Published Jun 29, 2021 |
Alongside the new retro-styled Z fc and its vintage-inspired (but optically identical to the existing version) 16-50mm kit zoom, Nikon has released a compact 28mm prime for full-frame and has also announced the development of a long-awaited 18-140mm zoom for DX format.
The NIKKOR Z 28mm F2.8 (SE) is one of the pair of compact prime lenses that have been on Nikon’s roadmap for a while (and were recently confirmed as coming this year). It’s unusual to see a ‘special edition’ of something released before the standard edition, but these are strange times. Billed by Nikon as ‘fast, fun and affordable’, the new 28mm is an FX lens, which provides a field of view equivalent to 42mm on the APS-C format Z fc. Optically the new lens comprises 8 elements in 7 groups, with its tiny front element and a relatively large rear element being characteristic of many small prime lenses for mirrorless. Focus is driven by twin stepping motors, and the minimum focus distance is 19cm (~7.5″). The front filter thread is 52mm.
No word on weather-sealing, but it seems unlikely. Despite the film-era cosmetics, this is a lightweight (160g / 5.7 oz) lens, primarily made from plastic – which even extends to the mount. The Z 28mm F2.8 (SE) will be available next month as part of a kit with the Z fc, or separately for $299 in fall.
Also coming later this year is the Z DX 18-140mm F3.5-6.3 VR, a 7.8X zoom lens for Nikon’s APS-C DX format, That’s all we know about the forthcoming lens for now, but Nikon Z50 owners have been crying out for a travel zoom since that camera was announced, so hopefully they won’t have too much longer to wait.
Press release:
Nikon’s Newest Mirrorless Camera Complemented with an Assortment of New Compact NIKKOR Z Lenses
MELVILLE, NY (June 29, 2021) – Today, Nikon announced the Z fc, a DX-format camera that combines the latest mirrorless technology with classic design and functionality. It’s the compact and lightweight everyday companion that evokes both the urge to create and to take the time to embrace the moment. Featuring a heritage-inspired design, satisfying analog controls and craftsmanship that’s both unique and functional, the Z fc is built to be a thoroughly modern camera that’s simply a joy to use for everything from stunning street snaps, self-portraits, vlogging or 4K UHD video content. Nikon has also announced two stylized lenses to complement the compact nature and aesthetic of the camera, plus additional NIKKOR Z lenses coming this year with a focus on small size and big performance.
“The Z fc is the kind of camera many have been waiting for, and that only Nikon could create. It’s exceptionally slim, yet offers superb image quality and features, with iconic styling and precise tactile controls. It’s a joy to carry and use for casual street photography, streaming, or just living in the here and now,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “It’s no coincidence that we are also announcing a variety of compact lenses alongside the camera to perfectly complement the iconic aesthetic.”
Fusion of Classic Design + Z Series Technology
The Z fc embraces both Nikon’s heritage and our future with the powerful Z mount to create something truly beautiful; it’s a distinctly designed camera that has the performance to keep pace, but also serves as a reminder to appreciate the moment.
More NIKKOR Z Lenses
As the family of NIKKOR Z lenses rapidly expands, Nikon is releasing a variety of small, high performance FX and DX-format lenses. These lightweight lenses are easy to carry every day, and pair perfectly with the new Z fc as well as other Z series cameras.
Pricing and Availability
The Nikon Z fc will be available in classically styled black and silver starting late July 2021 (US) in a variety of kit configurations; the body-only will be available for a suggested retail price (SRP)* of $959.95, or paired with the silver NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens for $1,099.95 SRP. The silver NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens will be available separately starting in late July for $299.95 SRP. The NIKKOR Z 28mm f/2.8 (SE) special edition lens will be available in a kit with the Z fc camera for $1,199.95 SRP starting in late July, and sold separately starting in fall 2021 for $299.95 SRP.
The six additional color options will be available in limited supply as a kit with the silver NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR for $1,199.95 SRP and will be sold exclusively through nikonusa.com.
For more information about the latest Nikon products, including the new NIKKOR lenses and the entire Nikon Z series, please visit nikonusa.com.
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Specifications, equipment, and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.
The appearance of the product may differ from the photo shown above.
*SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.
Principal specifications | |
---|---|
Max Format size | 35mm FF |
Focal length | 28 mm |
Image stabilization | No |
Lens mount | Nikon Z |
Aperture | |
Maximum aperture | F2.8 |
Minimum aperture | F16 |
Aperture ring | No |
Number of diaphragm blades | 7 |
Optics | |
Elements | 9 |
Groups | 8 |
Special elements / coatings | 2 aspherical elements |
Focus | |
Minimum focus | 0.19 m (7.48″) |
Maximum magnification | 0.2× |
Autofocus | Yes |
Motor type | Stepper motor |
Full time manual | No |
Focus method | Internal |
Distance scale | No |
DoF scale | No |
Physical | |
Weight | 160 g (0.35 lb) |
Diameter | 72 mm (2.83″) |
Length | 43 mm (1.69″) |
Sealing | No |
Colour | Black |
Filter thread | 52 mm |
Hood supplied | No |
Tripod collar | No |