Sony FE Mount Turns 60… Lenses That Is.

In fact, such is the rate of Sony’s expansion of its FE-mount system that we’re now up to 63 lenses (see the separate news item), but the 60 mark is still worth noting as it’s quite an achievement. Back in October 2013, when Sony launched its Alpha full-frame mirrorless camera system, there was precisely one FE-mount lens – a Zeiss-badged 35mm f/2.8 wide-angle prime. This state of affairs didn’t last long, and Sony has had the pedal to the metal ever since. Seven-and-ahalf years later, it’s launched its 60th FE lens and has just kept on going. It’s also worth noting here that Sony’s FE-mount system pretty well ticks all the boxes in terms of its scope and variety – from ultra-wides to supertelephotos, the high-performance G Master line-up and zooms in every flavour.

The 60th FE lens is, as it happens, another G Master model, the FE 50mm f/1.2 and it’s also Sony’s first f/1.2-speed model. Such a wide maximum aperture has an inherently shallow depthof-field so there’s plenty of scope for the creative use of selective focusing. A new 11-blade diaphragm gives a rounder aperture to ensure smoother out-of-focus effects.

The new FE 50mm f/1.2 G Master is packed with Sony’s lens tech, starting with optical construction that comprises 14 elements in 10 groups, of which three are XA types. This is Sony’s designation for its ‘eXtreme Aspherical’ elements that are manufactured to very precise specifications to ensure optimum centre-to-corner resolution – even when shooting wide open at f/1.2 – and minimise chromatic aberrations. The optical system also employs Sony’s Nano AR II multi-coating for more effective suppression of ghosting and flare. There are two ‘floating’ lens groups for focusing, enabling a minimum focus distance of 40cm. The autofocusing drive features Sony's XD technology – short for ‘eXtreme Dynamic’ linear motors designed to be both more efficient and more accurate, enhancing the reliability of AF functions such eye-detection tracking. Externally, the lens’ barrel is weather-sealed and the external surface of the front element has a fluorine coating to better repel moisture and grease. The aperture control can be de-clicked to enable seamless adjustment when shooting video, and there’s a pair of focus hold buttons (which can also be set to other functions). The Sony FE 50mm f/1.2 weighs in at 778g and accepts 72mm diameter screwthread filters. It’s available now in Australia priced at $3,399.