Nikon unveils water proof AW1 camera

Nikon has unveiled what it claims is the world's first camera with waterproof and shockproof interchangeable lens, Nikon 1 AW1. The AW1 is waterproof to depths of 15m, shockproof from heights of 2m and freezeproofto temperatures as low as -10°C.

With AW1, Nikon brings a mirrorless, interchangeable lens camera that allows users to continue taking photographs even underwater. While shooting underwater, the camera has a custom white balance setting to cater to the conditions underwater and it also features a few special modes like scuba and close-up. While we gush over its physical toughness with the stainless steel body, Nikon AW1 comes with in-built GPS for automatic geotagging of your photos and videos. The model also has a built-in WiFi to connect to readily available internet anywhere.
The AW1 has a CX-format sensor and has an ISO that tops at 6400 along with an HD video capture. The camera also has an altimeter, depth gauge, compass and an accelerometer-powered option for switching modes with one hand. There are also options of pop up flash with the camera to clearer pictures in darker areas under the water. The camera can capture still images at 15 FPS and can go all the way to 60 FPS when the autofocus is locked.

Though the camera technically works with any Nikon 1 series lens, the company has warned that any NIKKOR 1 lens that is not all-weather should not be used under water. This means to use the camera under water, users need to use the two new NIKKOR all weather (AW) lenses 1 NIKKOR AW 11-27.5mm f/3.5 - 5.6 and a 1 NIKKOR AW 10mm f/2.8 lens.

However, the company has warned that any any NIKKOR 1 lens that is not the all-weather sealed type should not be used below water.

The camera comes in the colour options of black, white and silver.

Nikon 1 AW1 with an 11-27.5mm lens will be available in October for $799.95. A second set scheduled to arrive at a later date in a 10mm lens will be sold for $999.95.