Zeiss's ultra-wide for Nikon — the Distagon 21mm f/2.8 with legendary optical quality.
The Zeiss Distagon T* 21mm f/2.8 ZF is a premium manual focus ultra-wide prime for Nikon F mount. At 21mm on full frame, it provides a dramatic 90-degree field of view. The Distagon designation indicates a retrofocus design. The T* multi-coating provides exceptional contrast. This lens earned legendary status for its outstanding wide-angle optical quality.
Optical performance is excellent. Sharpness is very good from f/2.8 and outstanding by f/5.6. The T* coating provides some of the best contrast available in any wide-angle lens. Distortion is exceptionally well-controlled for 21mm. Colour rendition has the precise Zeiss character with outstanding micro-contrast. The rendering has a three-dimensional quality.
Nikon F mount (ZF) with aperture ring — the ZF version requires manual aperture setting. The later ZF.2 adds electronic aperture communication. Filter thread is 82mm — large. Weight is approximately 600 grams. Build quality is outstanding with full metal construction. Manual focus with a smooth, precise helicoid.
Available on the used market at moderate prices — the Milvus 21mm f/2.8 succeeded with weather sealing. Check smooth focus and clean optics. One of the finest 21mm lenses ever made. The ZF.2 version is preferred for electronic aperture convenience. An outstanding ultra-wide for Nikon shooters who value Zeiss optical quality.