In addition to its camera releases, Nikon has unveiled the AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm F/2.8G ED VR II, a completely redesigned version of its workhorse professional telezoom. It features an entirely new optical formula which is designed to deliver sharp images all the way into the corners of the frame even on FX format cameras, using no fewer than 7 ED elements to minimize aberrations and Nano Crystal coat to combat flare. 'VR II' Vibration Reduction technology offers a claimed four stops benefit, and a new A/M focus mode provides autofocus priority when the manual focus ring is handled during shooting; however the lens loses the AF stop buttons of the original. It's also shorter but heavier than its predecessor and incorporates extensive sealing against dust and moisture. It will be available from November 2009 at an RRP of £1999 / €2430 / $2399.95.Nikon launches the AF-S NIKKOR 70-200MM F/2.8G ED VR II
Professional tele-zoom remastered; class leading quality under any lighting conditions
Robert Cristina, Manager Professional Products at Nikon Europe, says: “The optical design has been completely re-mastered to meet the demands of today’s image sensors. It also works better at slow shutter speeds and is adapted to complement the latest autofocus technologies too.”
Improved low light shooting
The AF-S NIKKOR 70-200MM F/2.8G ED VR II lens features the last word in Vibration Reduction (VRII) stabilisation technology to provide users with the ability to shoot at shutter speeds up to four stops* slower than would otherwise be possible. Two modes are available; Normal for everyday shooting and Active to minimise the vibrations caused when shooting from motorcycles or aircraft. Both modes offer a stable viewfinder image, which ultimately makes focus point acquisition and framing far more comfortable and precise.
Brilliant image quality
The new lens is designed to deliver the best image quality in its class with excellent edge to corner quality on today’s FX format cameras. Nikon’s exclusive anti-reflection Nano Crystal coat, and no less than seven ED glass elements, minimise internal reflections and aberrations to deliver rich, high contrast images even under the most challenging lighting conditions.
The new lens features three focus modes; A/M; M/A and M. The new A/M switch enables autofocus priority even if the focus ring is being handled during shooting.
The new optical design also enables shorter dimensions than the current version, without compromising the durability that professional photographers rely upon to get the job done. The tough magnesium body is extensively sealed to withstand the affects of dust and moisture to enable you to keep shooting whatever the conditions.
* As determined in Nikon performance tests
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 70-200MM F/2.8G ED VR II specifications
| Focal length | 70-200 mm |
|---|---|
| Mount | Nikon F-Bayonet |
| Maximum aperture | f/2.8 |
| Minimum aperture | f/22 |
| Lens construction | 7 ED glass elements |
| Angle of View | 34°20’ - 12°20’ (22°50’ - 8° with Nikon DX format) |
| Zoom Ratio | 2.9x |
| Minimum focus distance | 1.4 m/4.6 ft. (throughout entire zoom range) |
| No. diaphragm blades | 9 (rounded) |
| AF motor | Silent Wave Motor |
| Filter/attachment size | 77mm |
| Dimensions (approx) | 87 x 209 mm (3.4 x 8.2 in.) |
| Weight (approx.) | 1540 g (3.4 lb.) |
| Included accessories | • 77mm Snap-on front lens cap • Rear lens cap (LF-1) • Bayonet hood (HB-48) • Lens Case (CL-1018) |
| Optional accessories | 77mm screw-in filters |
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