Tamron announces ultra-wide 17-35mm zoom for Nikon; Canon-mount variant in the works too

 

 

Nikon shooters looking for a wide-angle zoom lens will have a new choice to consider shortly. Japanese lens manufacturer Tamron yesterday launched its newest model, the 17-35mm F/2.8-4 Di OSD (Model A037). Aimed at landscape photographers in particular, the new Tamron 17-35mm is said to be the smallest and lightest full-frame, ultra wide-angle zoom with an aperture of f/4 or faster.

Based around an optical formula of 15 elements in 10 groups, including four low-dispersion lens elements and two glass molded aspherical elements, the 17-35mm zoom also has a seven-bladed iris. Both Tamron's broad-band anti reflection coating and a dust/smudge resistant fluorine coating are included, with the latter being applied on the frontmost element. The lens can focus to as close as 11 inches (28cm) for a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.9. Dimensions are just 3.5 inches long with a diameter of 3.3 inches and a weight of 16.2 ounces.

 

 

Also included are the company's Optimized Silent Drive autofocus system for silent focus adjustments with "vastly improved" performance and speed, plus moisture-resistant seals in the lens mount and "other critical locations". Support for Tamron's TAP-in Console accessory is also on the feature list as you'd expect, allowing focus system adjustments and firmware upgrades from a USB-attached computer. 

The Tamron 17-35mm F/2.8-4 Di OSD goes on sale in Nikon-mount form from September 4th 2018, affordably priced at around US$600. A Canon EF-mount equivalent is also in the works, but no information has yet been provided as to when it will reach market. Watch this space for more news at a future date!