Nikon evokes a 58mm classic with its "fastest NIKKOR lens ever"

Nikon has unveiled the latest NIKKOR Z-mount S-series lens, also known as the "Noct". It has been named for the 'OG' 58mm attachment from this OEM, 1977's Noct-NIKKOR f/1.2. It was admired for its light-point reproduction in low light. Its new tribute has improved on these original specs with an f-stop of up to 0.95. This, as the OEM claims, makes it the "fastest" lens of its brand to date.

This maximal aperture may enable the NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct to produce images that are "tack-sharp" even at the edges, thus making it ideal for astrophotography or nightscapes. However, it is also rated for an advanced depth of field and focus plane, thus enabling the 3D perception necessary for high-end bokeh while leaving the subject optimally defined.

Nikon also claims that data-transfer between this lens and a Z 7 or Z 6 camera is enhanced by the Z mount for which this new 58mm attachment has been designed. A cross-section of this new Nikon S-series lens would reveal 17 elements, including a large-diameter ground aspherical one, arranged into 10 groups.

Their combination is treated with a Nano Crystal Coat intended to eliminat incident light travelling diagonally towards the lens. This, along with some other developments, allow the new NIKKOR Z 58mm to escape unwanted ghosting or flare in back-lit situations. The lens' body also integrates an info-panel that allows the user to check aperture, focus distance and field-depth settings on the fly.

The NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct will go on sale from October 31, 2019 at a suggested retail price of US$7999.95 (buy Nikkor Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct now at Amazon). For this much, the buyer also gets the Nikon Trunk Case CT-101 and Hood HN-38 to carry and shield the huge new lens. Nikon will also release a new power pack (MB-N10) for its compatible cameras, which is intended to offer space for 2 batteries (EN-EL15b ) with a better grip for about $199.95, on this date.