Size counts: Viltrox LUNA 42-420mm T5.6 large format cine zoom lens

Viltrox has unveiled a massive new large format Cine Zoom, the LUNA 42-420mm T5.6 lens. It’s rather eye catching and promises to deliver a huge focal length.

The Viltrox LUNA 42-420mm 10x Cine Zoom is quite the sight to behold. It is designed for large format cameras, and boasts an impressive 42-420mm focal length with a 10x zoom capability, offering versatility for various shooting scenarios. It maintains a constant T5.6 aperture throughout its entire zoom range, ensuring consistent exposure and depth of field. With a minimum focusing distance of 6 ft. (1.8 m), it allows for 'relatively' close-up shots while still accommodating a wide range of subjects.

The lens features a generous 60 mm image circle, making it ideal for use with large format cameras such as the new Blackmagic URSA Cine 17K or the ARRI ALEXA 65. It comes with LPL-mount support for easy integration with compatible camera systems. It is equipped with 0.8 gears for iris, zoom, and focus adjustments. 

However, its substantial weight of 35 pounds (16kg) will require additional support and some careful handling during use. This weight is in-line with other similar high-end zooms, but definitely puts it into the monster category.

Pricing and availability 

While Viltrox has been known for its affordable glass, for example a set of six AF F1.8 full frame lenses for Sony E-Mount for $3000, the LUNA 42-420mm Cine Zoom is a monster in other aspects too and will retail for $100,000. Again, eye-watering though that may be, this puts it in-line with the pricing of similar lenses. It will be available later in 2024 and we’re betting the majority of its sales will be to rental houses. 

Viltrox also has another huge lens, the LUNA 30-300mm T4. This retails for a comparatively cheap $65,000, and is a nice zoom to complement the 42-420mm. Additionally, the company also has a line of full frame anamorphic lenses under the EPIC brand name. Check out Viltrox’s website as more details are released.