Pre-Photokina 2008: Nikon has today announced a new standard prime lens, the AF-S Nikkor 50mm F1.4G. Headlining the new features is a built-in Silent Wave Motor which enables autofocus with the D60/D40x/D40 DSLRs, but the lens also boasts a brand-new optical system with 8 elements in 7 groups for improved image quality, a circular aperture diaphragm for more attractive background blur, and a barrel design which does not change length on focusing. The lens will be available from December 2008.
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Nikon launches the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G lens
Redefining the standard lens concept
Cologne, Photokina 2008 – Nikon Europe is pleased to announce the introduction of a new wide aperture fixed-focal length NIKKOR lens, the 50-mm AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G. This lens has a fast maximum aperture of f/1.4 respectively for a bright viewfinder experience, beautiful background blur with shallow depth of field.
It also incorporates Nikon’s ultra-compact Silent Wave Motor (SWM) ring-type for silent, fast and accurate focusing and enables autofocus in cameras without a built-in motor such as the Nikon D40 and Nikon D60.
"This new fast prime lens redefines the standard lens concept,” said Robert Cristina, Manager Professional Products and NPS at Nikon Europe. He added: “The fast apertures, silent AF and compact dimensions deliver brilliant image quality with new creative options for Nikon digital photographers.”
AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G
The AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G lens is a fast, fixed focal-length lens with normal picture angle when used with Nikon’s FX-format D-SLR cameras. Its newly developed optical system delivers high performance, as it efficiently corrects sagittal coma flare and chromatic aberration.
The SWM ring type offers smooth and quiet AF operation. Although all lens groups shift during focusing, the front element and filter mount does not rotate and the barrel length does not change, ideal for close-up photography or when using SB-R200 Wireless Remote Speedlight units.
The AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G has two focus modes, M/A (manual-priority autofocus) and M (manual focus). With its rounded nine-blade diaphragm, out-of-focus elements appear more natural. When mounted on a DX-format SLR, the picture angle is equivalent to a focal length of about 75mm in 35mm format.
AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.4G lens specifications
| Price | • $439 (US) • £280 (UK) • €383 (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Maximum format size | 35mm full frame |
| Focal length | 50mm |
| 35mm equivalent focal length (APS-C) |
75mm |
| Diagonal Angle of view (FF) | 46º |
| Diagonal Angle of view (APS-C) | 31º30' |
| Maximum aperture | F1.4 |
| Minimum aperture | F16 |
| Lens Construction | 8 elements / 7 groups |
| Number of diaphragm blades | 9 (rounded) |
| Minimum focus | 0.45m |
| Maximum magnification | 0.15x |
| AF motor type | • Ring-type SWM • Full-time Manual Focus |
| Focus method | Unit |
| Image stabilization | • None |
| Filter thread | • 58 mm • Does not rotate on focus |
| Supplied accessories | • Front and rear caps • HB-47 Bayonet Hood • CL-1013 Lens Pouch |
| Weight | 290g (10.2 oz) |
| Dimensions | 73.5mm diameter x 54.2mm length (2.9 x 2.1 in) |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F only |
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