This long time favorite Nikkor zoom of many Nikon photographers was given a new leash of life in 1992 where Nikon has integrated an encoding microchip within the lens to enable the lens be used with a series exciting series of a new generation Nikon SLR cameras that deployed with 3D Matrix Metering System as well as a very much improved autofocusing system (such as the Nikon F5, F100, F70 and even be used by the older Nikon F90(X) series models etc.). The distance chip inside the D-spec zoom lens permits transmission of focusing information from the lens to camera to enhance the accuracy for both the exposure and flash metering systems. Cameras with advanced 3D Matrix Metering* system requires an AF-D lens in order for the camera to take full advantage on some of these technologies deployed in these series of Nikon SLR camera models. For cameras such as the older Nikon F4 or F801(S)/N8008 etc. this Nikkor zoom lens update will also be retaining respective function for ambient and flash metering and/or exposure control. For an example, 3D or RGB Matrix Metering metering will not be offered in a Nikon F4 but it will still retaining all the key metering system, even extends to flash photography such as Matrix Fill Flash control.

This 35-70mm f/2.8 is much smaller and lighter than any of the AFS lenses and has less distortion, too. It weighs more than you might think looking at its small size; it's made mostly of metal and is loaded with lots of professional glass, but still light enough to make the difference between being carryable and being a pain in the neck. For me, the AFS lenses are only for use in a fixed location, not for carrying all day.

This 35-70mm lens was so good that Nikon continued to make it even after the 28-70mm f/2.8 AF-S was introduced in 1999. Even though amateurs are impressed by the huge 28-70mm f/2.8 AF-S and today's even bigger 24-70mm f/2.8 AFS, pros still demanded this smaller, tougher lens.