Summary
Nikon has announced the development of nine NIKKOR Z CINEMA T1.9 VV cinema lenses with autofocus and an image circle that will also cover the larger VV sensor of the RED V-RAPTOR [X].
On September 8, 2026, the company confirmed that it is working on the new series, specifically naming the NIKKOR Z CINEMA 50mm T1.9 VV. This is a development announcement rather than a commercial launch, and the other eight focal lengths have not been disclosed. The series is aimed at cinema, demanding productions and content creators.
The significance lies in the combination of a cinema-oriented design, autofocus and coverage beyond conventional full-frame. Following the Nikon ZR developed in collaboration with RED, the expansion now extends to lenses: Nikon states compatibility with Z-series mirrorless cameras and RED cinema cameras, including the V-RAPTOR [X] VV. The announcement is therefore relevant to more than the users of a single camera body.
What VV coverage means
Nikon defines the VV format in this announcement by reference to the RED V-RAPTOR [X] sensor, which measures 40.96 × 21.60 mm. According to the company, this will be the first NIKKOR lens series with an image circle large enough to cover that sensor, in addition to Nikon’s full-frame sensors.
In practical terms, the image circle describes the area a lens projects onto the sensor plane. This design choice means the series is not limited to covering Nikon’s full-frame bodies. However, optical coverage must be distinguished from mount compatibility: the relevant foundation already exists in the system through the RED cinema cameras that gained Nikon’s Z mount. The reference to RED does not mean that a Z-mount lens can be attached directly to any camera made by the company.
Autofocus and cinema controls
Nikon confirms that the lenses will feature an autofocus mechanism, which it describes as highly precise. It has not yet announced specific response or subject-tracking performance, so the system’s actual behaviour remains something that will need to be assessed in the final products.
For small crews and creators who operate the camera themselves, autofocus could provide greater flexibility, without restricting the series exclusively to productions with a dedicated focus puller. That is the practical appeal of the choice, rather than confirmed performance on set.
In the official image of the 50mm, an A/M switch, a focus-distance scale, T-stop markings and an IRIS LOCK control are visible. These are specific indications of the design’s cinema orientation, but Nikon itself warns that the final product’s appearance may differ.
Why T1.9 rather than f/1.9?
T1.9 is not simply another way of writing f/1.9. F-stops describe the relationship between focal length and aperture opening, while T-stops account for light losses within the lens.
On set, measuring in T-stops helps maintain consistent exposure when changing lenses, with other conditions and settings remaining the same. It is not, by itself, a measure of sharpness or image character.
What remains to be announced
Beyond the series name, the number of lenses and the 50mm T1.9 VV, Nikon has not provided a complete model list or detailed specifications. Information such as weight, dimensions, minimum focusing distance and the individual characteristics of the focusing mechanism remains unknown. The European presentation of the announcement also points to future updates.
Pricing and a release date have not been announced, nor has specific availability information for Greece and the rest of Europe. Consequently, it is not yet possible to establish either the cost of an individual lens or the cost of assembling a set for production.
What we think
The meaningful step is that Nikon is planning an entire series rather than a single cine lens. The combination of autofocus and VV coverage has practical appeal for productions of different sizes. However, the proposition’s ultimate value will depend on focal lengths, ergonomics, performance and pricing — details that have not yet been presented in full.
Frequently asked questions
Have all nine focal lengths been announced?
No. Nikon has confirmed that the series will include nine lenses, but it has named only the NIKKOR Z CINEMA 50mm T1.9 VV.
Will the lenses have autofocus?
Yes. Autofocus is a confirmed feature of the series currently in development. Detailed information about its performance has not yet been provided.
When will they launch, and how much will they cost in Greece?
A release date and pricing have not been announced. The September 8, 2026 update concerns the development of the series, not the start of sales.
