Get ready X-T1 shooters: Fujifilm announces its first weather-resistant XF lens, the 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6

This lens has been quite a while in the making, and its arrival has been predicted all over the web. Now Fujiflm has made its first weather resistant X-mount lens official, the Fujinon XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR.

Sporting an equivalent focal length of roughly 27-206mm, the XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 is the ideal travel companion. With more than 20 sealing points, its weather-resistant design also makes it a perfect match for the weather-sealed X-T1, Fuji's current high-end X-series camera model. In combination, the two will make for the ideal outfit for the outdoor photographer who frequently photographs at wet places such as rivers, lakes, waterfalls or in the mountains.

In addition to its weather sealing, the XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 also sports a special ventilation system that helps prevent dust from settling inside the lens. An inner focusing mechanism using a linear motor helps to achieve focusing speeds of up to 0.1 seconds, provided the lens is mounted to an X-series camera body that supports phase-detection AF. The focusing motor of the lens also operates virtually silently, according to Fujifilm.

Besides environmental protection and fast autofocus, the lens also comes with what Fujifilm claims is the world's most advanced image stabilization mechanism. Supported by two gyro sensors inside the lens, Fujifilm claims the XF 18-135mm's image stabilization provides a five stop benefit compared to unstabilized lenses. This should come in especially handy when using the lens at its telephoto setting, as it allows for slower shutter speeds and lower ISO settings even at small apertures.

The optical construction of the lens contains 16 elements in 12 groups, including four aspherical and two anomalous dispersion glass elements, as well as Fuji's High Transmittance Electron Beam Coating for minimal ghosting. Filters can be attached via a 67mm filter thread. Measuring 3.85" (98mm) in length and 2.98" (76mm) in diameter, the Fujifilm XF 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 weighs in at 1.08 lb (490g). The lens will be available in July at an MSRP of US$899.95.

Ready to order one? Get in line with a pre-order at one of Imaging Resource's trusted affiliates: Adorama and B&H.