73,000 days, that’s how long Canon says its printer prints will last without fading β but only for its large format printers and no one will be alive in 200 years to verify this
Canon has unveiled a new range of imagePROGRAF PRO large format printers aimed at the professional photography and fine art markets. This refresh includes three new models: the 60-inch PRO-6600, the 44-inch PRO-4600 and the 24-inch PRO-2600.
In addition to the new models, Canon has introduced a new pigment ink set, LUCIA PRO II, which the company says improves overall print quality, especially when it comes to darker tones and black density on fine art paper.
LUCIA PRO II ink also provides improved scratch resistance on photographic paper, simplifying handling, mounting and finishing processes. A fade-resistant pigment in the ink set significantly increases color fastness, which Canon says means prints will not fade when exposed to light.
Prints that don’t fade
The back of this, Canon says prints from its new printers will last up to 73,000 days β 200 years! – without fading.
There are some caveats to the claim (which no one can prove one way or the other, by the way) and that is that Canon assumes you’re using its own Canon Photo Paper Pro Platinum – dare use any other paper and all bets are off. The fine print also states that the prediction is βcalculated in accordance with the indoor lightfastness test method and the longevity evaluation criteria of the preservation of digital color photographic images.β In other words: if future generations invent a new form of lighting, the lifespan of the prints will be lost.
The new imagePROGRAF PRO series is touted as easy to use and offering higher productivity. The dual roll feature allows users to switch between different media types and formats without interrupting the workflow.
Mathew Faulkner, EMEA Director, Marketing and Innovation, Wide Format Printing Group, Canon Europe, said: βThe new imagePROGRAF PRO range takes the roaring success of our current range and makes it even better, with new design and performance features added like response to feedback from our customers. We have raised the bar for print quality and significantly increased image robustness in terms of light and abrasion resistance, which is crucial for fine art printers and professional photographers.β
If you’re looking for a printer that can produce prints that will outlast you, your children and your grandchildren, Canon’s new imagePROGRAF PRO range could be just what you’re looking for.
The new imagePROGRAF PRO series will be available from March 2024.