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The Tokina AT-X 70-200 f4 PRO FX VCM-S is a new telephoto zoom lens for 35mm film and digital SLR cameras. Featuring a ring type focus motor and optical image stabilisation, the Tokina AT-X 70-200 f4 PRO FX VCM-S has 19 elements in 14 groups and offers a minimum focus distance of 1m throughout its zoom range. Weighing in at a little over 1kg, the Tokina 70-200mm f4 measures 167.5mm x 82.0mm and takes 67mm filters. Availability and pricing to be confirmed.

The lens will first come as a Nikon mount in Japan for about $1,477. With its price tag, the Tokina telephoto lens sits neck to neck with Nikon’s equivalent lens, the 70-200 f4, it will be interesting to compare their optics and IS systems. And let’s not forget the Tamron 70-200mm f2.8, which also comes in at the same price range for $1,399 with a bigger aperture to boot.

(According to the site, the MSR price is expected to be ¥150,000, which is about $1475 US dollars. That price is significantly higher than Canon’s 70-200 f/4L IS USM ($1350) and Tamron’s 70-200 f/2.8 VC USD ($1440), both of which are already very highly rated.)

One of the key features of this lens is the image stabilization which ensures that the lens remain steady even when hand-held and shooting. For users shooting wildlife and sports or fast action photography and often not having a tripod to rest the camera system on badly misses a image stabilization system in the lens.

The lens has both internal focusing mechanism and zoom which means a non-protruding lens barrel. Tokina has also provided a ring-type ultrasonic focusing motor which ensures that the lens is fast and silent when auto-focusing.

For sample images, visit http://www.kenko-tokina.co.jp/tokina/atx70-200.html#w08

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