Cosina Voigtländer has announced the expansion of its acclaimed Nokton Classic 35mm f/1.4 manual focus lens to include Canon RF-mount and Nikon Z-mount full-frame mirrorless camera systems. This development marks a significant move, bringing a lens celebrated for its distinctive rendering capabilities to a broader range of photographers who appreciate character over absolute clinical perfection. Originally launched for Sony E-mount in 2019, this compact and fast prime lens prioritizes artistic expression through its optical design, embracing certain aberrations to deliver images with a unique aesthetic.
The Voigtländer Nokton Classic 35mm f/1.4 stands apart in a market often dominated by lenses engineered for maximum sharpness and aberration correction. Cosina, the manufacturer, emphasizes that this lens is designed to produce "beautiful, character-filled rendering," suggesting a deliberate departure from the pursuit of purely technical excellence. Its optical construction comprises eight elements arranged in six groups, complemented by a 10-bladed aperture diaphragm, contributing to its signature bokeh and light handling. Both the new RF-mount and Z-mount versions incorporate electronic contacts, facilitating seamless integration with modern mirrorless cameras by supporting various focus-assist functions.
A notable enhancement in the RF-mount and Z-mount iterations is their improved close-focusing ability. These new versions can achieve a minimum focus distance of 0.27 meters (10.6 inches), allowing for a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5.47. This is a slight improvement over the 2019 Sony E-mount model, offering photographers greater versatility in capturing close-up subjects. While sharing similar dimensions, the RF-mount and Z-mount lenses feature subtle design differences, such as distinct knurling patterns on their manual focus rings—a scalloped design for the Z-mount and a diamond-knurled finish for the RF-mount. Despite these minor cosmetic variations, both lenses maintain a compact form factor, with the RF-mount weighing 260 grams (9.2 ounces) and the Z-mount 250 grams (8.8 ounces), and both accommodating 58mm front filters.
The introduction of the Nokton Classic 35mm f/1.4 for Canon RF and Nikon Z mounts provides an intriguing alternative to the autofocus-equipped 35mm f/1.4 lenses currently offered by Canon and Nikon. For instance, Canon's RF 35mm f/1.4L VCM is a high-performance, higher-priced option, while Nikon offers a more budget-friendly 35mm f/1.4 alongside its premium S-Line prime. In this context, the Voigtländer lens appeals to photographers who value manual control, a distinctive image signature, and a more tactile shooting experience. Its ability to create images with artistic imperfections rather than clinical precision sets it apart, offering a refreshing choice for those seeking a unique photographic voice.
As of the announcement, specific pricing and an exact release date for the Canon RF and Nikon Z versions of the Voigtländer Nokton Classic 35mm f/1.4 lens have not been disclosed. However, the E-mount variant typically retails for $799, occasionally offered at a promotional price of $599. This suggests the new mounts might fall within a similar price range, making them an attractive proposition for photographers looking to explore manual focus optics with a classic character.