2010 is the 'Year of NIKKOR' as Nikon Announces Two New Pro-Level Lenses to Its Legendary Lineup: An Unprecedented Nine NIKKOR Lenses Released In 2010

MELVILLE, N.Y., Sept. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Nikon Inc. announced the addition of two new pro level lenses to the legendary NIKKOR line. The new AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G and AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II lenses deliver the performance, reliability and stunning image quality that photographers come to expect in a NIKKOR lens.  The 35mm f/1.4 and 200mm f/2 VR produce sharp results with excellent clarity and color reproduction whether capturing still images or recording HD video.  With the addition of these two lenses, Nikon has introduced a total of nine new NIKKOR lenses in 2010, reinforcing Nikon's role as the world leader in optics.

"The new AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4 and 200mm f/2 VR II are welcomed upgrades to two very popular NIKKOR lenses," said Lisa Osorio, general manager of marketing at Nikon Inc. "Building on the success of their predecessors, these new lenses incorporate improved cutting-edge features such as VR II Image Stabilization, Nano-Crystal Coat and Silent Wave Motor technology, which help photographers take their still and video work to new heights."

Exclusive core NIKKOR technologies play a fundamental role in the design of these two new lenses, and both feature Nikon's exclusive Silent Wave Motor (SWM) technology for quiet, fast and accurate autofocus performance. The optical construction of each lens utilizes Nikon's proprietary Nano-Crystal Coat to minimize flare – both internally as well as from backlit subjects. Further ensuring exceptional image integrity is Nikon's Super Integrated Coating (SIC) for color consistency and reduced flaring. Each lens also incorporates a nine blade diaphragm, to help achieve a dramatic separation between subject and background with a natural out of focus area (bokeh) coveted by today's image-makers.

AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G: Updating the Classic Wide-Angle Lens

The new AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4 is an update of one of Nikon's most respected and popular NIKKOR lenses. The lens combines a natural yet versatile 35mm perspective with an ultra-fast f/1.4 aperture, and completes the lineup of f/1.4G lenses announced in the past year, including the AF-S NIKKOR 24mm f/1.4G, the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G and the AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.4G. The f/1.4 maximum aperture allows photographers to shoot handheld in low-light and provides dramatic separation between subject and a softened background. This classic wide-angle provides photographers with an intimate lens perfect for weddings, architecture, travel and photo journalism whether shooting high quality still photographs or video capture using Nikon's D-Movie feature.

In a wide variety of photographic situations, both FX and DX-format shooters will enjoy the benefits of extra-bright f/1.4 viewing and superb image quality.  When mounted on a Nikon DX-format or an FX-format D-SLR within the DX Crop Mode, the 35mm f/1.4 has an angle of view that is equivalent to a focal length of 52.5mm in FX/35mm format. The build of the 35mm f/1.4 features 10 optical elements in seven groups with one aspherical lens element that eliminates coma and other types of aberration even when shooting at the widest available aperture. A Rear Focus (RF) system provides smooth and fast autofocus while eliminating front barrel rotation and two focus modes are available — M/A (manual-priority autofocus) and M (manual focus).  A refined manual focus driving mechanism is adopted to reduce focus time lag and improve operational ease in M/A mode.

AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II: Telephoto Lens with Incredible Low-Light Performance

The 200mm f/2, like its predecessor, is an incredibly fast aperture telephoto lens that incorporates Nikon's Vibration Reduction (VR) II Image Stabilization system. The VR system provides up to four stops of correction to assist in creating blur-free images while shooting hand-held, or for when capturing D-Movie video content.

Additionally, the NIKKOR 200mm f/2 VR  incorporates an Internal Focusing (IF) system that allows movement of the optical elements within the lens barrel and does not change barrel length. Three focus modes are featured, with an A/M mode added to the conventional M/A and M modes. The optical construction consists of 13 optical elements in nine groups including three Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass elements and one Super ED glass element that effectively minimize chromatic aberration, even at the widest aperture settings. Also included is a Tripod Detection Mode, which automatically compensates for minute vibrations when mounted on a tripod and allows users to keep VR image stabilization on and active – even when the camera and lens are mounted on a tripod. The 200mm f/2 is optimal for all types of shooting including weddings, portraits, sports, nature, and fashion due to its quick response and detailed lens design.

Price and Availability

The versatile AF-S NIKKOR 35mm f/1.4G lens will be available in mid-November with an MSRP* of $1799.95. The new telephoto AF-S NIKKOR 200mm f/2G ED VR II will be available early October for an MSRP* of $5999.95. For more information, please visit www.nikonusa.com.

About the NIKKOR Brand

With a comprehensive assortment of FX and DX-format lenses and focal lengths, from the ultra-wide 10-24mm to the super telephoto 600mm VR, Nikon photographers have come to rely upon the NIKKOR core technologies that contribute to their optical superiority. NIKKOR is the brand name for Nikon's photographic lenses, which are precision crafted to the most exacting standards in Nikon's own glassworks. In 1933, Nikon marketed its first camera lens under the NIKKOR brand name, the "Aero-NIKKOR" for aerial photography applications. Since then, NIKKOR has been used as a brand name for Nikon's lenses that symbolizes durability, high image quality and optical excellence.

About Nikon

Nikon, At the Heart of the Image™. Nikon Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras; COOLSCAN® digital film scanners; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-UX or visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of photographers to the Web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

*MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.

SOURCE Nikon Inc.