Nikon 1 to start shipping 24 October
updated 08:55 pm EDT, Wed October 5, 2011
Nikon 1 J1 and V1 available now for pre-order
The Nikon 1 range has been listed for pre-order on Amazon. Prices start at $649 for the J1 and top out at $1,149 for the V1 depending on model and specification chosen. The launch of the Nikon marks a rare start to a new camera format with its CX-format.
The new format uses a 2.7X crop factor, 10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and mirrorless interchangeable system that fits in below the Micro Four Thirds format, though remains larger and richer than the compact camera segment. The Nikon 1 series is also the first Nikon range to sport the dual-core Expeed 3 processor, which is critical in delivering a fast 73-point, phase-based autofocusing system that Nikon purports is faster than those fitted to the recent Olympus PEN cameras.
Additionally, the Nikon 1 J1 and V1 also offer exceptional video recording performance for cameras with an emphasis on still photography. Both cameras can achieve high-speed still and movie shooting at 10 frames per second in full resolution with autofocus switched on. With autofocus locked, the cameras can achieve 60 frames per second shooting, which is unprecedented. Video shooting tops out in 1080p at 30 frames per second.
Normal sensitivity sits above that of a compact, with normal ISO 100 to 3,200 range, but can push up to ISO 6,400 in manual mode. Still images get their own unique set of options. Motion Snapshot mode mixes a still image with a short burst of slow-motion video to create the effect of a "living" photo with its own soundtrack.
Additional lenses will become available for the Nikon 1 J1 and V1, including a 10mm f2.8 pancake ($250), a 10-100mm f4-5.6 lens with powered zoom ($750), and a 30-110mm f3.8-5.6 telephoto. The Speedlight and GPS units both cost $150.
