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*November 1, 2005 - *Nikon UK has today announced the AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED lens, featuring the Silent Wave Motor in all AF-S lenses for quick and quiet focusing, and an enhanced Vibration Reduction (VR II) feature that supposedly provides a performance equivalent of four shutter speed stops faster.
According to Edward Fasano, general manager for Marketing, SLR Systems Products, at Nikon Inc., 'Nikon's range of DX Nikkor lenses, designed specifically for Nikon digital SLR cameras, has grown substantially since the introduction of the category, and the new 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor lens is an excellent addition offering Nikon digital SLR photographers an advanced all-purpose lens with superb optical performance and Enhanced Vibration Reduction capabilities.' Fasano continued by saying, 'Nikkor lenses are famous for their breathtaking sharpness, optimal contrast and consistent color rendition across its range of lenses with varying focal lengths. Now with the 18-200mm f/ 3.5-5.6G IF-ED AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor, Nikon photographers will be able to take advantage of remarkable versatility in one lens with assurance of the outstanding Nikkor image performance that has made Nikkor lenses renowned worldwide.'
The VR feature can operate in two modes; Normal, which includes automatic panning and tripod detection and compensates for intermittent camera-shake, and Active, which compensates for situations with prolonged vibration.
The new lens has an 18-200mm focal length (27-300mm in 35mm equivalent) or 11.1x zoom, with a maximum aperture of f/3.5-5.6 and a minimum of f/22-36, and can focus as close as 20 inches throughout its entire range. The lens itself is constructed of 16 elements in 12 groups, with two ED glass elements and three aspherical lens elements. The attachment size is 72mm. A bayonet hood, front cap, rear cap, and soft lens pouch are included with the lens.
The AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED lens will be available in December for $699.95.