As reported in the forums last month, lens maker Tokina has released a new version of its popular Tokina AT-X 107 AF DX Fisheye 10-17mm f/3.5-4.5 lens. Compared to its predecessor, the new lens has had the built-in lens hood removed, and a new coating added. The former allows a wider angle of view, particularly on FX cameras, and allows the lens to be used in a “wider variety of underwater housings”. The latter allows for easier removal of fingerprints or water spots.

The new lens is called the AT-X 107 NH (as opposed to DX), and is available in Nikon and Canon fittings. It is available now at $619.00.

The Tokina AT-X 107 NH is a fish-eye lens that gives the digital photographer an approximate 180° field of view with dramatic curvature of field or “fish-eye” effect. The AT-X 107 NH only differs from the AT-X 107 DX in that the built-in hood as been removed allowing for a wider image area and more coverage on full-frame sensor (FX) cameras.*

The front element of the AT-X 107 DX has a newly formulated WR or “Water Repellent” optical coating on the glass. This new coating makes marks such as spots left by water or finger-prints much easier to clean than standard multi-coating. With the built-in hood removed the lens also fits in a wider variety of underwater housings.

The rear optical group of the lens contains 1 SD (Super-Low Dispersion) glass element to reduce the number of elements (pieces of glass) in the optical design in order to make the lens more compact, light-weight and faster focusing.

*Full corner to corner image can be achieved on an FX camera between approx. 14.5-17MM depending on the camera model, at 10-14MM there is a semi-circular view.