PENTAX U.K. announces the launch of the smc PENTAX-D FA MACRO 100mm F2.8 WR, an interchangeable macro lens designed for use with PENTAX digital and film-format SLR cameras. The new lens combines a high-quality exterior finish with PENTAX-original weather-resistant construction for demanding outdoor photography.

Main features of the smc PENTAX-D FA MACRO 100mmF2.8 WR

1. Quality exterior finish with high-grade aluminium barrel

This macro lens features a high-grade aluminium barrel, and its exterior design has been greatly refined from that of the existing D FA-series lenses, offering a more sophisticated, quality appearance. The entire mechanism of the focus ring has been reviewed and upgraded to enable flawless manual-focus operation.

2. Simplified weather-resistant construction for greater reliability outdoors

The lens features a simplified weather-resistant construction, protecting the lens barrel from moisture. By mounting the lens on a PENTAX weather-resistant digital SLR camera body, it offers greater durability and reliability when shooting in conditions such as rain or mist. The lens also features the PENTAX-original SP (Super Protect) coating on its front surface to repel dust, water and grease and to minimise fingerprints and cosmetic spots.

3. Rounded diaphragm blade to produce a beautiful bokeh

The PENTAX-D FA MACRO 100mm F2.8 WR is the first PENTAX interchangeable macro lens featuring a completely rounded diaphragm blade. This creates a natural, beautiful bokeh, while minimising the streaking effect of point light sources.

4. High-quality image description

The lens offers a focal length equivalent to 153mm in the 35mm format. Inheriting the high-performance optics of the renowned smc PENTAX-D FA MACRO 100mm F2.8 lens, it delivers high-quality, true-to-life images, while minimising flare and ghost images. Its maximum magnification of life size allows the photographer to capture dramatic close-up images with great ease.

5. Other features

1) A working distance of 13cm (in life-size applications) to facilitate the shooting of difficult subjects, such as insects

2) The PENTAX-developed Quick-Shift Focus System for instant switching to manual-focus operation after the subject is captured in focus by the camera’s AF system

3) An image circle accommodating the image size of 35mm film-format cameras

4) Compatibility with the macro adapter included in the PENTAX AF160FC Dedicated Auto Macro Flash

Price: RRP £679.99

Availability: December/January