Lens News

There was considerable buzz generated at The Photography Show in Birmingham, England last week with the unveiling of the new Irix premium lens line from TH Swiss. The first in what promises to be an assortment of premium glass is the ultrawide Irix 15mm f/2.4.

Said to combine the best aspects of Swiss design and Korean precision manufacturing capability, this new manual focus rectilinear lens is designed for use with Canon EF, Nikon F, and Pentax K full-frame DSLRs. Designed for landscape, photojournalism, interior and architectural photography, the Irix 15mm f/2.4 promises exceptional optical performance, slick design, and rugged, high-tolerance build quality.

Features include focus lock, a handy hyperfocal scale, and an “infinity click” feature that provides an audible click when the lens is focused to infinity. Image quality is enhanced thanks to an innovative optical design with 15 elements in 11 groups—including three elements with a high refractive index and two made from extra–low dispersion glass. There are also two glass aspherical elements intended to minimize aberrations and distortion while enhancing brightness at the edges.

The lens is also equipped with inner seals for protection against dust, moisture and the occasional splash. One unique feature is that the lens accepts standard 95mm thread-on filters and has a rear slot for gelatin filters.

There are actually two versions of the Irix 15mm f/2.4 lens: The Blackstone model with a durable magnesium/aluminum body for use in extreme situations, and the Firefly model designed to be the lightest lens in its class. A number of accessories will be available, including both soft and hard cases and a variety of premium-quality filters. A lens hood is included.

Pricing has yet to be announced, and both versions of the lens are expected to ship sometime this spring.