Nikon Australia has announced the new full-frame AF-S Nikkor 105mm f/1.4E ED, ‘the world’s first autofocus lens with a 105mm focal length and f/1.4 aperture’.
The new 105mm f1.4 has the resolving power to match Nikon’s high-res DSLRs.
The press release claims Nikon Australia has launched the new lens. This would be true except for the fact that it isn’t actually available, and doesn’t have a published price.
Delving deep into the interwebs – taking the extra steps which those websites with lower energy levels really can’t be bothered with on behalf of their readers – ProCounter discovered that the lens will be available in the US in August – so August/September here, with a US price of US$2199 – so around $3349-3499 RRP (incl GST) here.
The fast 105mm lens is engineered to help create flattering images with attractive bokeh, while delivering impressive edge-to-edge sharpness and colour rendition.
It has a nine-blade diaphragm, and is sealed and gasketed to resist dust and moisture. Additional fluorine coatings are used on the front and rear elements, so that smudges, dirt or moisture are easily removed. Due to its ‘stellar resolving power’ Nikon particularly recommends it in tandem with its high res D5, D810 or D750 DSLRs.
‘Through Nikkor design technology, for the first time ever we’ve been able to produce a lens with a focal length of 105mm and a maximum aperture of f1.4 that offers photographers mesmerising portraiture capabilities delivered with a highly accurate diaphragm control for stable auto exposure and reduced chromatic aberration and flare effect,’ said James Murray, director of Sales and Marketing, Nikon Australia. ‘We know there is a good appetite for this across the photography community and are delighted to introduce the lens to the market.’
The 105mm f1.4 joins other Nikkor f/1.4 lenses in the ‘Gold Ring’ Series, which include only premium primes with Nano Crystal Coat and pro-grade build quality. These other lenses include the AF-S Nikkor 24mm f/1.4G, AF-S Nikkor 35mm f/1.4G, AF-S Nikkor 58mm f/1.4G, AF-S Nikkor 85mm f/1.4G.
In a separate press release, Nikon also announced that Nikkor lens production has reached the landmark of 100 million units.