New Nikon lens announcement at CP+ (plus a second patent for a 16-35 f2.8 w/VR)

18-35 mm variable - which I assume is geared to the 'value FF' segment ....

http://nikonrumors.com/2013/01/18/nikon-announcement-for-the-cp-show-new-nikkor-18-35mm-f3-5-4-5g-ed-lens.aspx/

Updated patent (original one was in 2011) for a 16-35 f2.8 VR (17-35 replacement):

http://nikonrumors.com/2013/01/09/nikon-patents-for-16-35mm-f2-8-vr-lens-dual-lens-hood.aspx/

I really hope this one makes it to production. I can't exactly tell from the schematic whether the front element is threaded or not - also there is a dual-retractable hood element.