The Pentax FA* 50mm f/1.4 SDM AW lens finally ships in July and will cost $1,199

Yes, that’s right Pentax shooters. The wait is almost over. The Pentax FA* 50mm f/1.4 SDM AW lens you’ve all been coveting is finally being released. Pentax says that this is the first new lens which follows a new set of standards for their top-of-the-line Star series lenses. New standards that will, they claim, help to minimise aberrations and deliver the highest possible image quality.

We took a brief look at the new lens along with the Pentax K-1 Mark II during The Photography Show a couple of months ago.

• Focal length: 50mm
• Max aperture: f/1.4
• Min aperture: f/16
• Mount: Pentax K
• Format: 35mm full frame
• Minimum focus distance: 39.62cm (1.3′)
• Optics: 15 elements in 9 groups
• Diaphragm blades: 9, Rounded
• Filter thread: 72mm
• Dimensions: 80 x 106mm (3.15 x 4.17″)
• Weight: 910g (32.1oz)

The lens features a newly designed ring-type motor, which offers up to 7.5 times as much torque as the SDM in previous generation lenses. This improved torque, they say, offers a smoother, high speed shift of the heavy lens elements during focusing. And coming in at a weight of just over 2lb, it sounds like it needs it. Basically, though, it should focus pretty quick compared to previous models.

It’s an “all weather” lens with a dustproof, weather-resistant body containing eight seals to prevent dust and water from entering into the lens interior. Paired with a compatible Pentax K mount body (we’ll get to that), it should be able to hold off just about anything. And we know how well Pentax’s weather sealing works.

The Pentax FA* 50mm f/1.4 SDM AW lens features an electronic aperture. This is what I meant about compatible bodies. But, that list covers many of the popular bodies.

• Pentax K-1 Mark II
• Pentax K-1
• Pentax K-3 Mark II
• Pentax K-3
• Pentax KP
• Pentax K-70
• Pentax K-S2
• Pentax K-S1

So, if you’ve got one of those, you’re good. And if you don’t, maybe it’s time to upgrade?

The Pentax FA* 50mm f/1.4 SDM AW lens is available to pre-order now for $1,199 and ships in July.