The Sony DT 16-80mm (SAL-1680Z) is the first zoom lens for the Alpha DSLR system designed by highly respected optical company Carl Zeiss. It offers a general-purpose 16-80mm range, equivalent to 24-120mm when mounted on an Alpha DSLR, delivering decent wide angle to telephoto capabilities. It is designed for use with cropped-frame bodies like the A100, and is not corrected for full-frame.

The Sony DT 16-80mm lens was announced at the same time as the DSLR-A100 body itself, and was an undoubted highlight of the system’s launch. Most of the first Alpha lenses were rebadged versions of existing Konica Minolta models, but here was a brand new zoom for the system which promised a quality general-purpose option for discerning photographers. Sony also announced two further fixed focal length lenses from Carl Zeiss at the Alpha launch.

Unfortunately none of the Zeiss lenses were actually ready for sale at the A100’s Summer 2006 launch and a few months later the release date of the DT 16-80mm had been delayed even further. This was a big disappointment for those who believed until the brand new lenses (and bodies) arrived, the Alpha system was little more than a rebadged project. Thankfully any issues concerning the delay have now been resolved and the DT 16-80mm finally went on sale in Spring 2007.

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