• Patent filing date: October 1st, 2010
• Focal length: 17.11mm
• Aperture: 4.08
• Angle of view (half): 63.03deg
• Image height: 33.00mm
• Lens length: 188.30mm
• Back focus 53.036mm
• Lens design: 18 elements in 11 groups, 2 aspherical elements, 3 ED glass elements

• Focal length: 10.3mm
• Aperture:. 4.17
• Angle of view (half): 64.84deg
• Image height: 21.6mm
• Lens length: 132.78mm
• Back focus: 38.10mm
• Lens design: 17 elements in 10 groups, 2 aspherical elements, 2 ED glass elements

patent: 16-30mm f/4.5-5.6

Patent 201283703 has three different calculations for 28mm f/1.4, 24mm f/1.4 and 30mm f/1.4 lenses:

• Patent release date: April 26th, 2012
• Patent filing date: September 17th, 2010
• Focal length: 28.50mm
• Aperture: 1.45
• Angle of view: 75.6deg
• Image height: 21.6mm
• Lens length: 133.3mm

• Focal length: 24.70mm
• Aperture: 1.44
• Angle of view: 83.7deg
• Image height: 21.6mm
• Lens length: 133.3mm

• Focal length: 30.87mm
• Aperture: 1.45
• Angle of view: 71.3deg
• Image height: 21.6mm
• Lens length: 135.0mm

Related posts:

1. Nikon files patents for 10-30mm and 7-13mm lens for mirrorless cameras
2. Nikon’s patent for a 16-30mm f/4.5-5.6 FX lens
3. Nikon patent for 18mm f/1.8, 20mm f/1.8 FX lenses

Related posts:

1. Nikon Switzerland leaks the D3200 and 28mm f/1.8G prices
2. Nikon D3200, WU-1a, Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G officially announced
3. More on the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G full frame lens

Nikon just announced the D3200 DSLR camera, WU-1a wireless mobile adapter and Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G full frame lens.

Related links:

• Nikon D3200 at Nikon Imaging
• Nikon D3200 at Nikon USA
• Nikon D3200 sample images
• Nikon D3200 brochure

• WU-1a wireless mobile adapter

• Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G at Nikon Imaging
• Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G at Nikon USA
• Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G sample images

The Nikon D3200 kit will 18-55mm lens and 28mm f/1.8 lens will both cost $699.95. The WU-1a price is $59.95.

Check all pre-order options here.

The new WU-1a adapter will work only with the new D3200 and only on Android devices, iPhone support coming later in the year.

This is the D3200 promo video:

Nikon D3200 hands-on videos:

Press releases:

Nikon D3200

MELVILLE, N.Y. (APRIL 19, 2012) – Today, imaging leader Nikon Inc. introduced the new 24.2-megapixel Nikon D3200 HD-SLR; a camera designed for photo enthusiasts ready to step up to a D-SLR or for the busy family memory keeper with an active lifestyle who demands a camera that can keep pace. From low-light to fast action, the D3200 delivers the amazing image quality Nikon is known for, either indoors or outside. Whether new to photography or upgrading from a point-and-shoot, the D3200 features Nikon’s acclaimed instructive Guide Mode to help unleash the photographer in everyone. From candid action shots to staged portraits that flatter, the Nikon D3200 provides the power to capture every moment easily and beautifully with stellar image quality and in stunning Full HD (1080p) video.

Ready to tag along for any outing, the Nikon D3200’s compact, lightweight body makes it easy to pack for a quick day trip or the long haul. A host of advanced features, including a super high resolution 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor, Full HD (1080p) video recording with full time autofocus (AF) and 4 frames-per-second (fps) high-speed continuous shooting mode, prepare the D3200 for challenging lighting conditions and fast paced action. Also, Nikon D3200 users will be able to take advantage of the new WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter. When connected to the camera, this optional adapter can wirelessly send images to mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, preview an image before shooting and control the camera remotely.

“When every moment is as precious as the next one, having a camera that takes the guesswork out of photography is important,” said Bo Kajiwara, director of marketing, Nikon Inc. “The Nikon D3200 HD-SLR offers effortless functionality and easy-to-use connectivity to mobile devices that answers the call for a capable, entry-level D-SLR that will change how you share amazing images with your friends and family.”

Stunning Images to Last a Lifetime

The new Nikon D3200 delivers outstanding image quality no matter the user’s skill level by leveraging Nikon’s renowned technologies. The new 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor allows for incredibly sharp images with stunning detail and less noise, while Nikon’s EXPEED 3™ image processing engine helps to create clear, lifelike images and video with vivid colors, smooth tonal gradations and low noise.

The Nikon D3200 grants users impressive performance in low-light, affording the ability to shoot with assurance even during night games and school plays. With a native ISO range that extends from ISO 100 to 6400, the D3200 can also be expanded to a high of ISO 12,800 for extreme low-light situations resulting in previously impossible photos. Additionally, Nikon’s Scene Recognition System works in tandem with the camera’s 3D Color Matrix Metering II to recognize factors such as color and brightness for balanced exposures, accurate AF, faithful white balance and beautiful flash photos.

Effortless Operation

Beginner photographers as well as those looking to expand their repertoire of shooting techniques will appreciate the Nikon D3200’s Guide Mode which provides step-by-step photo instructions to capture amazing images. Easily accessible through the Mode Dial found on top of the camera body, the Guide Mode walks beginning D-SLR users through the process of set-up, shooting, viewing and deleting images. Because it asks the user what kind of creative photo technique they would like to learn, the Guide Mode has been widely acclaimed for its ability to build confidence and give users the tools to create amazing images. As more people discover the benefits of replacing their camcorder with a D-SLR, the Guide Mode also walks users through the best video settings to create home movies with blockbuster flair. For those with a more advanced skill level, the Guide Mode features helpful Assist Images that serve as a visual reference to inspire users and illustrate the desired result, while guiding them through easy-to-follow techniques.

Further taking the guesswork out of photography, the D3200 also includes six Scene Modes. Photographers can set the Mode Dial to Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-Up or Night Portrait, and the D3200 will automatically adjust camera settings for optimal results in a variety of conditions.

Beautiful Home Movies in Full HD

When images alone can’t tell the whole story, the Nikon D3200 offers the full HD experience of high quality 1080p video. Users can create memorable, cinematic quality videos at 24 or 30 fps and easily share HD content online with friends and family or on their own HDTV via the HDMI output.

Continuing down the path that its predecessor, the Nikon D3100, started, the D3200 implements full-time AF during video recording to help capture crisp video even during the most action-packed situations. To boost the production value of any home video, the camera offers manual or automatic exposure control, and a stereo microphone input to attach an optional external microphone such as the compact ME-1 Stereo Microphone. Furthermore, the D3200 offers other HD-SLR advantages including the ability to create a shallow depth of field, amazing low-light video performance and NIKKOR lens versatility.

Capturing videos on the D3200 is simple, even when in Live View. With a dedicated video record button and easy access to the Live View switch, users can capture video clips before the moment is gone. Additionally, videos play with astonishing detail and clarity on the D3200’s 3-inch, high resolution 921,000-dot LCD screen.

A Camera to Keep Pace with an Energetic Existence

An active lifestyle requires a capable camera that is ready at a moment’s notice, and the Nikon D3200 packs powerful technology to tackle just about any challenge. Delivering up to 4 fps in high-speed continuous shooting mode, the D3200 helps ensure that important, spontaneous and easy-to-miss memories are captured, from a baby’s first smile to a game winning grand slam. Additionally, the D3200’s advanced 11-point AF system allows the user to find and keep focus while maintaining a clear view of that subject. This advanced focusing system is ideal for capturing tricky subjects like a dancer mid-leap during the big recital or a dive for the line drive in centerfield.

The Nikon D3200’s power is amplified when combined with the versatility of Nikon’s legendary NIKKOR optics and powerful accessories. Compatible with Nikon’s dedicated DX-format lenses and over 50 FX-format lenses as well as Nikon’s Speedlight System, the Nikon D3200 puts creativity at the user’s fingertips. The optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter for the D3200 allows the connected user to easily share photos taken on the D3200 to an Android™ platform based smartphone or tablet, so friends and family can enjoy the moment almost as quickly as it happens.1 Android platform users are able to wirelessly transfer images from the camera to a mobile device, preview the image before shooting photos, and even remotely control the camera from up to 49 feet. The Application for use with an Android platform smartphone (2.3 series) and tablet (3.x series) is expected for release in May 2012.2 Additionally, an Application for the iPhone® and iPad® mobile digital device is expected for release in Fall 2012.3

Price and Availability

The Nikon D3200 outfit with the versatile AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens will be available in late April 2012 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $699.95* in either Black or Red. The optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter, sold separately, will be available in late May 2012 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $59.95*. For more information on the Nikon D3200, NIKKOR lenses, additional Nikon D-SLR cameras and accessories, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

*Suggested retail price listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

1. Android is a trademark of Google Inc.
2. The Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility Application must be installed on the smart device before it can be used with the WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter connected to the Nikon D3200.
3. iPad and iPhone are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.

Specifications, equipment and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G

MTF chart:

Lens design:

MELVILLE, N.Y. (April 19, 2012) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the wide-angle AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G, a fixed focal length lens with a large maximum aperture to carry on the legacy of superior NIKKOR imaging technology for enthusiasts and professionals. With a large maximum aperture of f/1.8 and Nikon’s exclusive Nano Crystal Coat to reduce ghost and flare, the 28mm FX-format lens offers stunning sharpness and versatility for both photos and HD video.

“This NIKKOR lens is the latest addition to the popular family of f/1.8 primes designed to give HD-SLR shooters the performance and versatility needed to capture images and HD video with outstanding image quality,” said Bo Kajiwara, director of marketing, Nikon Inc. “The new AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G is a great way for photographers to discover a high-quality, wide-angle prime lens that provides amazingly crisp focus and natural background blur.”

Professional and enthusiast HD-SLR photographers will appreciate the 28mm f/1.8G’s wide-angle versatility and enjoy the sharp focus and lightweight yet durable construction befitting a NIKKOR lens. The lens’ Nano Crystal Coat prevents ghosting and flare and helps produce spectacular high-resolution photos and HD video in even the most challenging lighting conditions. This 28mm lens also features a large f/1.8 maximum aperture, giving the photographer the ability to effortlessly highlight natural background image blur.

The 28mm f/1.8G’s construction and optical formula is deep-rooted with NIKKOR core technology to ensure the highest level performance and versatility for the most demanding imaging applications. Featuring eleven optical elements in nine groups with two aspherical elements, the 28mm f/1.8G is designed to be a compact and durable lens maximized for versatility. Additionally, the new 28mm lens is able to resolve high resolution images with amazing sharpness and clarity, making it an ideal companion for the new 36.3-megapixel Nikon D800 HD-SLR. Professionals and enthusiasts are offered complete lens control with two focus modes, (M) manual and (M/A) autofocus with manual override that allow the photographer to tailor their focus for any shooting scenario. The 28mm f/1.8G lens is also equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) allowing for smooth, silent and precise autofocus operation essential for capturing pristine HD video.

Price and Availability
The AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G lens will be available at the end of May 2012 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $699.95*. For more information please visit www.nikonusa.com.

*SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time. Specifications, equipment and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

Related posts:

1. Nikon Switzerland leaks the D3200 and 28mm f/1.8G prices
2. Nikon D3200, WU-1a, Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G pre-order options
3. New Nikon AF-S Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G full frame lens to be announced in 2012

Nikon Switzerland published their latest price list that also includes the new D3200 and the AF-S Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G lens:

The D3200 prices will vary from CHF 698 - CHF 948 depending on the kit ($750 - $1000) and CHF 828 for the 28mm lens (around $900). The WU-1a wireless mobile adapter is listed at CHF 78 ($85).

The Nikon D3200 will be available on May 15th, 2012, the Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G lens and WU-1a module will start shipping on May 24th, 2012.

Related posts:

1. Nikon D3200, WU-1a, Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G officially announced
2. Nikon D3200, WU-1a, Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G pre-order options
3. More on the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G full frame lens

A new version of the Sunex 5.6mm f/5.6 Super Fisheye lens with Nikon F-mount for APS-C type (DX) cameras was announced few weeks ago. The lens has fixed aperture and focus, provides 185° angle of view and can get a complete panorama made with two shots. The previous version had a price tag of $799.

Related posts:

1. New Zeiss Distagon T* 2,8/15mm ZF.2 super wide angle lens for Nikon mount coming soon
2. New Samyang 8mm f/3.5 fisheye lens for Nikon mount
3. Zeiss Distagon T* 15mm f/2.8 ZF.2 lens (Nikon mount) announced

In addition to the patent of the Nikkor AF-S 28mm f/1.8G, here is some additional information on this upcoming full frame lens:

• 11 elements in 9 groups (different than the patented lens diagram)
• 2 aspherical elements
• Nano coatings
• 67mm filter size
• No VR

The new 28mm f/1.8 lens will be announced soon, maybe even next week with the Nikon D3200 but I am not sure yet.

Nikon is expected to introduce also the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR and 16-85mm DX lenses.

Related posts:

1. New Nikon AF-S Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G full frame lens to be announced in 2012
2. The patent for the upcoming Nikon AF-S 28mm f/1.8G full frame lens is now online
3. Nikon Switzerland leaks the D3200 and 28mm f/1.8G prices

Nikon filed patent application 2011-221421 in Japan for a 24-70mm f/3.5-4.5 full frame lens. This lens only makes sense as a part of a "cheap" full frame body kit. The patent contains several different calculations:

Example #1:

• Focal length: 24.70-68.00
• Aperture: 3.51-4.51
• Omega (half field of view): 42.63-16.87
• Image height: 21.6-21.6
• Overall length: 112.599 - 138.896
• Back focus: 38.818-54.481

Example #2

• Focal length: 24.70-82.50
• Aperture: 3.60-4.60
• Omega (half field of view): 42.62-14.04
• Image height: 21.6-21.6
• Overall length: 121.098 - 158.098
• Back focus: 38.818-58.586

Example #3

• Focal length: 28.80-102.00
• Aperture: 3.63-4.62
• Omega (half field of view): 38.28-9.85
• Image height: 21.6-21.6
• Overall length: 123.531 - 157.844
• Back focus: 38.818-54.339

Example #4

• Focal length: 24.70-87.20
• Aperture: 3.60-5.80
• Omega (half field of view): 42.64-11.49
• Image height: 21.6-21.6
• Overall length: 124.699 - 156.696
• Back focus: 38.819-56.191

Example #5

• Focal length: 22.55-77.20
• Aperture: 3.59-5.78
• Omega (half field of view): 45.22-15.08
• Image height: 21.6-21.6
• Overall length: 126.365 - 166.395
• Back focus: 38.819-68.503

Related posts:

1. The patent for the upcoming Nikon AF-S 28mm f/1.8G full frame lens is now online
2. Nikon 100-300mm f/4 full frame lens patent
3. Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD full frame lens with image stabilization announced

The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED DX VR lens leaked on Nikon Europe website today. This lens has been on my list of upcoming announcements for few months now. The related patent can be found here. I have no exact announcement date, but I believe it should be in the next few weeks. I also think that there will be a new DX body to go along with that lens.

Main features:

• DX format 16.7x zoom lens with versatile 18-300mm focal range (FX/35mm equivalent:27 to 450mm)
• Vibration Reduction II (VR II) stabilization system enables more flexible hand-held shooting and lets you use shutter speeds that are up to 4 stops slower.
• Maximum aperture of f/5.6 at the telephoto end of the range.
• Zoom-lock switch keeps the lens secure when not in use.
• 9-blade rounded diaphragm opening makes out-of-focus elements blend together smoothly.
• Three ED glass and three aspherical lens elements ensure high resolution and superior contrast.
• SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for fast, whisper-quiet autofocus.
• Compact and lightweight design for a lens with this range.

Specifications:

• Focal length 18-300 mm
• Maximum aperture f/3.5-5.6
• Minimum aperture f/22-32
• Lens construction 19 elements in 14 groups (including 3 aspherical lens elements and 3 ED lens elements)
• Angle of view 76 °-5 °20 '
• Focusing Nikon Internal Focusing (IF) System with autofocus controlled by Silent Wave Motor and separate focus ring for manual focus
• Minimum focus distance 300 mm focal length: 0.45 m (1.48 ft) from focal plane
• Maximum reproduction ratio 1/3.2x
• No. of diaphragm blades 9 (rounded diaphragm opening)
• Filter-attachment size 77 mm (P=0.75 mm)
• Dimensions Approx. 83 mm diameter x 120 mm (distance from camera lens mount flange)
• Weight Approx. 830 g (29.3 oz)

MTF charts:

Lens design:

In 2012 Nikon is expected to announce also new 28mm f/1.8G FX and 16-85mm DX lenses.

Related posts:

1. Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR lens hands-on
2. Nikon D3S and Nikkor 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II lens receive EISA awards
3. New Nikon AF-S DX Micro NIKKOR 40mm f/2.8G lens announced

Patent application 20120069440 is for the upcoming Nikkor AF-S 28mm f/1.8G full frame lens. I have no exact announcement date yet, but I believe this lens will be introduced in 2012. The patent contains several different calculations and one of them is for 28mm f/1.8:

• f = 28.08 (focal length)
• FNO = 1.84 (aperture)
• 2ω = 76.4° (filed of view)
• Y = 21.6 (image height)
• TL = 124.5 (total lens length)

The next patent application 20120069441 is for a 16-35mm f/2.8 lens:

• f = 16.48 - 24.00 - 33.95 (focal length)
• FNO = 2.884 - 2.884 - 2.884 (aperture)
• 2ω = 108° - 84° - 63° (filed of view)
• Y = 21.64 - 21.64 - 21.64 (image height)

Related posts:

1. Nikon filed a patent for a 24-70mm f/3.5-4.5 full frame lens
2. Nikon 100-300mm f/4 full frame lens patent
3. Nikon files patent for a 35mm f/2.8 VR full frame lens

The previously rumored Zeiss Distagon T* 2,8/15 ZF.2 lens is now officially announced. Here are the detailed specs:

• Focal length 15 mm
• Aperture range f/2.8 -22
• Number of lens elements/groups 15/12
• Focusing range: 0.25m – infinity
• Angular field (diag./horiz./vert.) 110°/ 100°/ 76°
• Coverage at close range** 340 x 221 mm (close-up)
• Image ratio at close range 1:9 (close-up)
• Filter thread M95 x 1.0
• Length with caps 132 mm
• Diameter 103 mm
• Weight 730 g
• 820 g (ZE)
• Price: $2,950.00

You can see some Zeiss Distagon T* 15mm f/2.8 ZF.2 sample images and a review over at ZeissImages.

Press release:

OBERKOCHEN, 16.03.2012. Carl Zeiss brings out a new super wide angle lens in May 2012. The super wide angle Distagon T* 2,8/15 will be available with an EF (ZE) or F bayonet (ZF.2). With an extra-large angle of view of 110 degrees in combination with a fast f/2.8 aperture, the lens enables the features for dramatic perspectives and performance demanded by the most ambitious landscape and architectural photographers. With a unique ability to capture events in a natural and extraordinary manner, it is also an ideal companion for advertising, journalism and commercial photography.

Thanks to the extreme angle of view of the lens, the fore- and background can be creatively emphasized in landscape and architecture photography. These applications will also benefit from the large depth-of-field, which provides a wide range of image sharpness from close-up up to infinity. With a close focus of 0.25m (10”) – combined with a wide angle view – photographers can work in tight spaces, while also allowing focus on close-up details. Distortion is extremely well controlled, producing naturally proportioned photographs which are not typical of many other super wide angle lenses. "With the Distagon T* 2,8/15, Carl Zeiss sets the standard in super wide angle photography," says Dr. Michael Pollmann, Consumer Lenses Program Manager in the Camera Lens Division of Carl Zeiss AG. "Even at full aperture it achieves outstanding detail rendition and opens up room for extremely imaginative design."

The Distagon T* 2,8/15 incorporates two aspheric lenses and special types of glass material with abnormal partial dispersion to provide an extraordinary correction of chromatic aberration. A floating elements design guarantees high image quality from close-focus through infinity. Like the other SLR lenses in the ZE and ZF.2 series, stray light and reflections are well controlled by the Carl Zeiss T* anti-reflective coating and the sophisticated treatment of the lens element edges with special light absorbing paint.

The robust all-metal barrel of the Distagon T* 2,8/15 is designed for decades of reliable service. A long focus rotation and buttery-smooth action is perfect for photographers who want to take control of their picture making, as well as for filmmakers looking for superior focus control. A nine blade aperture provides a nearly circular opening, producing natural looking out of focus details.

The lens shade is integrated into the design and helps to protect the lens surface from uninten- tional damage. The 95mm filter thread accepts all standard filters, including the recently released Carl Zeiss T* UV and POL filters.

The lens will begin shipping in May 2012 at a recommended retail price of €2,148 or US$2,948 (excluding VAT)*.

Related posts:

1. New Zeiss Distagon T* 2,8/15mm ZF.2 super wide angle lens for Nikon mount coming soon
2. Zeiss Distagon T* 1,4/35 ZF.2 lens announced today
3. Zeiss 35mm f/1.4 Distagon T* ZF lens (Nikon mount) now available for pre-order

Nikon filed a patent (201048125) in Japan for a 135mm f/1.8 lens:

• Patent release date: March 8, 2012
• Patent filing date: August 30, 2012
• Focal length: 132.9mm
• Aperture: 1.8
• Angle of view: 18.3°
• Lens design: 15 elements in 9 group, 2 ED elements
• Internal focusing (IF)
• Vibration reduction (VR)

Nikon currently has the AF DC-Nikkor 135mm f/2D lens ($1,329.00) in their catalog (lens design: 7 elements in 6 groups).

It seems that Nikon is persistently releasing a whole line of full frame f/1.8 lenses - last year there was the Nikkor AF-S 50mm f/1.8G lens, this year the Nikkor 85mm f/1.8G and will probably see also a new Nikkor AF-S 28mm f/1.8G by the end of 2012.

Related posts:

1. Patent filed for the rumored new Nikon 16-85mm DX lens
2. Nikon 1 9-25mm f/2.8-5.0 lens patent
3. Nikon’s patent for a 16-30mm f/4.5-5.6 FX lens

The discontinued Nikkor 28mm f/1.4D AF lens

In addition to the rumored 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6 (see patent) and 16-85mm f/4 (see patent) DX lenses, Nikon will also announce a new Nikkor AF-S 28mm f/1.8G full frame lens. The new lens will not have VR and it will be small in size (I guess compared to the 24mm and 35mm f/1.4 versions). I don't know the exact announcement date, but I believe it will be this year (2012).

Nikon discontinued the very popular Nikkor 28mm f/1.4D AF (read more about it here) long time ago - this lens is still selling for record amounts on eBay.

Related posts:

1. More on the Nikon AF-S Nikkor 28mm f/1.8G full frame lens
2. The patent for the upcoming Nikon AF-S 28mm f/1.8G full frame lens is now online
3. Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 Di VC USD full frame lens with image stabilization announced

A month ago, Nikon's NPS roadshow gear worth over $150,000 was stolen in Dublin, Ireland. Last week I received a tip that a Nikkor AF-S 600mm f/4G ED VR lens matching the serial number on the stolen equipment list (205164) was listed for sale in an European photography forum for $5000 (new price is $9,799.95). The listing has been removed since.

Please note that Nikon never confirmed the serial numbers of the stolen equipment, so all this could just be a misunderstanding. I have more images and screenshots of the original listing if anyone involved with the case is interested.

Related posts:

1. Beware: stolen Nikon equipment serial numbers (UK)
2. Using GadgetTrak to recover stolen Nikon equipment
3. Nikon NPS roadshow gear stolen worth £100k, including D4, D800

Another interesting lens for Nikon DSLRs that is expected to be announced in the next few months - Samyang 24mm f/3.5 tilt-shift.

This lens will be a cheaper alternative to the $1,979 PC-E 24mm f/3.5D ED offering from Nikon.

Image via Megapiksel

Update: check also the upcoming Samyang 8mm f/3.5 IF MC Nikon F (Video Aspherical) VDSLR lens:

Related posts:

1. Samyang coming up with a new full frame 24mm f/1.4 lens for Nikon mount
2. New Samyang 8mm f/3.5 fisheye lens for Nikon mount
3. Samyang 14mm f/2.8 IF ED MC Aspherical with Nikon mount

For those of you who don't read PhotoRumors (you should): Zeiss is expected to announce a new Zeiss Distagon T* 2,8/15 ZF.2 super wide angle lens for Nikon mount:

• Announcement on March 16th, 2012
• Shipping should start in May, 2012
• Angle of view: 110 degrees
• 95mm filter thread
• This lens will be very expensive

Related posts:

1. Zeiss Distagon T* 15mm f/2.8 ZF.2 lens (Nikon mount) announced
2. Zeiss Distagon T 35mm f/1.4 ZF.2 Lens (Nikon F Mount) to start shipping in few days
3. Zeiss 35mm f/1.4 Distagon T* ZF lens (Nikon mount) now available for pre-order

New patented lens design

Design of the current Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR

I already mentioned that Nikon will release a new 16-85mm DX lens in 2012 with a fixed f/4 aperture. A new patent (201042547) filed in Japan just became available online and shows the details of a Nikkor 16-85mm f/4 DX VR lens. Here is one of the shown examples (patents usually have several different variations/calculations of the same lens):

• Patent release date: March 1, 2012
• Patent filling date: August 26, 2010
• Related patents: 201042548, 201042549
• Focal length: 16.4-86.4mm
• Aperture: f/4.3 - 4.7 (another example was shown with aperture f/4.1-4.9)
• Angel of view: 20.4 - 85.5°
• Lens length: 140.9 - 110.0mm
• Design: 17 elements in 13 groups (the current model has 17 elements in 11 groups)
• Three aspherical elements (same as in the current model)
• Vibration reduction (VR)
• Internal focusing (IF)

Currently the Nikon 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR DX lens is back-ordered at both B&H and Adorama.

Related posts:

1. Nikon filed a patent for a 24-70mm f/3.5-4.5 full frame lens
2. Nikon patent for 18mm f/1.8, 20mm f/1.8 FX lenses
3. Nikon 135mm f/1.8 lens patent

The Nikkor AF-S 85mm f/1.8G lens ($499.95) that was announced with the D4 is currently shipping to dealers in the US. I expect shipping to existing pre-orders to start by the end of this week.

Nikon AF-S 85mm f/1.8G lens MTF chart and lens/construction design:

The lens comes with a lens hood and a pouch:

Related posts:

1. Nikkor AF-S 85mm f/1.4G lens now shipping
2. Nikon 85mm f/1.4 & 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6 lenses now shipping (overpriced)
3. Update: Nikon 85mm f/1.4 & 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6 lenses now shipping