Tokina delivers Sony-mount 11-16mm wide-angle zoom lens
posted Monday, November 18, 2013 at 5:52 PM EDT
A couple of years ago, Kenko Tokina launched the AT-X 116 Pro DX II, an 11-16mm f/2.8 wide-angle zoom lens that updated its earlier version with improved coatings, and for Nikon shooters, an SD-M autofocus motor and GMR sensor. These both allow use on bodies lacking a screw-drive focus motor, and improve focus efficiency. A few months later, the company's US division launched the same optic.
At the time of both launches, Canon and Nikon versions were announced, but -- unlike the original AT-X 116 Pro DX -- no Sony version. That was rather a shame, because the original lens was already well-received, holding an 8.1/10 rating from readers of our sister site, SLRgear.com, and the newer variant promised even better image quality thanks to its new coatings.
It's taken quite a while, but the oversight has now been addressed. Tokina Japan has just announced that the lens will begin shipping in Sony Alpha-mount form from November 21st in that country, giving Sony shooters the chance to get the improved image quality as well. As yet, there's been no announcement of a US release, but given that Tokina's factory is now turning out the Alpha-mount variant, it's likely only a matter of time before it arrives stateside.
More details for Japanese speakers can be found on Tokina's website. If you're not in Japan, watch this space.