With more and more high end productions looking to shoot on cameras such as the Arri Alexa 65 and the RED WEAPON 8K VistaVision, the demand for large-format optics that cover those sensors is also increasing. In response to this increasing demand, Leica have today unveiled the Thalia series of prime lenses. The set of nine spherical lenses provide an image circle of 60mm diagonal, which covers ARRI Alexa 65, VistaVision and Super 35 film and digital formats while maintaining a consistent look and feel through all focal lengths.

The focal lengths of the lenses are 24, 30, 35, 45, 55, 70, 100, 120, and 180mm. The lenses are available in PL mount and offer /i technology metadata contacts in the mount. The lenses maintain a 95mm front diameter and matched focus and iris ring locations for consistent accessory use. For large format lenses they are also compact and lightweight, with lengths between 4.9”-6.9” (124.5-175cm) and weighing between 2.4-3.75lbs (1.06-1.6kg).

The Thalia lenses do not share identical T stops and the speed on the lenses varies from T2.2 to T3.6 depending on which focal length you choose.

One of the most unique features of the Leica Thalia lenses is their iris design, which the company claims can keep a circular shape through the entire aperture range. In addition to being round, the bokeh is said to be smooth, distinct and full of character, which helps the out of focus elements maintain structure and shape without falling apart.

While the Leica Thalia lenses are not technically vintage lenses, they are claimed to have many of the image characteristics that have driven cinematographers to pair older lenses with digital sensors. They are clear without being overly sharp and focus is smooth and forgiving without looking soft. Skin tones are said to be natural and smooth with accurate colour rendition.

Although the lenses are based on the Leica S medium format lenses, they feature significant optical and mechanical changes, including: increased image circle, new coatings, new iris design, 270° rotation cam focus mechanism, and entirely new mechanics and housings. Additionally, the 55mm lens is a completely new lens.

The Leica Thalia lenses will be on display at the CW Sonderoptic booth at NAB and are scheduled to start shipping in Summer 2017. For more information visit www.cw-sonderoptic.com/leica-thalia/ or contact [email protected]

There is no indication about pricing, but if you have to ask then you probably can’t afford them anyway.