Last Updated on 12/19/2016 by Chris Gampat
PhotoRumors is reporting Mikaton is ready to begin shipping its Speedmaster 135mm f/1.4 Lens. Announced back in October 2015 at PhotoPlus, the lens caused quite a stir with its fast f/1.4 max aperture and gargantuan size. Compatible with full-frame cameras from Canon, Nikon, and Sony, the lens is manual focus only and will be sold initially in limited quantities.
The Mikaton Speedmaster 135mm f/1.4 Lens utilizes a floating optical design, which Mikaton claims will allow for high quality images at both close and far away distances. Weighing 6lbs., the lens’ weight seems to reflect its massive size. Seeing it mounted on a Sony a7R shows just how much the lens can dwarf a smaller camera body. Optically, it features 11 elements in 5 groups with 3 large ED elements. It has an aperture ring for full f-stop control and the ring is clickless – making it a potential option for video enthusiasts who need quiet equipment when recording audio. Mikaton has priced the Speedmaster 135mm f/1.4 at $2,999 and it will be sold in less than 100 units.
As a portrait photographer, I love the 135mm focal length. It’s great if you have the space for it. The Canon 135mm f/2L has been the king at this focal length in my eyes, but there are other 135mm lenses by several other manufacturers, giving photographers plenty of options. However, none of them are as fast as the Mikaton’s f/1.4 aperture. Given the weight of the lens and the stability required to shoot at such a shallow depth of field and retain sharpness, I’m eager to see if it will be able to deliver and meet expectations. And at such a price point, will the extra stop be enough to sway photographers to making it a permanent part of their kit? There are a lot of questions surrounding this lens and I’m hoping it will bring something truly unique to the 135mm range of lenses.
To get more information on the Mikaton Speedmaster 135mm f/1.4, check out PhotoRumors coverage of it here.