Venus Optics has introduced a new series of high-speed T1 cinema lenses under the Laowa brand, called the Argus series.
The lineup includes eight lenses: three designed for full-frame cameras, three for Super35, and two for Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras. Each lens in the series features 0.8mod gears on the focus and aperture rings, and an external diameter of 80mm. The lenses are available in various mounts, including Sony E, FUJIFILM X, Nikon Z, Canon RF, and MFT.
Previous Releases and New Additions
Just two months after revealing three compact Super35 zoom lenses at NAB 2024—the Laowa Ranger 11-18mm, 17-50mm, and 50-130mm, all with a maximum T2.9 aperture—Venus Optics has expanded its product line with the eight new prime lenses in the Argus T1 series.
Features of the Argus T1 Cine Series
Venus Optics claims that the Laowa Argus T1 Cine series is the first in the world to offer a T1 aperture in a full-frame cine lens with wider focal lengths of 28mm and 35mm. Although ZY Optics previously released a Mitakon full-frame 50mm T1 lens, they have not yet provided wider options in their lineup.
The Argus T1 series includes the following lenses:
- Full-frame: 28mm, 35mm, and 45mm. Available in Canon RF, Sony E, and Nikon Z mounts.
- Super35: 18mm, 25mm, and 33mm. Available in Canon RF, Sony E, Nikon Z, and FUJIFILM X mounts.
- MFT: 18mm and 25mm.
According to Laowa, these lenses ensure consistent color rendition and performance across the series, offering low chromatic aberration while maintaining contrast and sharpness even at maximum aperture. The lens housings are made entirely of metal, featuring 0.8mod gears on the aperture and focus rings, and a significant focus throw ranging from 210 to 270 degrees. Additionally, each lens has a 77mm filter thread and an 80mm front diameter for compatibility with matte boxes.
Pricing and Availability
The Laowa Argus T1 Cine full-frame lenses are priced at $1,499/€1,527 per lens, with a three-lens set available for $3,999/€4,081. The Super35 lenses are priced at $899/€916 each, or $2,399/€2,444 for a three-lens set. The MFT versions are available for $699/€708 per lens, with a bundle of two lenses priced at $1,259/€1,280.
About Laowa
Laowa, established in 2013 by Venus Optics, is a Chinese lens manufacturer headquartered in Hefei, Anhui Province. The company was founded by a team of experienced optical designers with backgrounds in Japanese and German lens manufacturing. Laowa focuses on creating premium, unique, and affordable photographic lenses, often specializing in ultra-wide-angle and macro lenses.
News source: https://laowacine.com/
