Sigma launches the new APO MACRO 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens, the first of its kind in the world.

Sigma launches the new APO MACRO 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens, the first of its kind in the world.
Gentec International is pleased to announce the release of the new Sigma APO MACRO 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM, a high-performance, large-aperture telephoto macro lens incorporating advanced optics and Sigma’s optical stabilizer (OS) function. This is the first 180mm optically stabilized telephoto macro lens in the world, with a reproduction ratio of 1:1 and a maximum aperture of F2.8. With a minimum focusing distance of 47cm, the telephoto focal length of this lens allows the photographer to take macro photos of highly sensitive subjects, such as butterflies and insects, from a greater working distance. Sigma’s proprietary optical stabilizer (OS) system allows the use of shutter speeds up to four stops slower than would otherwise be possible with handheld photos or in low-light environments, which is particularly important in the macro range where only a small amount of motion blur can compromise a photo. As one of Sigma’s flagship offerings, the new lens delivers uncompromised performance through the use of three “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) glass elements. Superior to ordinary optical glass, FLD glass is the highest quality low-dispersion glass available. With extremely high light transmission and exceptional correction of chromatic aberrations, FLD glass ensures high-definition and high-contrast images. The lens features an advanced optical design and Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating to effectively control flare and ghosting and ensure the highest image quality, even in backlit conditions. A floating inner focusing system compensates for astigmatism and distortion, providing extremely high optical performance from infinity to 1:1 macro. The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) ensures fast and quiet auto-focusing; full-time focus override allows the photographer to adjust the focus manually without switching the lens to MF mode. This is a professional quality lens that incorporates metal components in the lens barrel for durability and a specially treated brass bayonet mount for greater strength and improved long-term performance. It incorporates a nine-blade diaphragm that produces an attractive round blur to the out of focus areas of the image. To increase focusing speed and accuracy, the lens also incorporates a focus limiter to restrict the range of auto focus operation. Attaching Sigma’s optional teleconverters allows photographers to shoot at an even greater working distance or with a magnification ratio larger than 1:1. The suggested retail price of the Sigma APO MACRO 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens is $1,899.95. The new lens will be available for Canon in mid-August and Nikon in September; Sony and Sigma models will follow.   SPECIFICATIONS: Focal Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180mm Minimum Aperture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F22 Lens Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Elements in 14 Groups Angle of View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13.7° Number of Diaphragm Blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 (rounded diaphragm) Minimum Focusing Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 cm / 18.5” Maximum Magnification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:1 Filter Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 mm Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diameter: 95 mm / 3.7” x Length: 203.9 mm / 8” Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,640 g / 57.8 oz Mounts (AF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canon, Nikon, Sony, Sigma Includes: Case, Lens Hood (LH927-01), Hood Adaptor (HA927-01), Tripod Socket (TS-21) Appearance and specifications are subject to change for improvement without notice.