Zeiss Super Speeds MKI (B Speeds)

Collection of six vintage cinema lenses with focus and aperture rings on white background.
FOCAL LENGTH APERATURE CLOSE FOCUS FRONT DIAMETER WEIGHT (lbs)
18mmT1.410"80mm2.3
25mmT1.410"80mm1.3
35mmT1.414"80mm1.43
50mmT1.42'4"80mm1.1
85mmT1.43'80mm1.43

   TECHNICAL DATA   

   OVERVIEW   

RAW, VINTAGE CHARM

B-Speeds represent the earliest generation of Super Speeds, carrying with them a raw, vintage charm and distinctive flaring tendencies. While optically less corrected than later Super Speeds, this lack of perfection imbues them with personality.

Person sitting in a car at night with city lights reflecting on the window.

PRESENCE IN THE BUSINESS

Their presence can be felt in many iconic arthouse and European films of the ’70s and ’80s, favored by cinematographers who needed that extra stop of light but didn’t mind trading a bit of control for the more expressive, textured images these lenses produce. B-Speeds appeal to DPs who intentionally seek a less clinical look—lenses that whisper of celluloid and historical craft. The lenses are also well known for their triangular iris blades creating a unique triangle bokeh.

Promotional poster for the film 'Taxi Driver' featuring a man in a green jacket standing in front of a yellow taxi at night. Text includes cast and crew details, such as Robert De Niro and director Martin Scorsese.
The Shining movie poster with yellow background, woman's face embedded in text, and details about cast and crew.