Designed for full frame (24x36mm) sensors and film stocks, the glass will cover larger sensors like RED's Dragon 8K VistaVision, Sony A7 series, and of course the Leica SL. Smaller sensors like Super35 and S35+ will also benefit from using more of the lens's sweet spot.
Five different focal lengths complete the family, ranging from 21mm to 50mm with an f/1.4 aperture. The Leica M 0.8 lenses aim to bring the iconic look and character of Leica's M glass using a smooth iris rotation and larger 0.8 module / 32 pitch gear rings for focus and iris. This allows operators to work with traditional cine accessories like manual focus.
They're light, too, weighing only 0.7 lbs. (320g) to 1.5 lbs. (700g) making them a solid consideration for drones and gimbal work. Their short length 2.3" (5.8cm) to 3" (7.7cm) also lends them to operating in tight spaces. The company is saying they will be built, assembled and calibrated on the Leica M line so you'll be receiving a high level of craftsmanship.
The M 0.8 lenses will retain the existing Leica M mount so they can maintain their compact size. Keep in mind RED’s DSMC2 design allows the use of the Leica M mount on their cameras with interchangeable mounts, including Scarlet, Epic, Weapon 6K, Weapon 8K VV and Helium 8K. A modified OLPF will be required for RED cameras and will be available directly from CW. Adapters are widely available for Sony E and FZ mount cameras from the Sony A7 series up to the F55.
The new Leica M 0.8 will be available as a set or individually early 2017. Current estimated prices per lens range from $5,900 for the 35mm to $13,500 for the 50mm f/0.95 Noctilux.
Lenses Available
- 21mm f/1.4
- 24mm f/1.4
- 28mm f/1.4
- 35mm f/1.4
- 50mm f/0.95 Noctilux
Be sure to check out more of our IBC 2016 coverage.
Source: CW Sonderoptic
