Those lenses we all dream of owning but that only few truly need (and are able to afford) just got a refreshed introduction with a focus on weight reduction combined with the implementation of the latest lens coat and crystal technologies. With the new additions, however, come brand new price tags in excess of $2,000 more than the predecessors for the AF-S 500mm f/4E FL ED VR and AF-S 600mm f/4E FL ED VR lenses.
Magnesium alloy technology borrowed from Nikon's professional DSLR bodies work in tandem with Nikon's fluorite lens elements to reduce weight by 20 and 25 percent in the 500mm and 600mm lenses, respectively. Not to be confused with Nikon's fluorine coat that repels water, dirt, and oils from the front elements of the lenses (which each of the new releases also feature), fluorite crystal elements take the place of traditional, glass elements and enable "superior rendering with effective reduction of chromatic aberration." Weighing much less than their glass counterparts, fluorite elements significantly reduce weight in larger lenses that would otherwise require a greater amount of heavier glass; and in this case, they help make the pair the lightest full-frame f/4 lenses in the world in their respective focal lengths.
Nikon's Nano Crystal Coat, ED elements, and Super Integrated Coatings, vibration reduction with an additional "Sport Mode," and electromagnetic diaphragms round out the premium features of these high-end lenses to also make them some of the world's most lusted-after lenses.
The AF-S 500mm f/4E FL ED VR and AF-S 600mm f/4E FL ED VR can be pre-ordered for $10,296.95 and $12,296.95, respectively. Read the full press release here.
Was expecting reduced dimensions for the 400
will they take a check ?
A lens that big should be white.