Nikon has today announced the Nikkor AF-S VR 200 - 400 mm F4 G IF-ED, a new super telephoto zoom lens with vibration reduction and a silent wave motor. This new lens combines many interesting features, it is internally zoom and focusing, it has vibration reduction (essential and expected for modern long telephoot lenses) and a high speed silent wave motor. The lens also has a 'Memory Set' button which can instantly recall a memorized focus position. Another interesting addition to this lens is an environmental rubber seal around the F mount bayonet. On a 'DX format' digital SLR this lens would have a field of view equivalent to a 300 to 600 mm zoom lens.

Press Release:

Nikon announces new Super Telephoto Zoom Nikkor Lens with Vibration Reduction and SWM

08:00 CET July 22 2003. Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

The first 2x super telephoto Nikkor lens to be fitted with both VR (Vibration Reduction) and SWM (Silent Wave Motor) is announced today. The AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor 200-400mm f/4G IF-ED features a super telephoto zoom reach with the advantages of Vibration Reduction for increased photographic opportunities in low light.

The Vibration Reduction system offers up to three stops slower shutter speeds either in Normal Mode for hand held shooting or Active Mode when shooting from a moving platform. The VR system can also detect panning movement.

The optical design includes 24 glass elements in 17 groups manufactured to the latest environmental standards. No less than four ED glass elements ensure sharp, high contrast results with film or digital. The picture angle is equivalent to 135 format focal lengths of 300mm to 600mm when used with a Nikon DX format Digital SLR, fast and quiet auto focus enabled by the incorporation of a Silent Wave Motor (SWM).

The f/4 Maximum aperture and overall length remain constant at all focal lengths and focus distances and a new ‘Memory Set’ button close to the camera body facilitates instant one touch focus re-set.

Environmental protection has been attended to with rubber seals around the F mount bayonet and drop-in filter slot, and damage prevention has been improved thanks to a removable clear glass front element.

Compatible with both TC 14E II and TC 20E II teleconverters.

Weighing in at just 3200g, the lens is about 300g lighter than the AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/4D IF-ED II.

The lens comes complete with hood (HK-30), shoulder strap (LN-1) and soft case (CL-L2). Expected availability in Autumn 2003.