Fujifilm announces bright 16-55mm lens for X-series

Fujifilm has announced a new lens for its X-series system cameras. The new Fujinon XF 16-55 f/2.8 WR has a fixed brightness of f/2.8 over the entire range and can withstand bad weather. It is also provided with a new type of coating, called Nano-GI.

Until now, X-series mirrorless cameras, such as the X-T1 and X-E2, have been supplied with the XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4. It was very bright for a kit lens, but it couldn’t withstand bad weather conditions, unlike bodies like the X-T1. It soon became clear that Fuji was working on a new, bright and rainproof standard zoom lens.

The new XF 16-55mm f/2.8 WR delivers on this promise. It offers a bit more wide angle, which amounts to 24 mm instead of 27 mm, converted to full-frame equivalent. The light intensity is now no longer variable, but the same for every focal length. According to Fujifilm, the wide-open lens at f/2.8 already produces razor-sharp images. It can withstand water and dust and continues to work in temperatures down to -10°C.

The 16-55mm f/2.8 WR contains seventeen lens elements in twelve groups, including three aspherical elements to combat chromatic aberration and distortion. It also features a newly developed coating, which Fuji has dubbed Nano-GI, where GI stands for Gradient Index. This coating should reduce ghosting and flares. Fujifilm claims a fast 0.06-second autofocus when paired with a phase-detection camera like the X-T1. The lens weighs 655 grams.

In the US, the 16-55mm f/2.8 WR will cost $1,199. Presumably, the suggested retail price here will be 1199 euros.