The HD Pentax-D FA 70-200mm f/2.8 ED DC AW lens will start shipping next month

After several delays, Ricoh finally announced the release date of the new HD Pentax-D FA 70-200mm f/2.8 ED DC AW lens: March 18th, 2016. The US price of the lens is $2,296.9. Adorama and B&H are now taking pre-orders.

HD Pentax-D FA 70-200mm f/2.8 ED DC AW lens features and specifications:

• One of the most versatile zoom ranges, this 70-200mm lens provides a 105-300mm equivalent focal length range when used with Pentax APS-C DSLRs.
• A constant f/2.8 maximum aperture delivers consistent performance throughout the zoom range and is particularly beneficial to creating shallow depth of field imagery.
• Extra-low dispersion glass elements are incorporated within the optical design to minimize chromatic aberrations throughout the zoom range and produce high image clarity with edge-to-edge sharpness.
• High Definition (HD) and Aero Bright coatings have been applied to lens elements to reduce surface reflections, flare, and ghosting in order to deliver greater contrast and color fidelity. Additionally, a Super Protect (SP) coating also helps to protect the surface of exposed elements from fingerprints, water, dust, and oils and also makes the front and rear elements easier to clean.
• A Direct Current (DC) autofocus motor benefits from an internal focusing design and delivers fast, smooth, and quiet focusing performance.
• The Quick-Shift Focus System allows you to first use autofocus to acquire general focus on a subject, then instantly refine your focus position manually without the need for an AF/MF selector.
• A focus range limiter allows you to constrain the lens’ focus range between different sets of distances for faster performance and greater responsiveness.
• The weather-resistant construction utilizes 13 distinct seals to prevent moisture or dust from entering the lens.
• A removable, rotating tripod collar is included with the lens for better balance when shooting atop a tripod.

Specifications: