When Zeiss announced its return after a long hiatus, it sparked celebrations within the community. One of the reasons is that its lenses continue to be cherished by photographers from all around the world. The comeback was marked by the Otus series, one of the highest-end optics available. It now appears the company is launching a third lens, the 35mm f1.4 ML, and the images say a lot.
First reported by Nikon Rumors, the Otus 35mm f1.4 looks a lot like the original 50mm and 85mm lenses that were launched last year.
The markings and the material look the same as the other two, but the biggest difference here is the flowershaped hood. We can’t comment on the size, because we don’t have the details. However, Nikon Rumors has released some of its features that one can expect from the Otus 35mm.
- Available for Sony E, Canon RF, and Nikon Z mounts
- Features an apochromatic optical design for reduced chromatic aberrations and distortion
- Edge-to-edge sharpness, even at f1.4
- Claims of “rich micro-contrast, accurate color rendering, and smooth, harmonious bokeh”
- Manual focus, despite users wanting an autofocus lens
- Full metal construction, engravings, and a depth-of-field scale
- More compact and lightweight than the original Otus lenses
- Targeting creative photographers who like mechanical lenses, “offering a premium manual-focus alternative in an autofocus-dominated market”
- Price: $2,299
- Available from spring 2026
The Otus lineup was initially designed for DSLRs, but the company is now moving towards catering to mirrorless cameras. However, despite the years that have passed, the Otus series could have been autofocus, given how many people still crave for it. The 35mm is an ideal option for street photography and environmental portraits, but this also means that people who want autofocus for fast-paced shooting will have to rely on other lenses.
If you are curious how the 50mm and 85mm Otus performed, then do keep an eye out for reviews, which will be uploaded soon. Until then, we have to wait and see what the 35mm has in store upon its launch.