LIGHT LENS LAB announced its newest interchangeable lens, the “M 50mm f/1.5 Z21 Piano Black.”
The “LIGHT LENS LAB 50mm f/1.5 Z21” is a special model that reconstructs the famous French lens “Angenieux 50mm F1.5 Type S21” using modern optical technology and new materials. The “Z” in Z21 comes from the initials of the designer, Mr. Zhou, and is said to represent the desire to inherit the spirit of the developers who worked on the original S21.
This lens has been newly redesigned to pursue the distinctive appearance of the “S21” while inheriting the classic double-Gauss configuration. The soft and solid depiction is reminiscent of those famous lenses of the past. In addition, rather than simply pursuing resolution, the lens focused on the essential values of photographic expression, such as “bokeh” and “beauty of aberration.”
While other companies eliminate aberrations, this lens deliberately leaves aberrations, and depicts a “poetic light” that cannot be described by numbers alone; it was made possible through a deep optical understanding and a bold artistic challenge.
Classical looks and feel. Luxurious “Piano Black” finish
While the lens exterior emphasizes a classical atmosphere, the company paid particular attention to the feel of the precise helicoid and aperture ring. This lens combines the traditional style of the “S21” with modern ease of use.
In addition, the model comes in a glossy “piano black” finish, which requires advanced manufacturing techniques, and its sleek, luxurious appearance will further enhance the joy and satisfaction of owning it. The piano black version is a rare model limited to 600 pieces worldwide.
A fusion of original style and modern performance
Using professional measuring equipment, the correction values were thoroughly analyzed to faithfully reproduce the original depiction tendencies obtained from historical documents and sample images. Meanwhile, in the central 30% of the screen from the center to the periphery, optical performance is said to be approximately 10% better than the original.
High image quality achieved through new materials and a new design
The latest optical glass is used on the entire surface, and the coating is also optimized with modern technology. It provides images that take advantage of the unique soft tones and bokeh of the “S21” while improving sharpness and contrast. The amount of peripheral light has also been slightly improved compared to the original, allowing for more natural peripheral images.
Large image circle
The image circle is designed to be slightly larger than the original, so even with a 44 x 33 mm format image sensor, you can use it at close to medium distances without worrying about vignetting.
Lens construction: 4 groups, 6 elements
LIGHT LENS LAB M 50mm f/1.5 Z21 Piano Black Shooting Example
LIGHT LENS LAB M 50mm f/1.5 Z21 Piano Black Specifications
| Lens construction | 4 groups 6 elements |
| Compatible Mounts | Leica M |
| Supported image size | 35mm full size *When mounted on a 44 x 33mm format camera, vignetting may occur only when shooting at infinity. |
| focal length | 50mm |
| Lens construction | 4 groups, 6 elements (double Gauss type) |
| focus | MF (Manual Focus) *Range meter-linked |
| Aperture | F1.5-F22 |
| Aperture blades | 10 sheets |
| Minimum focusing distance | 0.7m |
| Filter Diameter | 52mm (E52) |
| size | Approx. Φ61 x 64.3mm (excluding mount and protrusions) |
| mass | Approximately 313g |
| accessories | Front and rear caps, lens case |
| others | Lens hood integrated into lens |
