FAST FIFTY AND ULTRA-WIDE ZOOM ADDED TO NIKKOR Z SYSTEM

RIGHT NOW, IT’S all about lenses in the full-frame mirrorless camera systems, and Nikon has added another two Z mount models to its ever-growing line-up, which now numbers 16. The newcomers are the Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.2 S fast prime and the Nikkor Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S ultra-wide constant-aperture zoom.

This latter model completes a trilogy of f/2.8-speed constant-aperture zooms, joining the existing 24-70mm and 70-200mm models to create a handy trio of high performance lenses. Notably, the Z mount lens is nearly 35% lighter than the F mount AF-S 14-24mm f/2.8G DSLR model. It weighs 650g and is 124.5mm in length. An interesting design aspect is the comparatively flat front surface of the front element for the fitting of conventional screwthread filters… albeit a massive 112mm in diameters. Fortunately, a holder is provided at the rear of the lens for fitting cut gel filters.

The Nikkor Z 14-24mm zoom’s optical construction comprises 16 elements in 11 groups, including four made from optical glass with extralow dispersion (ED) characteristics. Nikon says the optical design effectively corrects for both axial chromatic aberrations and sagittal coma flare, while also minimising distortion. Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat and ARNEO Coat multicoatings minimise internal reflections to reduce both ghosting and flare. The minimum focusing distance is 28mm, and a nine-blade diaphragm gives smoother-looking out-of-focus effects. The 14-24mm has a weather-sealed external construction, with fluorine coating on the front element to help repel moisture and grease.

The new Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.2 S adds a classic ‘fast fifty’ to Nikon’s mirrorless system and it’s quite a lens. Weighing in at 1.09 kilos and measuring 150cm in length, it’s a big lens. It has a 17-element optical construction. This includes two ED elements and four aspherical types to minimise aberrations and distortion while also optimising sharpness. It employs two focusing groups – each driven by its own STM stepping motor – to provide fast autofocusing and minimise focus ‘breathing’. The minimum focusing distance is 45cm and focusing distance readouts are shown via an EL display panel. The 50mm f/1.2 also has the Nano Crystal Coat and ARNEO Coat multi-coatings, as well as weather-sealed construction.

The Nikkor Z 14-24mm f/2.8 S is available locally from November priced at $3,999, while the Nikkor Z 50mm f/1.2 S will arrive in December with a price of $3,499. For more information visit www.nikon.com.au