Nikon’s forthcoming halo lens, the NIKKOR Z 58mm f/0.95 S Noct, is proving so incredibly popular with its customers that the Japanese manufacturer is struggling to meet demand, even before the lens has hit the shelves.
Nikon Japan released a statement saying that it had decided to temporarily suspend pre-orders as demand was “exceeding expectations” and that it will “take a considerable amount of time to deliver the product.”
The manufacturer offered its apologies and stated that it is endeavoring to catch up and will resume accepting pre-orders in the near future.
Given the amount of glass and technical precision required to make such an expensive lens in what is probably still very low numbers compared to other products, it wouldn’t take much to overwhelm the manufacturer’s capacity. What is surprising, however, is that such a niche and expensive product is proving so popular even before it’s reached market. That said, it’s quite possible that Nikon planned to make three lenses when suddenly four orders came through, throwing their production schedule completely out of the window.
Cynics might suggest that this announcement is a publicity stunt aimed to increase the amount of hype surrounding this lens, and the company does have form for apologizing that its products are simply too popular.
As it stands, you can still preorder this lens for a mere $7,996.95 over at B&HPhoto, but keep in mind that it might take a little longer than expected to turn up in the post. If that’s making you frustrated, consider that you can currently save $100 on the NIKKOR Z 50mm f/1.8 which probably doesn’t quite offer the same amount of bokeh but, despite being 16 times cheaper, does give you autofocus. Result!
Tell us which is your preferred option in the comments below.