Overview
The Orion Series Silver Edition (Orion SE for short) is a limited variant of the anamorphic prime lenses from Atlas Lens Co. These are 2x anamorphic lenses (twice the horizontal squeeze) for the Super 35 image circle, designed for feature film, commercial, and music video production. Compared to the standard Orion series, the Silver Edition primarily differs in its flare and focus fall-off characteristics, as well as an optically modified design of the air gaps between the lens groups.
Optically and mechanically, the SE shares the same platform as the standard Orion: same front outer diameter, same focus gears, and the same modular construction. The Silver Edition is identifiable by its white front ring (instead of the yellow ring on the standard Orion) and its silver transport cases.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|
| Manufacturer | Atlas Lens Co. |
| Type | Anamorphic Prime Lens |
| Squeeze Factor | 2x (anamorphic squeeze) |
| Maximum Aperture | T2 (across the entire series) |
| Focal Lengths in Set | 32, 40, 50, 65, 80, 100 mm |
| Image Circle / Format | approx. 31 mm – Super 35 |
| Front Outer Diameter | 114 mm |
| Gear Module | 0.8 (standard cinema gearing) |
| Mount | interchangeable mount system (PL, among others) |
| Release | limited to 100 sets |
Difference from Standard Orion Series
- Flare Character: While the standard Orion produces a blue flare streak, the Silver Edition's flare is neutral and adopts the color of the respective light source on set. This offers more control over the look through the choice or coloring of the light.
- Focus Fall-off: Due to optimized air gaps between elements, the SE has a different through-focus fall-off (focus drop) than the standard series.
- Identification: white front ring instead of yellow; silver transport cases.
On-Set Usage
The consistent T2 aperture and the uniform 114 mm front outer diameter make lens changes in practice simple: matte boxes, follow focus units, and filters fit the entire series without modification. The common 0.8 gear module is compatible with standard follow focus motors and focus gears.
The image circle of around 31 mm covers Super 35 sensors; on large or full-frame sensors (e.g., ARRI ALEXA LF, Sony VENICE in full-frame mode), a focal length extender is required for full illumination, as the native image circle is otherwise insufficient. Due to its limited production run, the Silver Edition is primarily available through specialized rental houses.