ZhongYi Optics is offering a new set of ultra-fast cine lenses on Indiegogo. The three lenses in the Zone T1 series feature a light intensity of exactly T1 (similar to some of their Speedmaster lenses). The three prime lenses—35mm, 50mm, and 75mm—cover a full-frame/VistaVision image circle of 46mm and come standard with a PL mount, which can be swapped for an EF mount.
ZhongYi Zone T1 Cine Lenses
The Zone T1 lenses are fast, but not particularly portable—they are larger and heavier than, for example, the previous Speedmaster lenses. They each weigh around 3 kg with a diameter of 132mm and a length of 137.8mm; their housings are uniformly designed with 0.8 MOD gear rings. The optical design consists of 13 elements in 12 groups for the 35mm, 11 elements in 10 groups for the 50mm, and 11 elements in 9 groups for the 75mm.
The focus rotation angle is 270°, and the minimum focusing distance is 0.6m, 0.52m, and 0.7m, respectively. According to ZY, focus breathing is minimal, while flares are said to have a vintage character. The aperture consists of 16 blades. A 110mm filter thread allows for the use of corresponding filters or matte boxes.
You can now secure the ZhongYi Zone T1 cine lenses individually or at preferential prices via crowdfunding (with the associated risks, although this is a campaign from an established manufacturer). The regular price will later be 2,499 US dollars per lens or 6,999 US dollars for the 3-lens set—significantly more than what one is used to from ZY. Those interested in the lenses can find a test review at Newsshooter: https://www.newsshooter.com/2026/07/02/zhongyi-optics-z-one-ff-cine-t1-lens-series-review/
