September 19, 2013

Capture the Action at the Speed of Life: Nikon 1 AW1 is World’s First Waterproof and Shockproof Interchangeable Lens Camera

From tropical tides to a whitewater adventure, the Nikon 1 AW1 and two 1 NIKKOR AW lenses help capture family adventures, even when travelling off the beaten path

Mississauga, ON – Today, Nikon Canada Inc. announced the world’s first waterproof and shockproof interchangeable lens camera1, the Nikon 1 AW1. The durable and versatile AW1 is also freezeproof and thrives in harsh environments while delivering the high-performance features and incredible image quality that thrill-seeking families need to capture every moment. By land or by sea, from the tropics to snowy peaks, this newest addition to the Nikon 1 Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lens System (ACIL) is equipped with outdoor-friendly features to capture amazing photos and stunning Full HD (1080p) videos.

 

To complement the AW1, Nikon also introduced two new waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof lenses: the 1 NIKKOR AW 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6 and 1 NIKKOR AW 10mm f/2.8. Striking the ideal balance between portability and performance, the robust 11-27.5mm lens offers a versatile lens option with a 2.5x zoom range. Additionally, the portable wide-angle 10mm lens offers a fast f/2.8 aperture to help deliver a shallow depth of field and excellent low-light performance.

 

“As the world’s first waterproof and shockproof Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lens system, the Nikon 1 AW1 offers an exciting new option for the family that seeks both exhilaration and a durable yet versatile camera to complement active lifestyles,” said Gregory Flasch, National Advertising and Communications Manager at Nikon Canada. “The Nikon 1 AW1 and the new 1 NIKKOR lenses are always ready to capture the action with high-speed performance and incredible image quality that users have come to expect from the Nikon 1 system.”

 

The Nikon 1 AW1: The World’s First Waterproof and Shockproof Interchangeable Lens Camera

Whether the destination is to the beach, the slopes or a mountain pass, the Nikon 1 AW1 is a must-pack accessory for any adventure. Waterproof (up to 14.9m), shockproof (up to 2m) and freezeproof (down to -10°C), the AW1 can handle the toughest conditions while capturing fast action. Though built to be durable and robust, the camera retains a compact and lightweight body, making it easy to carry on any expedition, above or below sea level.

 

Additionally, the versatile Nikon 1 AW1 offers the unique feature set which adventurers of all levels can take full advantage of, whether tackling a black diamond slope or an unfamiliar trail. With built-in GPS technology, AW1 users can track their travels while identifying the exact longitude and latitude where an image or video was captured. The AW1 is also equipped with an altimeter, a depth gauge, an electronic compass and a virtual horizon indicator. What’s more, the camera’s pop-up flash is waterproof, allowing the user to add light to a scene automatically or on command.


 

Capturing the Perfect Shot: The Performance and Speed of the Nikon 1 AW1

Featuring both a 14.2-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor and Nikon’s EXPEED 3A image processing engine, the AW1 produces sharp, high-quality images and Full HD (1080p) videos with great detail and colour, even in challenging lighting situations. The Nikon 1 AW1 also sports a wide ISO range (160 to 6400), allowing users to capture sharp photos in a variety of lighting, even while handheld.

 

Swift performance and rapid response are hallmarks of the Nikon 1 system, and in similar fashion, the AW1 includes Nikon’s superfast and extremely responsive Advanced Hybrid Autofocus (AF) system that affords users the ability to capture incredibly fast-moving action. To capture even the fastest moving subjects with clarity, the 73-point AF array can lock on to the action in approximately 80 milliseconds2.To help ensure that no moment is missed, the AW1 offers the world’s fastest continuous shooting frame rate at 15 frames-per-second (fps) with continuous AF3 and continuous shooting at 60 fps when the focus is locked.

 

Ready for the Next Adventure: The Feature Set of the Nikon 1 AW1

The compact Nikon 1 AW1 strikes the perfect balance between creative and user-friendly features and controls. Similar to the Nikon COOLPIX AW110, the AW1 includes Action Control, which allows users to control certain functions of the camera simply by swinging it in the air. This feature makes it easier to adjust the camera underwater or when wearing gloves.

 

When using the Nikon 1 AW1, the Creative Mode menu provides an easy way to utilize full manual exposure controls (P,S,A,M) as well as Selective Colour, Miniature, Soft, Night Landscape, Backlighting and Night Portrait modes. Additionally, Easy Panorama provides a simple way to capture vast landscapes from a wide perspective of awe-inspiring landscapes.

 

The Nikon 1 AW1 includes Full HD (1080p) video capabilities as well as Advanced Movie Mode. In Advanced Movie Mode, users can shoot Full HD videos and high-resolution stills simultaneously. Additionally, Slow Motion Movies can capture all the action at either 400 fps or 1200 fps. The AW1 also features Enhanced Motion Snapshot Mode, which provides shooters with the option of capturing a quick passing moment with a short, slow-motion movie sequence in addition to a single defining still image.

 

When Best Moment Capture Mode is selected, camera users have access to Smart Photo Selector or Slow View modes. With Smart Photo Selector, the AW1 can capture up to 20 shots with a simple press of the shutter button, and the camera will select the best shot. Slow View is ideal for extreme action sports; once focus is achieved and the shutter button is pressed halfway down, users capture live action (approx. 1.33 seconds) while the subject is displayed in slow motion on the screen. A slowed-down view is then continuously looped over until the shutter is fully pressed, resulting in an amazing moment that would have otherwise been missed.

 

Furthermore, the Nikon 1 AW1 features an intuitive Auto Mode to help users frame the perfect shot with ease. It also comes equipped with Live Image Control, giving the user access to real-time adjustments of Active D-Lighting, Background Softening, Motion Control and Brightness Control, which are displayed on the AW1’s LCD screen prior to capture.

 

When it’s time for some aquatic action, the Nikon 1 AW1 offers several underwater controls. When in Underwater mode, users can choose from three options (standard, diving, close-up), which will automatically adjust the camera’s settings to deliver optimal results based on the type of activity in which they are participating. Additionally, the Underwater White Balance setting makes adjusting white balance simple, while the Underwater Distortion Control corrects the effects of distortion caused by water.

 


Share the Adventure: Wirelessly Send Images from the Nikon 1 AW1

For those who want to share images from their latest expeditions instantly, users will be able to take advantage of the AW1’s Wi-Fi capabilities. Similar to previous Nikon 1 system cameras like the Nikon 1 J3, the AW1 is fully compatible with Nikon’s optional WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter4 (sold separately), allowing high-quality images to seamlessly be transferred to smart devices wirelessly.  If using Nikon’s free Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application for Android™5 platform smart devices as well as iPhone® and iPad®6 mobile digital devices, AW1 users will have the ability to remotely take photos with the camera from a smartphone or tablet.

 

The 1 NIKKOR AW 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6 and AW 10mm f/2.8: Lenses for the Nikon 1 AW1

Alongside the Nikon 1 AW1, the waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof 1 NIKKOR AW 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6 and 1 NIKKOR AW 10mm f/2.8 provide two versatile lens options for users looking for a compact camera system that can keep up with their active lifestyles. When attached to the AW1, these lenses can handle tough conditions while being waterproof (up to 14.9m), shockproof (up to 2m) and freezeproof (down to -10°C). The compact 11-27.5mm is a lightweight yet durable lens that packs a 2.5x zoom (30-74mm equivalent) and is ideal for capturing landscapes and portraiture during a family’s latest expedition. Portable and ultra-compact, the 10mm provides AW1 shooters with a wide angle of view, useful when capturing everything from sweeping landscapes to close-up action that fills the frame. Not to be outdone, the 10mm has a fast aperture of f/2.8, to capture special moments with incredible clarity and a soft natural background, even in challenging light such as dusk or when underwater.

 

For further versatility when out of the water, the Nikon 1 AW1 is fully compatible with the expanding lineup of incredibly sharp 1 NIKKOR lenses, Nikon 1 accessories, as well as a wide range of F-Mount NIKKOR lenses when connected to the FT-1 Mount Adapter.

 

Nikon 1 Accessories: New Skins Provide More Control and Personal Flair

Nikon also introduced new accessory skins for the Nikon 1 AW1, 1 NIKKOR AW 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6 lens and 1 NIKKOR AW 10mm f/2.8 lens. To provide more grip, comfort and control when shooting, the new accessory skins provide extra protection while also adding visibility and personal flair to their Nikon 1 Camera System setup.

 

For those adventurers looking for the flexibility to swap lenses in environments with extreme temperature and humidity changes, Nikon has developed a new filter attachment, the AW 40.5 Filter NC, to effectively combat the common occurrence of condensation. Nikon has also announced the development of the SB-N10 Underwater Speedlight. The SB-N10 will offer extra illumination when capturing still images underwater or in extreme low-light conditions.

 

Price and Availability

The Nikon 1 AW1 will be available as a one-lens kit with the 1 NIKKOR AW 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6 lens and as a two-lens kit with the 1 NIKKOR AW 11-27.5mm f/3.5-5.6  and 1 NIKKOR AW 10mm f/2.8 lenses.

 

The Nikon 1 AW1 kit with the 11-27.5mm lens is scheduled to be available in October 2013 at Authorized Nikon Canada Dealers at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $849.95.

 

The Nikon 1 AW1 two-lens kit with the 11-27.5mm and 10mm lenses is scheduled to be available in October 2013 at Authorized Nikon Canada Dealers at an MSRP of $1,049.95.

 

The 1 NIKKOR AW 10mm f/2.8 lens is scheduled to be available in October 2013 at Authorized Nikon Canada Dealers at an MSRP of $329.95.


To complement consumers' preferences, the Nikon 1 AW1 kits will come in three different colours including black, silver and white. Additionally, the new accessory skins for the AW1, 11-27.5mm lens and 10mm lens will come in a variety of colours including black, khaki and orange. These skins are scheduled to be available in October 2013 at Authorized Nikon Canada Dealers for the MSRP of $39.95.

 

The Filter AW 40.5 NC attachment is scheduled to be available in Spring 2014 at Authorized Nikon Canada Dealers. MSRP has not yet been announced.

 

For more information on these new Nikon 1 Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lens System products as well as other Nikon products, please visit www.nikon.ca.  

 

Exclusive Canadian Warranty

Nikon Canada offers an exclusive two-year warranty for all Nikon 1 CX-format cameras, and an exclusive five-year warranty for all Nikon 1 NIKKOR interchangeable lenses purchased from a Nikon Canada Authorized Dealer. Nikon Canada also offers a two-year warranty for all COOLPIX digital cameras and select digital SLR cameras purchased from an Authorized Nikon Canada Dealer.

 

About the NIKKOR brand
With a comprehensive assortment of FX and DX-format lenses and focal lengths, from the ultra-wide 10-24mm to the super telephoto 800mm VR, Nikon photographers have come to rely upon the NIKKOR core technologies that contribute to their optical superiority. NIKKOR is the brand name for Nikon’s photographic lenses, which are precision crafted to the most exacting standards in Nikon’s own glassworks. In 1933, Nikon marketed its first camera lens under the NIKKOR brand name, the “Aero-NIKKOR” for aerial photography applications. Since then, NIKKOR has been used as a brand name for Nikon’s lenses that symbolizes durability, high image quality and optical excellence.

 

About Nikon

Nikon, At the Heart of the Image™, is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Canada distributes consumer and professional digital SLR and HD-SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and System Accessories; Nikon COOLPIX® compact digital cameras; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics as well as the Nikon 1 advanced system cameras with interchangeable lenses. In 2013, Nikon Corporation celebrates the 80th anniversary of the launch of its NIKKOR brand of photographic lenses. In the same year, production of NIKKOR lenses surpassed 80 million, creating a new milestone in Nikon’s heritage of superior optics. At the heart of every Nikon camera is Nikon's exclusive EXPEED, EXPEED 2 or EXPEED 3 advanced digital image processing system technologies. All Nikon Canada products are sold through a network of Authorized Nikon Canada Dealers. For more information on Nikon Canada and its products and services or to find an Authorized Nikon Canada Dealer, visit www.nikon.ca.

 

1Among digital cameras with interchangeable lenses available as of September 9, 2013 (according to research conducted by Nikon Corporation).

2Among digital cameras with interchangeable lenses available as of September 9, 2013 as determined by Nikon performance tests; measured when using the single-point AF mode and the shortest focal length of 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 (according to research conducted by Nikon Corporation).

3Among digital cameras with interchangeable lenses available as of September 9, 2013 (according to research conducted by Nikon Corporation).


4Nikon’s free Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility Application must be installed on the smart device before it can be used with the WU-1b Wireless Mobile Adapter connected to the Nikon 1 AW1. The application can be downloaded free of charge from Google Play™ or the Apple App Store. For use with Android or iOS mobile devices, please refer to mobile device compatibility and available features at https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nikon.wu.wmau&hl=en (Android) or https://itunes.apple.com/en/app/wireless-mobile-adapter-utility/id554157010 (iOS).

5Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google, Inc. 
6iPhone, iPad and iTunes are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

 

Photos are available upon request and can be accessed in the Nikon Canada press room: http://en.nikon.ca/about-nikon/press-room/index.page.

 

Note: Specifications, design, product name, standard accessories and release schedule may differ by country or area. Pricing is subject to change. Refer to www.nikon.ca for the latest pricing.

 

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YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/NikonCanada

 

 

For more information:

Dianna Lai / Maxine Cheung                                                  

StrategicAmpersand                                                               

dianna@stratamp.com                                                                       

maxine@stratamp.com