Nikon UK announces the release of the AF-S Nikkor 24-120mm f/4G ED VR

Press Release from Nikon UK

AF-S NIKKOR 24-120MM F/4G ED VR: VERSATILITY REMASTERED

RRP: £1049.99 / ?1243

Sales start date: : 22nd September 2010

Nikon UK is pleased to announce the release of the AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR, a brand new 5x zoom lens for FX format D-SLR photographers. The 24-120mm focal length continues to be a unique proposition in the NIKKOR lens range and the new version features a fixed f/4 aperture throughout the zoom range. It incorporates Nano Crystal coat and Nikon?s second generation VRII system.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe says: ?The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR lens offers excellent value and performance in a compact package for adventurous photographers everywhere. It is the second f/4 aperture VR zoom lens introduced this year that broadens the options for Nikon photographers.

Fixed Flexibility:

The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR covers a NIKKOR exclusive zoom range of 24mm to 120mm, ideal for events and travel photography. The fixed f/4 aperture ensures consistent exposure settings across the zoom range; whatever the subject, from expansive landscapes to isolating portraits, the AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR does it with ease.

Hold Still:

The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR is equipped with Nikon?s second generation Vibration Reduction system (VR II) which offers compensation for camera movement the equivalent to a shutter speed of approximately four stops faster, and couples well with the f/4 fixed aperture under low light conditions. The system incorporates two modes: Normal for general handheld shooting and Active to compensate for the mechanical vibration frequencies caused by planes and moving vehicles.

Brilliant quality across the zoom range:

The complex optical design uses Nano Crystal coat, two ED glass elements and no less than three aspherical lens elements to maintain bright, high contrast images under a wide variety of light conditions. Ghosting, flare and aberrations are minimised whilst the nine bladed diaphragm generates subtle bokeh effect in out of focus areas.

Smooth performer:

The Silent Wave Motor (SWM) was specifically developed for the unique characteristics of this lens. It offers very discreet autofocus performance with instant Manual override possible in M/A mode. The zoom gearing and switch placement has been carefully designed for intuitive (blind) operation when looking through the viewfinder. The lens balances well with D-SLRs like the D700 and the barrel features a subtle indentation to assist grip when in use.

Built to move:

The large zoom range is achieved in a very compact and tough construction, ideal for the adventure and travel photographer. Through extensive use of magnesium and Super Engineering Plastic components the lens is built to handle the knocks of everyday use, and rubber sealing around switches and lens mount mean moist or dusty conditions are not a problem.

The AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR takes the ?standard zoom? concept to another level to meet the demands of today?s high resolution FX format D-SLRs while maintaining excellent price/performance ratio.

The lens is supplied with a dedicated hood HB-53 and a soft pouch.

Specifications:

Focal length 24-120mm

Maximum aperture f/4

Minimum aperture f/22

Lens construction 17 elements in 13 groups (with two ED glass elements, three aspherical lenses and Nano Crystal Coat

Angle of view 84˚-20˚ 20? (61˚-13˚ 20? with Nikon DX format)

Closest focus distance 0.45m (1.5ft)

Max reproduction ratio 0.24x (at telephoto setting)

Diaphragm blades 9 (rounded)

Focusing AF with built in SWM and Manual focus

Filter/attachment size 77mm