A new lens for the micro four-thirds system is coming from Panasonic. They have officially announced Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 8-18mm f/2.8-4.0, a wide zoom lens developed in collaboration with Leica.
The lens has a series of low dispersion and aspherical elements for sharp and clear photos. It also provides controlled fringing and aberrations. In addition, it’s durable, with splash-, dust- and freeze-proof features.
This lens is a part of Panasonic’s Leica DG Vario-Elmarit f/2.8-4.0 Series. The series was designed to cover the distance from ultra-wide angle to super telephoto, and this lens is the created for capturing wide angles with high quality and performance.
The lens is rugged and tough metal body makes it pretty resilient. It’s dust- and splash-proof, and even freeze-proof down to -10℃.
Here are the rest of the specs:
| Performance | |
| Focal Length | 8 – 18mm Comparable 35mm Focal Length: 16 – 36 mm |
| Aperture | Maximum: f/2.8 – 4 Minimum: f/22 |
| Camera Mount Type | Micro Four Thirds |
| Format Compatibility | Micro Four Thirds |
| Angle of View | 107° – 62° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 9.06″ (23 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.12x |
| Elements/Groups | 15/10 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7, Rounded |
| Features | |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Physical | |
| Filter Thread | Front: 67 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 2.89 x 3.46″ (73.4 x 88 mm) |
| Weight | 11.11 oz (315 g) |
As for the availability, the lens is now available for preorders and you can get yours for $1,098. The shipping is expected to begin in late May 2017.
