The Cooke Speed Panchro series of lenses which we now hire has been a staple in the world of cinema for over 80 years. Originally released in the 1920s, these lenses have been used to capture some of the most iconic images in film history. Now, with the rise of digital filmmaking, there is a renewed interest in vintage lenses, and many companies are rehousing these classic optics for use with modern cameras. One such company is TLS (True Lens Services), which specializes in rehousing vintage lenses. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the TLS-rehoused Cooke S2/S3 Speed Panchro lenses.
The Cooke Speed Panchro lenses were originally designed for use with 35mm film cameras, and they were available in a range of focal lengths from 18mm to 152mm. The lenses were known for their high-quality optics, which delivered sharp, contrasty images with a beautiful, organic look. However, these lenses were not designed with modern filmmaking in mind, and they lacked some of the features that are now considered essential, such as focus gears and standardised mounts.
This is where rehousing comes in. Rehousing involves taking the original optics from a vintage lens and placing them in a new housing that is designed to work with modern cameras. This process typically involves adding focus gears, standardised mounts, and other features that make the lens easier to use on a modern set. TLS is one of the leading companies in this field, and they have developed a reputation for producing high-quality rehoused lenses.
The TLS-rehoused Cooke S2/S3 Speed Panchro lenses are available in a range of focal lengths, from 18mm to 100mm. These lenses have been rehoused using modern materials and techniques, and they feature all the necessary features for use on a modern set, such as focus gears, standardised mounts, and accurate focus scales. Additionally, TLS has made some improvements to the original design of the lenses, such as adding a new aperture mechanism that provides smooth and precise aperture control.
One of the main advantages of using vintage lenses like the Cooke Speed Panchros is their unique optical characteristics. These lenses have a distinct look that is difficult to replicate with modern optics. They produce a creamy, organic bokeh, and they have a subtle softness that can be very pleasing to the eye. Additionally, the Cooke Speed Panchros have a low contrast, which can help to reduce the harshness of digital images.
Another advantage of the TLS-rehoused Cooke S2/S3 Speed Panchro lenses is their versatility. These PL Mount lenses can be used on a wide range of cameras, from modern digital cameras to older film cameras. They are also suitable for use in a variety of shooting situations, from narrative films to music videos and commercials. And because they are rehoused, they are much easier to use on a modern set than the original lenses.
The TLS rehoused Cooke S2/S3 Speed Panchro lenses are an excellent choice for anyone looking to capture the unique look of vintage cinema. These lenses have been rehoused using modern materials and techniques, and they feature all the necessary features for use on a modern set. They produce a beautiful, organic look that is difficult to replicate with modern optics, and they are versatile enough to be used in a wide range of shooting situations. Whether you're a seasoned cinematographer or a newcomer to the world of filmmaking, these lenses are worth considering for your next shoot and can be hired from Direct Digital as a set or 7 lenses.
