TAMASHII represents the next chapter in rehoused vintage lenses. This is the first lens set we have curated where a specific set of features and character traits were chosen, that each focal length had to adhere to. Often with rehoused photo lenses, there are a few focal lengths that are the standouts, with “filler” lenses to round out and complete the set. For example, with Canon FDs the aspherical 24mm, f1.4, 55mm f1.2 and 85mm f1.2 are the standouts, and are different than the rest of the set in terms of character and performance. However, in TAMASHII, every single focal length is a standout. Every focal length adheres to our rules for character and performance. Every lens is a winner. Every lens will make you obsessed with shooting with it.

Our goal was a difficult one: we wanted lenses that delivered the unique bokeh of LOMO Super Speeds, the gorgeous lens flares of Canon K-35s, the sharpness of Zeiss Super Speeds, but with no chromatic aberration, even when shooting wide open. And of course, the lenses needed to match perfectly from focal length, to focal length.

Since lens character is most prevalent when you shoot wide open, the lenses needed to be as close to T2 as possible, which is a more manageable stop when shooting on FF/LF/VV sensors. It’s still fast, still gives you excellent separation between subject and background, but allows you to keep your subject in focus. These lenses are begging you to shoot them on full frame sensors, and are made to shoot wide open, which is where they deliver their unique blend of character. And yes, they are sharp enough to shoot wide open.

It took two years of research and testing to put together a lens set that met our standards. Literally hundreds of lenses were tested in search of this ideal set.

The housing are gorgeous, but also functional. Not only are the lenses performers, but the lenses are also very compact, very lightweight, and focus extremely close.  We feel that the images they produce are some of most beautiful we have ever seen, compared to any lens, from any year, at any price point. They are addictive to shoot with. You are never fighting them. They just make every image special.
Project is a collaboration between OldFastGlass, Zero Optik and Ancient Optics.

Our set is No 002 in the world and of course first in Europe.