Three Perspectives, One Lens, Countless Possibilities

The Tri-Elmar-M 16-18-21 f/4 ASPH. is a tool for photographers who strive to capture every perspective: whether working in narrow alleyways, capturing sweeping landscapes or precisely composing architectural lines. With a single lens, three focal lengths are available – each offering its own distinctive visual effect. Seamlessly integrated into a single high-precision optical instrument. This ultra-wide-angle zoom lens was designed for creative minds seeking flexible, intuitive framing, without sacrificing image quality.

Sunset by the sea

The Strengths of the Wide-Angle M-Lens

The Tri-Elmar-M 16-18-21 f/4 ASPH. delivers exceptional compositional flexibility while maintaining consistently high optical performance. The fixed lens speed of f/4 ensures a compact, well-balanced design, while two aspherical elements and premium specialised glass deliver outstanding imaging performance across all three focal lengths. Whether you want to capture impressive architecture, sweeping landscapes or expansive urban motifs, this lens maintains line integrity, sharpness and contrast – even under demanding lighting conditions. The mechanical switching between the three focal lengths is precise, with a distinct click-stop that facilitates intuitive composition through the viewfinder. The lens’s full creative potential is revealed particularly when paired with a digital viewfinder or an external wide-angle viewfinder.

Design of the Tri-Elmar-M 16-18-21 f/4 ASPH.

Comprising ten lenses arranged in seven groups – including two aspherical elements – the optical system delivers minimal distortion, exceptional edge sharpness and evenly balanced light distribution. A floating element compensates for the loss of sharpness at close range, ensuring consistently high imaging performance across all focusing distances. Its close focus distance is just 0.33 metres. A coded focal length switch communicates seamlessly with digital M-Cameras, automatically activating the corresponding viewfinder framelines. Crafted entirely from metal, the lens offers exceptional robustness and is built to withstand years of use in even the most demanding environments.

Cross-section of the Tri-Elmar-M 16-18-21 f/4 ASPH.

Tri-Elmar-M 21 cross section

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