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In our effort to offer only the best lenses, we now have Zeiss B Speeds rehoused by both TLS and GL Optics, both with their trademark original rounded-triangular iris. We have believed in these lenses for many years, and we were thrilled when TLS and then GL announced they were rehousing them. The new housings matching gear positions, extended focus rotation, and internal focus, making them follow focus and matte box friendly. Also, the 50mm and 85mm have improved close focus.

This is the first and oldest generation of the now legendary Zeiss “Super Speed" lenses, commonly referred to as “B-Speeds.” Introduced in the 1970s the original housings had ARRI Bayonet Mounts. They share a lot of DNA with the later versions of Super Speeds. Their incredible optics are made of “rare earth element glass,” (which lens manufacturers are no longer allowed to use). Our sets have their original coatings, and arguably most important their original iris design.

The thing that sets B-Speeds apart from nearly any other lens ever made is their unique 9-blade iris that results in an aperture that has the shape of a triangle with rounded sides. This iris design not only gives the lenses a more gentle focus roll off, but it also produces one of the most striking bokeh effects of any other lens. Shoot them wide open out-of-focus pinpoint light sources are rendered as round orbs. However stop down to T2, and the circular orbs turn into rounded triangles. B-Speeds give you multiple looks within the same set, and the ability to make your project stand out.

Breathing is minimal. Flares are very nice thanks to the vintage coatings. Shooting wide open results in a beautiful flattering look with a slight glow to highlights. Stop down and the look is sharper and has more contrast.

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