Nikon Unveils New Nikkor Lenses

Nikon is adding three news lenses to its F-mount Nikkor library, one of which is priced at a level that mere mortals can afford: a new premium zoom lens for DX (APS-C) Nikon SLRs.

The new AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80MM F/2.8-4E ED VR lens has a bit of everything, and will offer DX-format Nikon users higher-end features that are not typically seen on DX-format lenses. The most noted of the features is the addition of Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat. The Nano Crystal Coat will help to avoid glare and ghosting issues that plagued earlier lenses, while the fluorine coatings on the front and rear elements help shed dirt, smudges and moisture.

This is also the first DX-format lens to use a circular 7-bladed electromagnetic aperture diaphragm, which Nikon claims will help provide consistent exposure during high-speed photography.

The lens will provide DX-format photographers the equivalent of a 24-120mm- focal length. This will open up a wide range of shooting opportunities from landscapes to portraits. It would also be the perfect companion as a single lens travel setup. While it is a variable f/2.8-4.0 aperture range it will still offer shallow depth of fields and good brightness throughout its range, making it easier to photograph in lower light scenes and create pleasing background blur and subject isolation. For the shaky handed amongst us, the Vibration Reduction system is rated for four stops of image correction, further helping users to capture sharp subjects in low light at slower shutter speeds.


Photographers with very old Nikon SLRs should take note of the E in the lens name; it means that the aperture is electronically controlled. This allows for more consistent exposure when shooting in continuous drive mode.The lens can be used only on a D3000, D5000, or D7000 series, or a D300 DX SLR camera.

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80MM F/2.8-4E ED VR is now available in retail price of around $1,069.95 in the US.