Cooke Optics Expands Nikon Z-Mount Lens Options with AP3 and SP3 Cinema Primes

Cooke Optics has introduced its AP3 and SP3 series cinema prime lenses for Nikon Z-mount cameras, adding to existing mounts for Sony E, L-Mount, Canon RF, and Leica M. The SP3 series, announced in September 2023, originally comprised five lenses (25mm, 32mm, 50mm, 75mm, 100mm) with T2.4 aperture, later expanded with an 18mm T2.4 lens. The SP3 line is a modern mirrorless-friendly reimagining of Cooke's Speed Panchro lenses, promising exceptional resolution, rendering, flare behavior, and fall-off characteristic of the original SP lenses, collectively known as "The Cooke Look." Tim Pugh, CEO of Cooke Optics, noted in 2023 that boundaries between videography and cinematography are blurring, enabling cinematic glass for the pro-video market at accessible prices. The AP3 series, announced two months ago, comprises 35mm, 50mm, and 85mm 1.5x anamorphic primes with T2.4 aperture, retaining "The Cooke Look" with oval bokeh and streaking flare. These lenses default to Sony E-mount but include interchangeable mounts; Nikon Z is now available. The lenses are compatible with Nikon ZR and RED cameras. SP3 lenses cost $4,500 each (18mm: $4,970), with a five-lens set at $21,375 and six-lens set at $26,000. AP3 lenses are $7,750 each or $22,250 for a three-lens set with case.