The newest addition to the Old Fast Glass rental fleet is the new Phenix 28-70mm T2.7 that was rehoused by Iron Glass. The Phenix is based on the Tokina 28-70mm F2.8.
The Phenix full frame zoom lens is parfocal in its new compact (110mm front) and lightweight (3.5 lbs.) cinema housing. Focus rotation has been expanded for accuracy to 300 degrees.
The original 8 blade iris has been replaced with a new and robust circular 15 blade iris. Minimum close focus distance was improved to an impressive 1’9″. There is also a shimmable stainless steel PL mount and Cerakoted aluminum exterior.
The Angenieux 28-70 and Tokina 28-70 share the same optical design. Who designed it is unclear, but they are identical in almost every way. There is strong evidence suggesting Tokina made all the Angenieux branded 28-70 zoom lenses. After thorough testing, the Tokina version for the Phenix Project was chosen, probably because these are a lot easier to find and more readily available.
As for the look, the lens is claimed to produce sharp images, with little to no CA. There is some focus fall off at the edges, but it is never problematic or distracting. Bokeh is said to have more texture than modern cinema zooms, and lens flares are gorgeous, making this lens a perfect match for many vintage primes, including Canon FD, Minolta Rokkor, Leica R, Nikon, Konica, and others.
The Tokina 28-70mm is one of the hardest lenses in the world to rehouse properly. It has 16 elements in 12 groups. There are up to 5 different movements happening simultaneously inside. Most lenses have one, two, or sometimes three,
Evgeniy Dulin was the Iron Glass engineer that designed the cam type system for this rehousing. He worked tirelessly to make this lens perform at a professional level without compromises.
Price & Availability
You will be able to purchase the Phenix 28-70mm T2.7 for $13,500 USD from Ancient Optics, however, a 50% deposit is required and deliver will take 3-6 months.
