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Nikon 1 AW1 is first lens-swapping all weather camera

Braving all that the elements can throw at it, the Nikon 1 AW1 is the first waterproof and toughened interchangeable-lens camera.

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Richard Trenholm Former Movie and TV Senior Editor
Richard Trenholm was CNET's film and TV editor, covering the big screen, small screen and streaming. A member of the Film Critic's Circle, he's covered technology and culture from London's tech scene to Europe's refugee camps to the Sundance film festival.
Expertise Films, TV, Movies, Television, Technology
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Richard Trenholm

Behold the Nikon 1 AW1: braving all that the elements can throw at it, the rowdy AW1 is the first waterproof, all-action, super-toughened interchangeable lens camera.

The lens-swapping AW1 -- I like to think it stands for All Weather -- can go swimming down to 15m, survive a plunge to the floor from heights of up to 2m, and stay chilled to temperatures of -10 degrees C.

As well as being waterproof, shockproof and freeze-proof, the new Nikon is rubber-sealed and dustproof to stop sand, grit, or a particularly untidy flat from ruining your camera.

An O-ring protects the lens mount, so water and general crud can't sneak in there.

Inside the well 'ard shell is a 14.2-megapixel CX-format CMOS sensor. Based on the Nikon 1 system of interchangeable-lens system cameras, the AW1 shoots bursts at speeds of up to 60 frames per second, and can fire off 15fps while autofocusing.

The AW1 launches today with a pair of new water, shock and freeze-proof Nikkor AW lenses. With an 11-27.5mm f/3.5–5.6 lens the AW1 costs £750, and with a 10mm lens as well, the AW1 will set you back £950.

In spring next year a special underwater flash will also take the plunge.

Should all gadgets be waterproof? Which interchangeable-lens system makes the biggest splash? Tell me your favourites in the comments or on our fully waterproofed Facebook wall.