Primo® Anamorphic Prime Lenses

The Primo anamorphic prime lenses were developed to transfer the superior imaging characteristics of the Primo spherical prime lenses to the anamorphic format.  The Primo lenses were matched to a modified version of the E series cylindrical lens layout.  As with the Primo spherical primes, the Primo anamorphic primes offer high contrast and resolution, even field illumination, and negligible veiling glare, ghosting and distortion.  With their consistent color balancing between focal lengths they intercut seamlessly with other lenses in the Primo anamorphic line.  One of the key characteristics of the Primo anamorphic lenses is their ability to reproduce the frequently desirable blue anamorphic flare without introducing unwanted veiling glare. 

There are two distinct series of the Primo anamorphic lenses which are easily identified by their close focus limitations.  The earliest set or “Regular” anamorphic primes are the non-close focus lenses which do not have a defined close focus standard.  They are available in a 35mm, 40mm, 50mm, 75mm and 100mm.  All have a maximum aperture of T2 and close focusing distances ranging from 2 feet 6 inches to 4 feet 6 inches depending on which lens you are using. 

The close focusing Primo anamorphic lenses are available in a 35mm, 40mm, 50mm, 75mm and 100mm.  All have a maximum aperture of T2 and close focusing distances ranging from 2 feet 6 inches to 2 feet 9 inches depending on which lens you are using. 

Both series of Primo Anamorphic lenses are treated with multi-layer coatings and are equipped with linear irises.  The Primo anamorphic lenses are larger and heavier than any other series of Panavision anamorphic lenses and are generally not used as a handheld or Steadicam type lens.  They are more frequently used as an "A" lens for use on dollies and/or traditional studio set ups. The Primo anamorphic lenses cut in well with the other Panavision anamorphic lenses and provide another useful tool for the cinematographer looking to shoot in the anamorphic format.