Vintage Nikon AI-S lenses for large format
We are proud to have one of the first vintage Nikon AI-S lenses rehoused for large format, available for hire at Pixipixel.
This set of vintage lenses from the 1980s deliver amazing performance without sacrificing character. The Nikon AI-S are some of the most flattering lenses you will ever shoot with. They are sharp, but with less micro contrast than most primes, which works so well when it comes to skin tones. Highlights tend to have a slight glow, and the faster lenses can deliver unique blooming effects and aberrations when shot wide-open.
Zero Optik Nikon AI-S set of rehoused lenses covering large format
Rehoused by Zero Optik
Our Nikons AI-S were beautifully rehoused by Zero Optik with PL mounts, matching 95mm fronts, matching focus and iris gear positions, 300-degree focus throw, correct focus direction for cinematography and in some focal lengths, improved close focus.
The Los Angeles-based firm customised the Nikons for cinematography using aerospace-grade materials and processes to make improvements but only where it was needed and made sense. The original designs were 7 and 9 straight blade irises, which made bokeh distracting. Zero Optik replaced them with 14 blade irises that leave bokeh smooth, soft and never distracting regardless of what stop you are shooting at.
The Zero Optik Nikon AI-S 58mm f/1.3
The Crown Jewel: 58mm f/1.2 Noct-Nikkor
Let’s take a look at this legendary lens in more detail. Known as the crown jewel of Nikon’s AI-S line, the 58mm f/1.2 Noct-Nikkor was made in limited quantities. In fact, it’s one of the rarest vintage lenses out there.
It’s fast, sharp and offering unbeaten performance when shot wide-open. The aspheric front element does an excellent job of preventing aberrations that plague other high-speed lenses. It has improved close focus at approximately 1’, and a cam-driven focus system that is extremely smooth.
Technical specifications:
Focal Length: 58mm
Max Aperture: T1.3
Lens Mount: Arri PL
Front Diameter: 95mm
Close Focus: 13"
Body Length (w/o Caps):
Body: 6061 Anodized Aluminum w/ 316 Stainless Steel Mount
Plus, you might want to know that the Zero Optik’s rehoused “Noct” was among the lenses of choice of Joker cinematographer Lawrence Sher ASC.
Large Format Cameras
The rehoused Nikon AI-S lenses easily cover large format camera including the Sony Venice, ARRI Mini LF and RED Monstro, and you might be surprised that quite a few cover the Alexa 65 sensor too.
Availability
Pixipixel’s Zero Optik Nikon AI-S set contains eight focal lengths: 20mm, 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, 58mm, 85mm, 105mm, and 135mm. And, we also have the 18mm and 105mm macro lenses.
When you shoot with Nikon AI-S lenses, you will see these can make the look and feel inherently different and distinguished with flattering effects. Are these vintage lenses the solution for your next project?
To be among the first to try out these re-engineered classics, contact us at office@pixipixel.com.