Zeiss's premium fast wide-angle for Nikon — the Distagon 35mm f/1.4 with legendary rendering.
The Zeiss Distagon T* 35mm f/1.4 ZF.2 is a premium manual focus wide-angle prime for Nikon F mount. Part of Zeiss's ZF.2 series, it provides the classic 35mm wide-angle perspective with a fast f/1.4 aperture and Zeiss's celebrated optical character. The Distagon designation indicates a retrofocus design optimised for SLR compatibility.
Optical performance is excellent with distinctive Zeiss character. Sharpness is very good from f/1.4 and outstanding by f/2.8. The T* coating provides exceptional contrast and flare resistance. Colour rendition has the precise, neutral Zeiss signature with outstanding micro-contrast. Bokeh is smooth. The 35mm f/1.4 combination is ideal for street and documentary work.
Nikon F mount (ZF.2) with electronic aperture communication, manual focus only. Filter thread is 72mm. Weight is approximately 830 grams — heavy for a 35mm. Build quality is outstanding with full metal construction. The Zeiss Milvus 35mm f/1.4 succeeded this with weather sealing. Also available in ZE (Canon EF) mount.
Available on the used market at moderate prices — the Milvus update has driven some demand away. Check smooth focus ring and clean optics. An outstanding fast wide-angle with Zeiss character. The weight is significant. The Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Art offers AF at similar optical quality; the Zeiss Milvus adds weather sealing.