Pentax weatherproofs lenses

Pentax has two new zoom lenses available. The smc Pentax-DA18-55mmF3.5-5.6AL WR, and the smc Pentax-DA50-200mmF4-5.6ED WR. Both feature a simplified weather-resistant construction.

As well as changes inside the barrels, the front surfaces have been treated with a coating that applies a special fluorine compound to the lens surface to repel dust, water and grease and make it easier to wipe off smudges.

In addition, alterations to the curvature and positioning of certain optical elements have made the lenses, "practically free of flare and ghost images," claims the company, while the Quick-Shift Focus system allows the photographer to instantly switch to manual focus operation from automatic for final pin-point adjustment.

The smc PENTAX-DA18-55mmF3.5-5.6AL WR lens covers focal lengths from 27.5mm wide angle to 84.5mm moderate telephoto (in the 35mm format). Incorporating super-low-dispersion glass, the lens ensures outstanding image resolution and remarkable brightness, even at the edges, says Pentax.

The smc PENTAX-DA50-200mm F4-5.6ED WR lens covers focal lengths from 76.5mm moderate telephoto to 307mm super telephoto (in the 35mm format). It is useful for various telephoto applications including portraiture, sports/action and landscape.

Full specifications are available here: pentax.co.uk

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