Blazar Apex 35mm T1.8 1.33x Anamorphic AF lens (E-Mount)

BLAZAR APEX 1.33x Autofocus Anamorphic Lens – 35mm T1.8 (E-Mount)

The BLAZAR APEX 35mm T1.8 1.33x Autofocus Anamorphic Lens introduces an innovative feature to the anamorphic lens market—autofocus. This lens is designed to make anamorphic filmmaking more accessible and user-friendly. It's available for Canon RF, Sony E, Nikon Z, and FUJIFILM X mounts, with an L Mount version also planned for future release.

BLAZAR, known for pushing boundaries in lens design, has added a new dimension to their lineup with the APEX series. These lenses are among the first on the market to offer autofocus in an anamorphic format, a feature that has traditionally been challenging to implement due to the unique characteristics of anamorphic lenses.

Autofocus in Anamorphic Lenses

Autofocusing an anamorphic lens is complex due to the optical distortions these lenses create. The BLAZAR APEX 35mm T1.8 addresses this with a fly-by-wire autofocus system, allowing for smooth transitions between subjects while maintaining the classic anamorphic look.

BLAZAR APEX 35mm T1.8 1.33x Autofocus Anamorphic Lens

The lens features a cine-style build, including a geared focus ring with distance markings. In AF mode, the focus will follow the subject without moving the ring, while in MF mode, it returns to the mark set on the ring. This design provides flexibility for filmmakers who want to switch between manual and automatic focus.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus function is designed to track faces and subjects effectively, even when using the 1.33x de-squeeze function. As this lens is still a pre-production unit, further optimizations and compatibility improvements may be expected upon release.

Design and Build Quality

Constructed with a durable metal body, the BLAZAR APEX 35mm T1.8 combines functionality with a sleek design. The lens includes a black focus ring, a distinctive orange rear housing for the iris ring, and full electronic connections. It also features a USB-C port for firmware updates and potential future enhancements.

Who Is This Lens For?

This lens is ideal for filmmakers and videographers who want to achieve the classic anamorphic aesthetic without the complexity of manual focusing. Its compact size, anticipated affordability, and autofocus capabilities make it a suitable option for a wide range of users, from professionals to enthusiasts looking to enhance their creative toolkit.

Price and Availability

While the exact pricing has yet to be confirmed, the BLAZAR APEX 35mm T1.8 is expected to be competitively priced around $1,000. Shipping is anticipated to start around the holiday season, offering a new, user-friendly option for those interested in anamorphic filmmaking.

The BLAZAR APEX 35mm T1.8 Autofocus Anamorphic Lens marks a significant step in making anamorphic filming more accessible. Its autofocus feature combined with a sleek design offers a unique tool for capturing cinematic visuals with ease.