Nikon announce the AF-S DX 12-24mm IF-ED lens

Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of a new lens, the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED.

The AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm* f/4G IF-ED is the first lens in the new DX Nikkor series. Designed specifically for use with Nikon D1-series and D100 digital SLR cameras, it features ultra-wideangle zoom capability, ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass and Nikons exclusive built-in SWM (Silent Wave Motor).

*2X zoom ratio and variable picture angle (angle of view) from 99 at 12mm to 61 at 24mm (18-36mm in 35mm [135] format) with Nikon D1-series and D100 digital SLRsThe lens is targeted at professional and advanced amateur Nikon D-SLR users who demand both the advantages of high optical performance and ultra-wideangle focal range.

The AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED has been developed in response to the growing enthusiasm towards Nikons D1-series and D100 digital SLR cameras, and in recognition of the markets interest in and need for wider-picture-angle high-performance optics for digital SLR photography.

The AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED takes advantage of the current sensor design, using a 23.7 x 15.6mm format which allows D1-series and D100 owners to use shorter focal length lenses to achieve a narrower picture angle.

Compact and lightweight, the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED is an ultra-wideangle 2x zoom lens with focal length starting at 12mm (picture angle with D1-series and D100 digital SLRs is equivalent to that of 18mm lens in 35mm [135] format) for greater wideangle covering power.

The lens incorporates two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass and three aspherical lens elements in a new optical design, effectively minimizing chromatic aberration and significantly reducing distortion.
For fast, quiet Autofocus operation, the lens comes equipped with Nikons exclusive SWM (Silent Wave Motor).
And the rounded diaphragm opening makes out-of-focus elements appear more natural.

This G-type Nikkor lens is designed with no aperture rings, and offers easier, virtually mistake-free operation because the aperture does not need to be set to minimum.

Note: Nikon do not recommend use of DX Nikkor lenses with 35mm (135) or IX240 format cameras.

Focal length and Picture angle
When Nikkor lenses originally designed for the 35mm (135) format are used on the Nikon digital format, photographers believe that the lens focal length is increased by a factor of 1.5. For example, a 12-24mm lens would become a 18-36mm lens. Technically, that is not correct. In fact, there is no change of focal length as you switch the lens from one format to the other. The actual change is that the picture angle of the lens is narrowed on the digital format because the digital format is smaller in relation to the lens image circle projected on the sensor. Focal length and reproduction ratio remain constant for the comparable viewed portions of the image. It is the picture angle that changes.
The new DX Nikkor lens true focal length is 12-24mm with a picture angle that will vary from 99 at 12mm to 61 at 24mm. The combination of reduced picture angle and a smaller image circle enabled the creation of the first compact, lightweight ultra-wideangle DX Nikkor lens.

AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED Major Features

Lightweight and compact design that fits nicely in users hands
12-24mm ultra-wideangle G-type (no aperture ring) zoom lens; 99 to 61 picture angle equivalent to 18-36mm lens on 35mm (135) format camera
ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements minimize chromatic aberration, provide higher resolution and superior contrast
Three aspherical lens elements minimize distortion, especially at the periphery, for superior optical performance
High-grade Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC) offers superior color reproduction and minimizes ghost and flare
Nikons exclusive SWM for swift autofocusing with superior accuracy and ultra-quiet operation
The rounded diaphragm opening (7 blades) makes out-of-focus elements appear more natural
0.3m (11.8 in.) closest focusing distance throughout full zoom range
M/A mode allows rapid switching between autofocus and manual even during AF servo operation, with virtually no time lag
Internal Focusing (IF) design for smoother focusing and great body balance
Flower-shaped Lens Hood HB-23 (provided) greatly reduces stray light
Fits in Lens Case CL-S2 (optionally available)

AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED Specifications
Focal length 12-24mm
(picture angle with D1-series and D100 digital SLRs is equivalent to that of 18-36mm lens in 35mm [135] format)
Maximum aperture f/4
Lens construction 11 elements in 7 groups
Picture angle 99-61 with D1-series and D100 digital SLR
Focus distance 0.3m (11.8in.) to infinity
Max. reproduction ratio 1/8.3
Aperture f/4 to f/22
Attachment size 77mm
Dimensions Approx. 82.5mm dia. x 90mm (3.2 in. dia. x 3.5 in.)
Weight Approx. 485g (17.1 oz.)