News/Views
Production Suspensions
Nikon will be suspending production of some accessories on February 6th. The accessories involved are: MC-21A Remote, MC36A Remote, DG-2 Magnifier, and SD-9 External Power Supply for Speedlights.
It appears that these are products that were produced by facilities that are being closed in Nikon's factory consolidation. It's unknown whether and when these products will begin production again.
Nikon also is closing two small lens production plants in Japan to consolidate lens production at a single plant. I don't expect the lens manufacturing changes to have any impact on which lenses continue in the lineup, or even ongoing supply in the markets.
Nikon's February Lens Discounts
It's a quiet month for instant rebates for Nikon, unlike in previous years. Nine Nikkor F-mount lenses are on sale:
- 16-35mm f/4G — US$100 off
- 20mm f/1.8G — US$80 off
- 24mm f/1.4G — US$200 off
- 24mm f/1.8G — US$70 off
- 28mm f/1.4E — US$200 off
- 28mm f/1.8G — US$70 off
- 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G — US$100 off
- 58mm f/1.4G — US$100 off
- 105mm f/1.4E — US$200 off
Two of those lenses—the 58mm and 105mm—are incredible lenses, and they don't tend to come on discount often. I'd have no reservations telling you to pick up either of those if you need that focal length and aperture.
The 28-300mm I covered in my Travel Lens Conundrum recently.
The 20mm and 24mm f/1.8Gs are lenses I recommend, and they're at reasonable prices.
All the others I have some reservation about, though they might be minor ones that don't impact you.
As I've noted, Nikon right now—as well as most of the camera industry—isn't in a discounting mood. Supply chain shortages and retailer limitations due to the pandemic have everyone fully valuing their inventories at the moment. If you're looking for bargains, those probably won't come until later in the year.
