The New Noxlux DG 50mm f/1.2 Lens

credits: Mr. Ding

After a long stretch of rumors, Chinese lensmaker Mr. Ding has officially launched its latest lens: the Noxlux DG 50mm f/1.2 for Nikon Z mount. Known for its Leica M-mount glass, like the 35mm f/1.8 and 50mm f/1.1, Mr. Ding is now stepping into the Nikon mirrorless space with a third-generation manual 50mm that blends vintage styling with some modern upgrades. This version includes electronic contacts, which means you’ll get access to Nikon’s focus assist tools, making it much easier to nail critical focus at f/1.2. They’ve also shortened the minimum focus distance from 0.7 meters to 0.45 meters, so you can get a bit closer to your subject than with previous versions.

The lens is built with eight elements in six groups, including four lanthanide glass elements for better clarity and character. The optical coating’s been improved to help reduce flare and ghosting, especially in backlit scene, something vintage-style lenses can struggle with. At 470 grams, it’s not heavy, and its chrome-plated black finish is clearly meant to pair beautifully with Nikon’s retro-styled Zf camera. It also takes 52mm filters and has a compact footprint overall.

Pricing for the Noxlux DG 50mm f/1.2 sits at $439. Sure, you won’t get autofocus or the clinical sharpness of Nikon’s $2,000 Z 50mm f/1.2 S, but that’s kind of the point. It’s about character and manual control. There are also other manual f/1.2 options out there, like the Nocty-Nonikkor for $550 or Meike’s for $250.

You can see full details on Mr. Ding’s website here