The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is a new DX-format lens with an ultra-high 16.7x zoom ratio and a 27-450mm equivalent focal range. Complementing the versatile focal range is Nikon’s second-generation Vibration Reduction system, which is claimed to allow “substantially sharper handheld images across the zoom range.” The optical formula comprises 19 elements in 14 groups, including 3 aspherical and 3 ED lens elements. Offering a 45cm close-focus point at the 300mm setting, the Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR provides a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:3.2. An iris diaphragm with 9 rounded blades allows for a smooth rendering of the out-of-focus areas. Weighing in at 830 grams, the new Nikon 18-300mm lens comes with a CL-1120 soft pouch and a petal-shaped HB-58 hood. With availability slated for the end of June, the DX Nikkor 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is expected to retail at around £850/$1000.

(Note that unlike the also-new AF-S Nikkor 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G ED VR, the 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR is a DX lens whose imaging circle does not cover the full FX frame.)

Nikon Press Release

AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR - One for All

Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 14 June 2012 – Nikon today announces a new high-powered DX-format zoom lens with wide-angle to super-telephoto reach and Vibration Reduction. Boasting an ultra-high 16.7x zoom ratio and incredibly wide 18-300mm focal range, this new lens is a great all-rounder for photographers with a broad range of interests.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager Lenses, Accessories & Software, Nikon Europe says: “The great thing about the new 18-300mm DX lens is that you can head for a day out shooting without carrying a bag full of gear. Photographers who like to travel light won’t have to compromise on what they shoot because its remarkable zoom range covers most situations with ease.”

All in One

With its versatile wide-angle to super-telephoto reach, this 16.7x zoom lens is perfect for travel or for times when you only want to take one lens out with you. The remarkable 18-300mm focal range (FX-format/35mm equivalent: 27 to 450mm) easily covers most commonly used focal lengths, going further than many comparable lenses by offering 300mm reach and a maximum aperture of f/5.6 at the telephoto end of the range. From wide landscapes to tight portraits and action photography, this lens will capture it all.

Sharp and steady

Complementing the versatile focal range is Nikon’s second-generation Vibration Reduction system (VRII) — that allows substantially sharper handheld images across the zoom range and dramatically reduces image blur, even when taking extreme telephoto shots. Three Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass and three aspherical lens elements provide high resolution and superior contrast, and the nine blade rounded diaphragm opening makes out-of-focus elements blend together smoothly. Nikon’s compact Silent Wave Motor technology (SWM) combines fast and precise auto focus with super-quiet operation.

Built to travel

A practical zoom-lock switch keeps the lens secure when not in use, and it boasts a metal mount with rubber sealing for protection against dust and moisture.

This lens comes with a lens case CL-1120 and hood HB-58.

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