Pentax 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC SMC DA WR

 
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(From Pentax lens literature) PENTAX Imaging announces the smc PENTAX-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR lens designed exclusively for use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras. This interchangeable zoom lens features a simplified weather-resistant construction and extra-smooth autofocus operation using a built-in motor, in addition to its high 7.5X zoom ratio.

Features:

High zoom ratio
When mounted on a PENTAX digital SLR camera body, this standard zoom lens offers a high zoom ratio of approximately 7.5 times covering the focal length range equivalent to 27.5mm wide angle to 207mm telephoto in 35mm format. This high zoom ratio gives the lens the versatility to capture images of a wide range of subjects and scenes that photographers come across in their shooting sessions from scenic images and snapshots to portraits and sports photos. The advanced PENTAX optics design technology keeps the lens compact and lightweight despite its high zoom ratio making it a versatile, maneuverable everyday-use lens.

Simplified weather-resistant construction
This zoom lens features a simplified weather-resistant construction to prevent the intrusion of water and moisture. By mounting it on a weather-resistant PENTAX digital SLR camera body, the user is assured of a durable, dependable digital imaging system that performs superbly even in rain and mist.

Extra-smooth Direct Current autofocus operation
A DC motor built into the lens’ AF (autofocus) unit assures extra-smooth autofocus operation.* With a rotation-free mechanism to keep the focus ring stationary during autofocus operation, users may hold the lens exactly as they would when using the lens in the manual-focus mode. * This lens is compatible with the PENTAX K-5, K-r, K-7, K-x, K-m, K20D, K200D, K100D Super and K10D (with Ver. 1.30 or later firmware installed) camera bodies. When mounted on other camera bodies, the focus mode is automatically switched to manual.

High-quality image rendering
Incorporating an ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass element, a hybrid aspherical element and a glass-molded aspherical element in its optics, the lens assures exceptional image rendering with minimal aberrations. These elements also contribute to the downsizing of the lens footprint.

Round-shaped diaphragm to produce beautiful bokeh
The lens features a completely rounded diaphragm to produce a natural, beautiful bokeh (out-of-focus) effect in depth of field imaging, while minimizing the streaking effect of point light sources.

Additional features

  • Minimum focusing distance of 0.4 meters over the entire zoom range
  • Quick-Shift Focus system for instant switching to manual-focus operation after the subject has been captured in focus by the AF system
  • SP (Super Protect) Coating applied to the front surface to repel dust, water and grease

This new lens will ship in October for $529.95 USD.