Panasonic Announces New f/1.7 15mm Lens

This just in: Panasonic announced a new 15mm f/1.7 high speed Leica Summilux lens. This new optic will give about a 30mm full frame equivalent at a cool $599. As of today, this lens is available for preorder through B&H. If the rumors are true, we can expect the new 15mm f/1.7 to be bundled with the DMC-GM1 (pictured below) as early as June.

Recently, I've been rather impressed with the products being released by previously "dark horse" manufacturers like Panasonic and Samsung, both of which have really started to step up their game in terms of bodies and optics. These manufacturers seem to be following in the footsteps of Fuji and Olympus which have come to dominate the mirrorless market. I'm looking forward to seeing the performance this lens can get out of it.

Optically, this lens is composed of 9 elements in 7 groups with 3 aspherical elements. It also features Panasonic's new Nano Surface Coating (NSC) technology meant to reduce reflection and glare, and lightning fast AF.

Has Panasonic stepped up its game enough recently (especially considering this glass) to interest you?

[Via ePHOTOzine]