Pentax DA 12-24mm is announced. The The smc PENTAX DA 12-24mm lens is the sixth lens from Pentax designed specifically for their digital SLR cameras. The new Pentax DA 12-24mm lens has a maximum aperture of F4 throughout the zoom range and offers an angle of view from 99 degrees to 61 degrees. The smc PENTAX DA 12-24mm features a Quick-Shift focusing system that allows you to instantly switch the focus mode from auto to manual with a slight twist of the focus ring. Price and availability of the Pentax DA 12-24mm lens to be confirmed.

Pentax USA Press Release

GOLDEN, CO (March 15, 2005)…PENTAX Imaging Company has announced yet another compact, lightweight, interchangeable zoom lens for exclusive use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras including the *ist D and the *ist DS digital SLRs. The smc PENTAX-DA 12mm-24mm F4 ED AL [IF] is the sixth DA-series lens offered by the photo manufacturer.  The PENTAX-DA 12mm-24mm F4 ED AL [IF] will feature: 

* 2X zoom coverage in the ultra-wide angle range with an angle of view from 99 degrees to 61 degrees (equivalent in focal length from 18.5mm to 37mm in the 35mm format) when mounted on the PENTAX *ist D or *ist DS digital SLR camera body
* 13-element/11-group optical construction incorporating ED (Extra-low Dispersion) and aspherical optical elements
* The compact dimensions (diameter x length) of 3.3½ x 3.4½ (83.5mm x 87.5mm)

As with all DA-Series lenses, this lens features a responsive “Quick-Shift Focus System” that allows photographers to instantly switch the focus mode from auto to manual with a slight twist of the focus ring.  Coupled with a simple, functional design and the elimination of an aperture ring, this new mechanism considerably improves operability.  With Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass lens element and two aspherical lens elements, the lens offers more true-to-life image reproduction.  The image circle in DA-series lenses is designed to perfectly match the 23.5mm x 15.7mm size of the CCD used in PENTAX digital SLRs to optimize camera performance.  The new design also contributes to a drastic reduction in size, weight and production cost, compared to 35mm-format counterparts with similar specifications.

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of digital and film cameras, scopes, eyepieces, binoculars, lenses, mobile printers, scanners and internet cameras.  For more than 80 years, PENTAX technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses.  With corporate headquarters located in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX of America, Inc.