Nikon DX Zoom-Nikkor Lens- With enhanced VR system

Nikon have today announced their new AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED lens.

Compact, lightweight and packed with an array of advanced features, the AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor lens offers 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED focal range length and 11.1x zoom coupled with Nikon ED glass, Silent Wave Motor and enhanced Vibration Reduction (VR II).

Nikon state that the VR II feature enables significantly sharper handheld images at slower shutter speeds and in a wider range of lighting conditions than previous models. Equipped with the new lens, users can take pictures at shutter speeds up to four times slower than is possible with a non-VR lens.

The combination of the VR II technology, the 11x zoom feature and the focal length range equivalent to a 27mm-300mm lens in 35mm format means the AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor is an ideal total package for dedicated amateurs and professionals alike.

Nikons second generation VR technology offers users two modes to match different shooting conditions. First, the VR Normal Mode, which compensates for camera shake and includes automatic panning detection, as well as automatic tripod detection. And second, VR Active Mode, which compensates for pronounced or regular vibration, for example when shooting from a moving vehicle.

Like all AF-S Nikkors, the AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED features the compact Silent Wave Motor which enables high-speed autofocus that is not only extremely accurate but also super quiet, making it ideal for wildlife photography. In addition, the new lens has a minimum focus distance of 0.5m applicable to the entire zoom range.

MAJOR FEATURES
Offers the broad 18-200mm focal range (11.1x zoom) for use in a variety of situations (equivalent to a 27-300 mm lens in 35mm format)

VR II system offers the equivalent of using a shutter speed 4 stops faster

Two ED glass and three aspherical lens elements minimize chromatic aberration, astigmatism and other forms of distortion, while ensuring high resolution and contrast

Incorporates a compact SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for quiet focusing

Delivers high-level optical performance that is specially designed for use with the Nikon digital SLRs

Employs a seven-blade rounded diaphragm opening that achieves a natural blur for out-of-focus elements

Enables focusing from as close as 50cm (20 in.) from the subject through its entire focal range

M/A mode for rapid switching between autofocus and manual focus operation

Internal Focusing (IF) design enables use of circular polarizing filters

High-grade Nikon Super Integrated Coating (SIC) offers superb color reproduction while minimizing ghosting and flare

Flower-shaped Lens Hood HB-35 (provided) greatly reduces stray light

SPECIFICATIONS
Focal length 18-200mm (equivalent to a 27-300mm lens in 35mm format)

Maximum aperture f/3.5-5.6

Minimum aperture f/22-36

Lens construction 16 elements in 12 groups (two ED glass elements, three aspherical lens elements)

Picture angle 76 - 8

Minimum focus range 0.5m (1.6 ft.)

Attachment size 72mm

Dimensions (approx.) 77 x 96.5mm (3.0 x 3.8 in.)

Weight (approx.) 560g (19.8 oz.)

Included accessories 72mm Snap-on front lens cap (LC-72), Rear lens cap (LF-1), Bayonet hood (HB-35), Soft lens pouch (CL-1018)

Optional accessories 72mm screw-in filters