Nikon Unveils the 800mm f/6.3 VR S Z-Mount Lens
Nikon has announced for its Z-mount cameras the Nikkor 800mm f/6.3 VR S compact super-telephoto lens, which comes in at roughly 48% lighter and 16% shorter than its F-mount counterpart thanks in part to the use of a Phase Fresnel (PF) front element.
“This 800mm lens is smaller and lighter than ever imagined, which is a true testament to Nikon’s advanced optical expertise as well as the next-generation technology that’s at the core of the Nikon Z system,” said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikon Inc. “This latest NIKKOR Z lens is not only surprisingly easy to carry but also gives photographers the fast focus response, intense sharpness, and beautiful color reproduction they need to create amazing images from extreme distances.”
The new NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S lens is built with an emphasis on comfortable usability and extreme optical performance. The Phase Fresnel element is optimally positioned to minimize ghosting and is combined with three Extra-low Dispersion (ED) elements and one Short-wavelength Refractive (SR) element to effectively suppress axial chromatic aberration. The NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S was engineered with close attention to balance, as the lens’ center of gravity is positioned closer to the user’s body to enhance smooth panning motion while tracking swiftly moving objects such as a falcon in flight or banking plane.
It is constructed of 22 elements in 14 groups, including one PF element, three extra-low dispersion (ED) elements, and one Short-Wavelength Refractive (SR) element. Ir features a nine-blade rounded aperture diaphragm, includes a fluorine coating on the front-most element, and has a minimum focusing distance of 5m.
Primary features of the NIKKOR Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S:
- Extreme super-telephoto capability for Z-series photographers with an 800mm focal length that brings distant subjects in close, with incredible clarity and sharpness.
- Easy to pack and carry, weighing in at approx. 5.25lb (2385g) with a reduced footprint of 5.6 in. x 15.2 in.
- Features Nano Crystal Coat, as well as an optimized shape and location of the PF lens element that contributes to a reduction in ghosting for maximum clarity. This is especially useful when shooting into the sky or in the vicinity of bright light sources.
- The optical VR function provides a superior compensation effect equivalent to shooting at a shutter speed of 5.0 stops faster. When paired with the Nikon Z 9, an effect of 5.5 stops is achieved with Synchro VR activation.
- Built to pro standards: Rubber gaskets keep dust, dirt, and moisture out of the moving parts and the lens mount. The barrel is constructed of robust magnesium alloy, offering an ideal balance of strength and lightweight. The front element has Nikon’s nonstick Fluorine Coat, which repels oil, moisture, smudges, and easily wipes clean.
- A Memory Recall function instantly recalls focus positions that have been stored in advance, via pressing an assigned button. This function makes it simple to quickly acquire an anticipated subject on a branch or perch.
- Customizable controls include four L-Fn2 buttons and one L-Fn button, to which a wide variety of functions can be assigned to suit users’ preferences, including subject tracking, AF lock, playback, and more. A customizable control ring can also be assigned to adjust ISO, aperture, and exposure comp.
- The focal length can be extended to 1,120mm with the Z TELECONVERTER TC-1.4x, and 1,600mm with the Z TELECONVERTER TC-2.0x while maintaining outstanding resolution. Users of high-resolution cameras such as the Z 9 and Z 7II will appreciate the ability to also shoot in DX mode for even further extended reach (1,200mm).
Here are some sample pictures:
The Nikkor Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S lens will be available starting later this month for $6,500.
More info on Nikon’s website.
