Affordable Apsara manual lenses offer retro look

Ron Sim, founder of Simmod Lens, has launched Apsara Lenses, introducing two new cine lens ranges – Lumière and Prestige – that blend vintage rendering with cutting-edge design and precision mechanics. Designed for content creators seeking both character and dependability, Apsara lenses offer a compelling mix of artistry and engineering.

The Lumière Series comprises four fast, compact T1.4 primes – 24mm, 35mm, 50mm, and 75mm – optimised for mirrorless mounts like Sony E, Canon RF, Nikon Z and L-Mount. They deliver creamy skin tones, subtle highlight halation, and painterly focus fall-off. Unique to Lumière is a patent-pending illuminated lens marking system for visibility in low light. Lenses are built with 80mm OD and 77mm filter threads.

The Prestige Series is a PL and LPL-mount line with five cine primes (24mm to 100mm) including macro capability. These lenses, covering formats up to Large Format, offer a consistent cinematic look across the set – minimal focus breathing, rich bokeh, and flattering colour rendition. The lenses feature precision mechanics, 95mm OD fronts, and robust all-metal barrels.

Manufactured in collaboration with Sirui and calibrated in Simmod’s new ISO-standard facility, every lens is tuned for optical character and mechanical precision. Sales also support the non-profit Apsara Academy.

Prices start at $849 USD. Pre-orders are open now, with shipping from August 2025 from simmodlens.com/apsara.