We’re thrilled to hear that Old Fast Glass and Ancient Optics from L.A. have just announced the Statera primes. They are a cohesive set of FF+ anamorphic lenses that perfectly blend vintage character with modern performance, the fruits of a 3 year collaboration.
“Statera, derived from the Latin word for “balance,” embodies this concept in every aspect of its lenses.
These lenses merge vintage spherical elements with new anamorphic optics. We opted for a traditional variable front diopter focus system and chose a 1.5x anamorphic squeeze ratio to maximise resolution while maintaining a classic front-anamorphic look. We achieved excellent close focus distances without compromising FF+ coverage.
Inspired by legendary anamorphic lenses from the 1970s and 1980s like Todd AO, Cineovision, Technovision, and Nippon Scope, the Statera lenses are especially flattering in close-ups, keeping faces natural and proportionate with a focus system that minimises the “mumps” effect. They avoid extreme field curvature, allowing multiple characters to stay in focus across the frame, and offer sharp resolution to the edges.
The bokeh is always organically shaped, with no straight-line cut-offs. Towards the edges, the bokeh swirls with the perfect amount of Petzval effect. The lenses feature classic single-layer coatings that provide a beautiful organic flare, never looking overly modern or saturated.
Each lens in the set has matching focus and iris gear positions for quick lens changes. The 15-blade circular iris ensures perfectly oval bokeh even when stopped down. The focus rotation is 300 degrees and incredibly smooth.
Statera represents the culmination of our three-year journey to create the anamorphic lens that filmmakers have been asking for, combining the vintage look they desire with reliable mechanics and modern performance. Balance achieved.”
Footage of the Statera Anamorphic 50mm T2.1 on the OFG Customs 65 Camera
Footage of multiple Statera lenses on the ALEXA MINI LF – LF Open Gate 4.5K.
Statera lenses of focal lengths – 50mm T2.1, 75mm T2.1, and 100mm T2.1 are available to test/rent now at Old Fast Glass.
You can purchase Statera lens set of 6 focal lengths: 35mm, 40mm, 50mm, 75mm, 100mm, 135mm for $165,000 from Ancient Optics. For more information, reach out to Ancient Optics.
