SUPERZOOM ADDED TO NIKKOR Z DX SYSTEM

FOLLOWING ON FROM the introduction of the Z fc, Nikon has launched the promised 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 superzoom for its Z DX APS-C mirrorless camera system. With an effective focal range of 27-210mm, this is likely to be a popular lens with users of both the Z fc and the Z 50, the two camera bodies currently available in Nikon’s crop-sensor system.

The Nikkor Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR makes the most of smaller sensor size, and measures just 90mm in length while weighing a very manageable 315g. The optical construction comprises 17 elements in 13 groups and includes two aspherical types and a pair with extra-low dispersion (ED) characteristics to help minimise both chromatic and spherical aberrations. The minimum focusing distance is 20cm at 18mm and 40cm at 140mm. Focusing is performed internally, and the autofocusing drive employs a stepping-type motor for faster and quieter operation. The minimum aperture range is f/22 to f/40 and the aperture diaphragm has seven blades with electromagnetic control. With a barrel diameter of 73mm, the 18-140mm accepts 62mm diameter screwthread filters.

The zoom incorporates Nikon’s Vibration Reduction optical image stabilisation with five stops of correction for camera shake across the focal range. It operates in conjunction with the in-body image stabilisation in the Z fc and Z 50 to give what Nikon is calling Dual Detect Optical VR with correction of five axes of movement.

The external construction is described as being “dust and drip resistant”. As with the full-frame Nikkor Z lenses, the barrel incorporates a multi-function control ring that operates as the manual focusing collar as a default, but can alternatively be set to adjust apertures, ISO setting or exposure compensation.

The Nikkor Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR is available in Australia from November and is priced at $999. For more information visit www.nikon.com.au.