Meyer Optik Görlitz Announced Biotar 58 f1.5 II Lens (RF mount, and others)

Biotar 58
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Meyer Optik Görlitz announced a new lens, the Biotar 58 f1.5 II.

At a glance:

  • RF-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format
  • Aperture Range: f/1.5 to f/16
  • Manual Focus Design
  • 14-Blade Diaphragm
  • Filter Thread: 52mm

The Biotar 58 f1.5 II for RF mount can be preordered at B&H photo for $999.

Press release:

Meyer Optik Görlitz – Biotar 58 f1.5 II available!

Press release

Bad Kreuznach, Germany – September 07th, 2022 – Meyer Optik Görlitz releases the Biotar 58 f1.5 II, the long-awaited new edition of the world famous lens and adds another unique imaging style to its existing portfolio, of high quality character lenses. The Biotar 58 II is available now and can be purchased directly from the manufacturer & from well-stocked photo retailers.

“After several delays simply due to the current unforeseeable circumstances, we are extremely pleased to welcome this very exciting lens to our family and introduce it to the public,” says Timo Heinze, Managing Director Meyer Optik / OPC Optics. “Even though the Biotar is not a classic Meyer lens, it fits perfectly into our portfolio of creative tools, with unique characteristics. Nevertheless, to honor its foreign origin, we decided to manufacture it with a Biotar-exclusive coloring.”

About Biotar 58
Originally, the Biotar 58, among other focal lengths and versions, was designed by the ingenious optical designer Willi Merté. After its launch in the mid-1930s, it was offered for about 25 years, making it the longest and best-selling Biotar in that series to date. The new version of that extremely popular, highly versatile lens also delivers its incomparable charm and comes up with excellent imaging characteristics as the Biotar 58 f1.5 II. With the help of the Görlitz-based designer, Dr.-Ing. Wolf-Dieter Prenzel, the new edition of the Biotar 58 has been significantly improved in terms of light intensity, image sharpness and contrast behavior, and the wonderful characteristics of the original Biotar 58 have been transferred to the new version of this classic lens.

What makes the Biotar 58 f1.5 II stand out?
Biotars have always been appreciated for their wonderful bokeh options, a creamy image look, particularly harmonious focus gradients and good sharpness performance. In the out-of-focus area, with the right setting, a swirl of light circles can be created (also called ‘Swirly-Bokeh’), which particularly emphasizes the focused main subject. The captured light points near the center of the image appear circular and take on a more elliptical shape toward the edge of the image (also called ‘cat eyes’). The Biotar 58 f1.5 II is already characterized by high image sharpness at open aperture and at the same time delivers the beautiful effects in the out-of-focus area of the image. It also impresses in difficult lighting situations – the Biotar 58 II produces little to no color fringing even in strong backlighting and with an open aperture, and still achieves excellent results even in low light situations thanks to its speed. The targeted use of the effects, the many design options and the high sharpness make the Biotar 58 II the perfect choice for many different genres of photography and videography.

The fastest and sharpest Biotar 58 ever
In the course of redesigning the Biotar 58 and optimizing its optical system, the initial aperture of the lens has been increased from the original f2 to f1.5. There has never been a faster Biotar 58 and at the same time the Biotar 58 f1.5 II now represents the ‘fastest’ lens in Meyer Optik Görlitz’s portfolio. In addition to the higher speed, the Biotar 58 II, through various optimizations of the optical system, achieves a sharpness that its predecessors could not reach. This high sharpness or extreme resolution is a particularly noteworthy advantage for close-up and portrait photography.

Well-proven mechanical design and optimized aperture
For the Biotar 58 f1.5 II, the proven mechanics of the previous new editions were used and the individual optical elements were thus combined in a well-proven, highly precise and durable mechanical system. Compared to the original Biotar 58 lenses, 14 steel blades now form the stepless & silently adjustable aperture of the new edition. The circular aperture is particularly noticeable in the bokeh of the image and draws more harmonious points of light than its historical predecessors. All mechanics were, as with all Meyer Optik Görlitz lenses, sourced from renowned German precision mechanics manufacturers and were produced to the highest quality. The aluminum- / natural-colored anodizing used for the Biotars is intended to represent a connection to the historical origin and offers an excellent feel as well as a precious appearance at the same time.

The Biotar 58 f1.5 II, as well as all other Meyer lenses released to date, can be purchased at www.meyer-optik-goerlitz.com.

What follows?
Series production of the Biotar 75 f1.5 II has also begun and is expected to take until the end of the year. In addition, new lenses are in planning / development and will be released in the foreseeable future.

Meyer Optik Görlitz Announced The Primoplan 58 f1.9 II Lens

Primoplan 58 f1.9 II
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Meyer Optik Görlitz is back on track after their troubles, and released a new lens available also for the Canon EF mount: the Primoplan 58 f1.9 II.

At a glance:

  • Full-Frame Format
  • Aperture Range: f/1.9 to f/22
  • Central Dispersion & Converging Elements
  • Schott Glass, O’Hara Anti Reflex Coating
  • Manual Focus Design
  • Minimum Focus Distance: 2′
  • Filter Thread: 52mm
  • 12 AR-Coated Aperture Blades

The Primoplan 58 f1.9 II can be preordered at $899 at B&H Photo. Below you see some sample photos shot with the lens.

Press release:

Meyer Optik Görlitz Primoplan 58 f1.9 II available!

  • Continuation of the Primoplan series
  • Primoplan imaging language paired with optimal performance
  • Lens mechanics in established design style
  • What are the next steps?

Bad Kreuznach – 12th March 2021 – Meyer Optik Görlitz is expanding its Primoplan portfolio with the Primoplan 58 f1.9 II. In addition to the very successful Primoplan 75 f1.9 II, the second lens in this series is now available in the usual Meyer Optik mount versions.

“With great pleasure we now present, after intensive and accurate work, the new Primoplan 58 II“, says Timo Heinze, Managing Director of OPC Optics. „About 85 years after the first Primoplan 58, we now offer a lens that has the characteristics and image-language of the historical original, while being manufactured using the most modern production processes and the best materials. Thus, photographers can get a perfect Primoplan 58 II with all the wonderful features that make and have made it so popular.”

Continuation of the Primoplan series
Following the very successful launch of the new Primoplan 75 II last quarter, the new Primoplan 58 II adds another legendary lens to Meyer Optik Görlitz’s current range. The Primoplan 58 II brings the popular features of Primoplan-photography to a more “normal” focal length, making it even more versatile than the 75mm version.

Primoplan imaging language paired with optimal performance
The new Primoplan 58 II offers, through the consistent orientation on the original from 1936, exactly the imaging characteristics that have always made it so desirable. With an even further improved optical design, the new Primoplan 58 II delivers the best possible contrast and high image sharpness. At the same time, many bokeh variations – from classic bubble bokeh, to swirly bokeh, to very soft / creamy bokeh – can be created with the Primoplan 58 II. By combining the effects, versatile options are available. Also, the Primoplan 58 II delivers very good results, even in difficult lighting conditions, due to its speed of 1:1.9.

Lens mechanics in established design style
The design of the Primoplan 58 II follows the previous new editions from OPC Optics. So once again the lens received a stepless, damped, aperture & focus mechanism and can be used silently. As with all current Meyer-Optik lenses, the lens mechanics are produced by renowned German manufacturers in order to meet the high quality standards. In this way, an optimal interaction of the mechanical individual parts, a perfect feel and the longevity of the lenses are guaranteed.

What are the next steps?
Trioplan 35 II will expand the portfolio of Meyer Optik Görlitz this year. In addition, new versions of the famous Biotars are currently being developed in various focal lengths. As well as versions of the existing lenses for the latest camera mounts (Canon R and Nikon Z). The exact dates of those releases are difficult to specify due to the current situation, but will definitely all be in the second half of this year.

Photos taken with the new lenses and further information are available at www.meyer-optik-goerlitz.com/en/.

Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II Lens Released

Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II
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Born again Meyer-Optik Gorlitz released a new lens for various mount types, the Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II.

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II is available for the Canon EF mount (among others).

Mounts:Canon EF, Fuji X, Leica M, M42, MFT, Nikon F, Pentax K, Sony E
Aperture:f1.9 – f16
Focal length:75mm
Filter diameter:52mm
Minimum object distance:0,75 m
Rangefinder Coupling for Leica:no (focusing must be done via LiveView)

The Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II sells at $999: B&H Photo.

Meyer-Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II Overview

Characterized by its speed and portrait-length field of view, the Primoplan 75mm f/1.9 II from Meyer-Optik Gorlitz is a sophisticated, yet simple prime for Canon EF-mount cameras. The bright f/1.9 maximum aperture pairs well with the short telephoto focal length to allow working with shallow depth of field and selective focusing techniques, and the fast aperture also benefits working in difficult lighting conditions. Its manual focus design further offers control when focusing down to 2.5′, and a 14-blade diaphragm contributes to a smooth bokeh quality. The five elements, four groups optical design makes use of Schott glass for a high degree of clarity, and an O’Hara Anti Reflex Coating has also been applied to limit flare and surface reflections for improved contrast and color accuracy. Additionally, the lens features an anodized aluminum housing that is durable, lightweight, and contributes to smooth, silent focusing performance.

  • Portrait-length prime is designed for full-frame Canon EF-mount cameras, however it can also be used on APS-C models where it will provide a 120mm equivalent focal length.
  • Fast f/1.9 maximum aperture allows for extensive control over depth of field, for working with selective focus techniques, and also benefits working in low-light conditions.
  • Inspired by the original Cooke triplet optical design, this lens uses a five elements, four groups layout in which the central dispersion element is surrounded by two groups of converging elements, and the rear element has a biconvex converging design to produce notable smoothness and clarity.
  • Schott glass is used for high clarity and contrast, and each of the elements feature an O’Hara Anti Reflex Coating to suppress lens flare and ghosting for color neutrality.
  • Manual focus design permits working with subjects as close as 2.5′ away.
  • Fourteen diaphragm blades contribute to a smooth bokeh quality.
  • Front 52mm filter thread is consistent throughout the Meyer-Optik Gorlitz version II lens series.

Meyer Optik Görlitz Released The Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II Lens (Canon EF mount, and others)

Trioplan 50 f2.8
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Meyer Optik Görlitz released a new lens, the Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II, an entirely new designed lens. Meyer Optik Görlitz had some troubled times and is now coming back.

The Trioplan 50mm f/2 II. sells at €876.34 (approx. $1,000, before shipping) at Meyer Optik Görlitz’ site.

The Trioplan 50mm f/2.8 II at a glance:

Mounts:Canon EF, Fuji X, Leica L, Leica M, M42, MFT, Nikon F, Pentax K, Sony E
Aperture:f2.8 – f22
Focal length:50mm
Filter diameter:52mm
Minimum object distance:0,4 m
Rangefinder Coupling for Leica:no (focussing must be done via LiveView)

Description:

The all-rounder with the special Trioplan-Bokeh

Our Trioplan 50 f2.8 II has been redesigned from scratch. A new mechanical design based on the Trioplan 100 f2.8 II now offers photographers an excellent handling of the 50mm focal length from the Trioplan family. By optimizing the optical design, it is now possible to focus on infinite sharpness even at aperture f2.8 and thus nothing stands in the way of versatile use. Of course, the Trioplan 50 f2.8 II also draws the famous soapbubble bokeh and at shorter distances a light swirl is created in the bokeh of the image. Like all current Meyer Optik Görlitz lenses, the Trioplan 50 f2.8 II was also designed for full format, but can of course also be used on APS-C cameras.

Historical model in a new guise

Through the use of high-quality materials and the latest manufacturing technologies, the more than 100-year history of the Trioplan 50 has been cast into modern moulds. Of course, the character of the Trioplan 50 was taken into account and implemented accordingly. Our Trioplan 50 f2.8 II offers photographers an individual picture language and at the same time the versatile possibilities of a 50mm focal length. Of course the Trioplan 50 is manufactured for the most common mounts of modern cameras: Canon EF, Nikon F, Fuji X, Sony E, Pentax K, M42, Micro-Four-Thirds, Leica M and Leica L.

The unique style of Trioplan

In addition to the well-known soapbubble bokeh, which is created most strongly in backlight situations, the Trioplan 50 f2.8 II draws a light swirl at close range. The versatility of a 50mm focal length or a so-called “normal lens” makes the Trioplan Bokeh suitable for many applications such as street/reportage, portrait and nature photography. Due to the natural-looking viewing angle at 50mm fixed focal lengths, the certain something is missing in some photographs and that’s exactly what the Trioplan with its wonderful Bokeh can contribute. By using macro-rings, you can profit from the special bokeh of the Trioplan 50 f2.8 II even in the macro range.

Here Are Images Of The Upcoming Meyer Optik Trioplan 100 f/2.8 II, Trioplan 50, Lydith 30 Lenses

Meyer Optik Görlitz
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Meyer Optik Görlitz is set to release renewed lenses soon. If you missed it, the traditional German lens manufacturer has some troubles in the recent past.

These optimized Meyer Optik lenses are going to be announced: the Trioplan 100 f2.8 II, Trioplan 50, Lydith 30 and Primoplan 75. Images of the first three of these lenses are available. All lenses will come for to following mount types: Canon EF, Fuji X, Leica L, Leica M, M42, MFT, Nikon F, Pentax K, Sony E.

Meyer Optik Trioplan 50mm

Canon EF, Fuji X, Leica L, Leica M, M42, MFT, Nikon F, Pentax K, Sony E
Aperture:f2.9 – f22
Focal length:50mm
Filter diameter:52mm
Minimum focusing distance:0,4 m
Rangefinder Coupling for Leica:no

Trioplan 100mm

Mounts:Canon EF, Fuji X, Leica L, Leica M, M42, MFT, Nikon F, Pentax K, Sony E
Aperture:f2.8 – f22
Focal length:100mm
Filter diameter:52mm
Minimum focusing distance:0,9 m
Rangefinder Coupling for Leica:no

Lydith 30mm

Mounts:Canon EF, Fuji X, Leica L, Leica M, M42, MFT, Nikon F, Pentax K, Sony E
Aperture:f3.5 – f16
Focal length:30mm
Filter diameter:52mm
Minimum focusing distance:0,15 m
Rangefinder Coupling for Leica:no
[via Sony Alpha Rumors]
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Meyer Optik Gorlitz Reborn, Admits Expensive Nocturnus Was Modified Chinese Lens

Meyer Optik
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You probably heard about the sad fate of Meyer Optik Gorlitz. The company has now been aquired by OPC Optics, and they eventually disclosed that:

We became aware that internally the Somnium was actually a modified Russian lens and the Nocturnus was a modified Chinese lens.

As a consequence those lines have been cut from the portfolio:

“That is an absolute no go. As a German manufacturer using the ‘Made in Germany’ quality seal, this is a shameful indictment. These lenses may be perfectly good in their own right, but their production methods and marketing goes against all our principles,” states Timo Heinze, Managing Director of OPC Optics. “With us, nothing of this nature will occur”

Press release (via Mirrorless Rumors):

Successful start to the year for Meyer Optik Görlitz

• Previous portfolio fully analyzed
• Plans for product refinements and new developments
• Collaborations with partners in Germany secured
• Launch of new website
• Sale of acquired lens stock

Bad Kreuznach – 27 February 2019 – Following the takeover by OPC Optics, Meyer Optik is taking its first steps back into the public eye by launching a completely new website. It has been a while since the press release in December 2018 announcing the takeover of the brand, but this time has been used intensively to analyze the existing products, identify improvements and carefully plan and implement the company’s next steps.

CanonWatch.com

“Once all the information about the portfolio, the technical designs etc. had been handed over to us, we realized relatively quickly that we would need to invest considerable time and effort to establish a professional infrastructure. Meyer Optik is now benefiting from the combined experience I have gained during my many years working in the optics industry and the various positions I have held in large companies in this field,” explains Timo Heinze, Managing Director of OPC Optics. “It’s fair to say that the previous organization and processes shocked us on occasions. A range of new systems was absolutely necessary to establish a professional standard of production. Seamless documentation and control is essential, be it in development, for external and internal communication or for production planning, for example.”

New range of lenses has been streamlined

After analyzing the portfolio of products most recently sold and advertised by the previous supplier, a decision was made to discontinue the Somnium and Nocturnus ranges for the time being. In line with comments in the past on various online platforms, forums etc., the current Meyer Optik staff also soon became aware that internally the Somnium was actually a modified Russian lens and the Nocturnus was a modified Chinese lens.
“That is an absolute no go. As a German manufacturer using the ‘Made in Germany’ quality seal, this is a shameful indictment. These lenses may be perfectly good in their own right, but their production methods and marketing goes against all our principles,” states Heinze. “With us, nothing of this nature will occur. At the same time, we are not ruling out launching lenses with similar characteristics in the future. But if we did decide to do so, they would, of course, be our own designs and produced by us, in order to genuinely earn the ‘Made in Germany’ label.”

CanonWatch.com

Planned refinements and developments

Meyer Optik is currently placing significant emphasis on the refinement and optimization of existing products and the development of additional product ranges. As a result, some of the most recently available lenses will just be improved slightly, whilst other models will have a more radical overhaul.“We have had in-depth discussions with our partners and with photographers, and we have collated all the customer feedback about each individual lens in order to carry out the most comprehensive and meaningful analysis possible. We have gained valuable insights in all areas, starting with the lens design, through to the mechanics, the assembly and the most important link in the chain, the photographer, all of which are now being incorporated into the ongoing developments. We have also identified some opportunities for optimizing the lenses used previously. We expect the new models to offer improved image performance, better mechanical quality, a more comfortable feel and to be more user-friendly. Of course, while making these changes, the unique character of each individual lens will still be retained,” explains Heinze.The current expectation is that the first new versions of previous lenses, such as the Trioplan 100, will be ready to be introduced from summer 2019. Details of new products, which are being developed at the same time, are expected to be released in the second half of 2019.

Long-term collaborations with partner companies in Germany

At the beginning of the year, successful talks were held with German companies working in the fields of optical and mechanical lens design, as well as precision engineering, and long-term collaborations were agreed. By doing this, OPC Optics can draw on years of experience in the areas of design and mechanical production, consolidating its own expertise in all aspects of high-precision glass lens manufacturing. This has paved the way for the production of high-quality Meyer Optik products, manufactured entirely in Germany.

New website now available

For anyone interested, the new website is now available at www.meyer-optik-goerlitz.com. In future, customers will be able to buy Meyer lenses via the website. There is also extensive information about the history of Meyer and current manufacturing processes. Information on additional topics, such as the Meyer philosophy, will follow shortly. The website will also soon be available in English. In addition to news and useful information about photography, there will also be opportunities for customer interaction. Amongst other things, visitors will be able to comment on the product portfolio.

A sale of stock from the takeover
As part of the takeover of the brand, OPC Optics also acquired the previous manufacturer’s stock of finished goods. These lenses have been checked by OPC and will be for sale at greatly reduced prices, for as long as stocks last. OPC Optics will, of course, honor guarantees and warranties for 2 years from the date of purchase. Any subsequent production of these lens designs or their components is not envisaged in the current development plan.