New Announcement: Panasonic Leica 100-400mm f/4-6.3 Telephoto Zoom

Today Panasonic announced its highly-anticipated extreme telephoto zoom, the Leica 100-400mm f/4-6.3. It takes its place as the lens with the longest focal length for the Micro Four Thirds system.

As the name suggests, the lens was designed in compliance with Leica-established standards. It features 20 elements in 13 groups and 0.5x magnification, which is excellent for a zoom of this length. Some significant features include the silent and quick 240fps AF Drive, zoom ring lock, integrated quick shifting tripod mount, and shift-away lens-hood.

Panasonic Leica 100-400mm f:4-6.3 DG Vario-Elmar Asph. Power OIS

Thanks to its high quality weather-sealed build, it is the perfect match for weatherproof bodies such as the Lumix GX8 or OM-D E-M1. It also comes with built-in optical stabilization and is compatible with the GX8’s very effective Dual I.S. system.

The lens will be priced at just under $1,800. It isn’t a cheap investment by any means but should satisfy the needs of wildlife and sports photographers who have been eyeing the Micro Four Thirds system.

If you are you interested in more details, you can check out the full press release at Panasonic.co.uk. There is also a preview at ePhotozine and a field test by photographer Daniel J.Cox who also published the video below.