Overview
The Simera-C is a series of compact cine prime lenses from Chinese manufacturer Thypoch, founded in 2023, which launched its first cine lens series in cooperation with DZOFILM. The lenses cover full-frame sensors and are positioned as a lightweight, affordable alternative to classic cine optics. Structurally, the design is based on classic rangefinder lenses, combined with cine features such as ribbed gear rings for follow focus.
A characteristic feature of the set is a largely uniform front diameter of 67 mm for focal lengths 16/21/28/35/50 mm, as well as a largely identical position of the focus and aperture rings across these focal lengths. This allows for quick lens changes on set without needing to readjust the matte box, follow focus, or filters. The longer 75 mm lens is the exception here: it has a front diameter of 72 mm and also differs in dimensions.
Technical Data
The following values are confirmed by manufacturer specifications and the trade press. Focal lengths and speed of the series:
| Focal Length | Speed |
|---|
| 16 mm | T1.9 |
| 21 mm | T1.5 |
| 28 mm | T1.5 |
| 35 mm | T1.5 |
| 50 mm | T1.5 |
| 75 mm | T1.5 |
Further Features:
- Image Circle: approx. 43.2 mm (Full Frame)
- Aperture: 16 iris blades for round bokeh
- Focus Throw: 210° rotation angle, with metric and imperial (feet) dual scale
- Front Diameter: 67 mm for 16/21/28/35/50 mm, 72 mm for 75 mm. The specified 67 mm value refers to the external front diameter, not the filter thread – the actual filter thread of most optics is M62x0.75.
- Mounts: Sony E-Mount and Leica M-Mount; further mount variants announced
- Weight (E/M-Mount): the middle focal lengths range from approx. 353–402 g depending on the mount (e.g., 50 mm approx. 353–369 g, 28 mm approx. 377–395 g); the entire set goes up to approx. 491 g (21 mm, E-Mount). M-Mount versions are around 20–30 g lighter than their E-Mount counterparts.
On-Set Usage
Due to their low weight and compact design, the Simera-C lenses are particularly suitable for gimbal setups (e.g., DJI Ronin 4D), handheld work, and compact mirrorless/cine cameras. The M-Mount also allows the lenses to be easily adapted to various professional camera systems. The uniform geared rings allow operation with follow focus and wireless lens control systems.
The largely consistent design (same front diameter, same ring positions) reduces setup times when changing focal lengths within the 16–50 mm range and makes the set efficiently manageable for AC work (1st/2nd AC). When switching to the 75 mm lens, the different front diameter (72 mm instead of 67 mm) must be taken into account.