The first shipments of the EOS-1D Mark II N and the Speedlite 430EX are expected to depart from Canon USA's distribution centres starting on Monday, September 19, 2005. Dealers in the U.S. should begin to see initial stock of these items later that same week, says Chuck Westfall, Director of Media & Customer Relationship at Canon USA.

The next shipment of EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lenses is also expected to be distributed to U.S. dealers starting early next week (Canon's newest L-series zoom first hit store shelves in late August 2005).

The EOS 5D, says Westfall, is on track for delivery to dealers in early October 2005.

Distribution dates may be different in other Canon marketing regions worldwide, but are likely to track fairly closely with the USA.