About two kilos (4.4 lbs), outstanding optical quality, long focus rotation angle, high quality materials – these properties characterize the newest cine lens for the Super 35 format from ZEISS: the ZEISS Lightweight Zoom LWZ.3 21-100mm/T2.9-3.9 T* (ZEISS LWZ.3). The new cine zoom is well-suited for sophisticated film shoots for many different application scenarios – from sports to music to documentary. The lens is compatible with all common film cameras like ARRI Amira, RED Raven or Sony FS7, and will be available starting January 2017.
The ZEISS LWZ.3 covers a large focal length range from 21 to 100 millimeters. Reflections are efficiently reduced through the well-known ZEISS T*® anti reflective coating.
One lens instead of six
The ZEISS LWZ.3 especially draws on its strengths when only small budgets are available on set: “With a focal length of 21 to 100 millimeters, the new ZEISS LWZ.3 covers a range for which cameramen had to use up to six fixed focal lengths until now. This flexibility delivers a clear price and time advantage as it is no longer necessary to change focal lengths,” said Christophe Casenave, product manager from ZEISS Camera Lenses, summarizing the benefits.
The LWZ.3 features the Interchangeable Mount System (IMS) known from other ZEISS cine lenses. This allows for changing the mount in only a few minutes. Five options are available: PL, EF, F, E, MFT.
Long-term investment
“Because of its modern optical design in a compact and high-quality housing, the ZEISS LWZ.3 is a long-term investment, especially for smaller productions,” added Casenave. The ZEISS LWZ.3 also features the well-known exchangeable mount – the so-called Interchangeable Mount System – with five different mounts (PL, EF, F, E, MFT) for all current camera systems as well as ergonomics, which allow high-quality films to be shot even in difficult situations: The LWZ.3 also shines when for instance high time pressure occurs or cramped space conditions on the set make the lens change difficult.
“The bokeh, highlights and contrast offer a look that you could otherwise only get with more expensive cine lenses.” Christophe Casenave, Product Manager, ZEISS Camera Lenses”
Calibrated scales, consistent imaging quality across the entire image field, no vignetting and focus shift, the efficient reduction of reflections through the well-known ZEISS T*® anti reflective coating and the color matching with lenses of the Compact Prime CP.2 family complete the overall package.
Price and availability
The ZEISS LWZ.3 will be available from the end of January 2017 at a retail sales price of EUR 9,900 (incl. 19 % VAT), or USD 9,900 (excl. VAT).
Technical data
Focal length 21-100mm
Aperture range 2.9 – 22
Lens elements/groups 22 elements/ 18 groups
Close focus 0,8m/ 2’8”
Focus ring rotation angle (inf-MOD) 294°
Zoom rotation angle 100°
Aperture rotation angle 48°
Front diameter 114mm/ 4.49”
Length 226mm/ 8.9”
Weight 2.0kg/ 4.4 lbs
Aperture blades 11
Sensor coverage ANSI Super 35mm
Horizontal field of view Super 35: 61-14°
Normal 35: 55-12°
APS-C: 56-13°
MFT: 45-9°
For more: ZEISS