STATERA
BALANCE ACHIEVED
STATERA comes from the Latin word meaning “balance,” and balance is integrated into every aspect of these lenses. The Statera primes are the result of a 3-year collaboration with Old Fast Glass. Our goal was to create a cohesive set of anamorphic FF+ lenses with the perfect balance of vintage character and modern performance.
First, we needed to find the best vintage spherical “taking” lenses with the right optical traits. After testing hundreds of lenses from the 1950’s to the 1980’s, we narrowed it down to the best of the best. The taking lenses we ultimately chose will remain a secret, but we are confident there is no better glass for this lens project.
Next step was to design a modern anamorphic assembly to pair with our vintage taking glass. We opted for a traditional variable front diopter focus system. A 1.5x anamorphic squeeze ratio was selected to maximize resolution, but still deliver a classic front-anamorphic look. We were able to get the minimum close focus distance down to 18” on the 75mm while maintaining FF+ coverage.
What do Statera Anamorphic images look like? These lenses are inspired by the most legendary anamorphic lenses from the 1970s and 1980s – Todd AO, Cineovison, Technovision, and Nippon Scope. With their vintage lens DNA, Statera lenses are very flattering on your subject, especially on close-ups. Our focus system minimizes “mumps”, so human faces remain natural and proportionate. They do not suffer from extreme field curvature, so you can easily keep multiple characters in focus across your frame. They also resolve really well all the way to the edges. With Statera you don’t have to compromise your shot.
Bokeh is always perfectly oval, and you will never see bokeh get “cut off” by any straight lines. Towards the edges, bokeh starts to swirl, with a perfect amount of Petzval effect. Coatings are classic single-layer coatings that deliver a gorgeous organic flare character that never feels modern or over saturated.
Our partners at GL Optics developed a sleek and classic housing for the Statera project. They are all compatible with 4x5.65 matte boxes and filters, as well as 138mm diopters. Every lens in the set has matching focus and iris gear positions for fast lens changes. A 15 blade circular iris was selected, which is crucial to maintain perfectly oval bokeh even when stopped down. Focus rotation is 300 degrees and smooth as silk. The lenses have an elegant silver anodized finish, all black engravings, and rugged stainless steel PL mounts. Internally the lenses are robust and reliable, requiring very little maintenance. And when it is time for service or repairs, they were designed to be easy to work on.
Statera is the result of our 3 year journey to create the anamorphic lens people have been asking for, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. Finally, cinematographers can have the vintage look they want with reliable mechanics and modern performance. Balance achieved.
