Tokina has announced the release of the second redesigned lens in the new ATX-i series of lenses: the new ATX-i 100mm f/2.8 Macro for full-frame Canon and Nikon DSLR cameras.

According to the press release, the Tokina ATX-i 100mm f/2.8 features the “same great optics” as the older AT-X macro its replacing, but a “brand new look.” Like its predecessor, the new 100mm f/2.8 is made for full-frame Canon and Nikon DSLRs, and it produces a 1:1 magnification ratio at 11.8 inches (30cm) from the sensor plane, giving you “a very comfortable 4.5 inches of working distance.”

Just like the recently announced Tokina ATX-i 11-16mm f/2.8 CF, the all-new ATX-i 100mm f/2.8 FF Macro sports a new modern housing and is made up of 9 multi-coated lens elements in 8 groups.
The unit also boasts Tokina’s “flat-field” optical design that results in an extremely high corner to corner resolving performance and almost zero distortion.
This means the lens yields excellent edge-to-edge sharpness at all focus distances and apertures. The lens’ multi-coatings render natural color with extremely low light falloff, perfectly controlled chromatic aberration, flare, and ghosting.

The One-Touch Focus Clutch Mechanism makes switching from auto-focus to manual focus simple. While in AF mode the user only needs to snap the focus ring back toward the camera to engage “real” manual focus control. This gives photographers an authentic tactile MF feel with hard stops on either side of the focus range like traditional manual lenses. Additionally, the directional rotation of the focus ring matches the direction of proprietary Nikon and Canon lenses.

“This is the second lens offering in the new atx-i series.” says Yuji Matsumoto, President at Kenko Tokina USA. “It combines the award-winning optics of the original ATX model with a sleek new look that matches the cosmetics of today’s advanced DSLR cameras.”

Following some samples:

The Tokina ATX-i 100mm f/2.8 FF Macro lens will sell for a price of $430, with pre-orders starting on November 15th and shipping set for December 6th. That makes this lens significantly more affordable than comparable lenses made by Nikon and Canon, which cost $807 and $700, respectively.

More info on Tokina’s website.