The skill to combine technique and efficiency

There are close to 200 types of optical glass that are used in interchangeable lenses. For super-telephoto lenses, however, a newly developed type of optical glass is typically used. This is because of the stringent requirements that the super-telephoto lens must meet. The newly developed optical glass boasts outstanding optical performance. On the other hand, the adoption of this glass has necessitated the establishment of new methods for processes such as grinding and polishing.

"Each different type of optical glass has its own characteristics and thus requires a polishing method that suits it. It is sometimes difficult to polish this newly developed type of optical glass because its characteristics are unknown. At such times, the operator must draw on his past experience and use trial and error to come up with the most appropriate polishing method—that is, the method that involves the least processing time and effort. In other words, the operator must always keep the notion of efficiency in mind."

Mr. Honda does not accept the idea that manufacturing good products takes time. Instead, he emphasizes the need to reconcile a high level of product quality with efficient production. It is Mr. Honda's efforts that have underpinned the reliability and value for money of NIKKOR lenses, which continue to be a popular choice worldwide.