Kinoptik Paris Apochromat 25mm f/2 Cine Lens Focale France C-Mount

Kinoptik Paris Apochromat 25mm f/2 Cine Lens Focale France C-Mount

The Kinoptik Paris Apochromat is a 25mm f/2 apochromatic cine lens manufactured in France by Kinoptik, one of the most respected French optical instrument makers of the mid-20th century. Apochromat lenses are corrected for chromatic and spherical aberration across three wavelengths, making them prized for high-resolution cinematography and scientific/technical imaging applications. This example, serial number 21022, has a seized focus ring due to hardened lubricating grease — a common condition issue on older Kinoptik lenses that is typically correctable by a qualified optical technician through a clean, lube, and adjust (CLA) service. The glass elements are in good condition and the aperture blades function normally.

Specifications & What's Included

• Brand: Kinoptik, Paris, France
• Lens designation: Apochromat (APO) — corrected for chromatic and spherical aberration
• Focal length: 25mm
• Maximum aperture: f/2
• Aperture range: f/2 – f/11 (markings visible on aperture ring)
• Focus distance markings: engraved in feet and inches (1'6" to 3' and beyond)
• Mount: C-mount (screw-in rear thread, standard 1" × 32 tpi)
• Country of manufacture: France (engraved on rear barrel)
• Serial number: 21022
• Lens coating: blue anti-reflection coating visible on front element
• Aperture blades: hexagonal, functional
• Focus ring: seized — hardened grease; does not turn (CLA needed)
• Glass condition: clear, no visible fungus or separation noted
• Body: chrome and black metal barrel with some wear and chrome loss on rear rim
• Includes: original black cylindrical storage case

Applications

Kinoptik Paris produced precision cine and scientific lenses from the 1930s through the 1970s, supplying optics for 16mm and 35mm film cameras, projectors, and technical imaging systems. The Apochromat series was used in demanding scientific cinematography, photomicrography, and high-resolution projection applications where color fringing had to be minimized. C-mount lenses like this one were standard on 16mm Bolex, Arriflex, Bell & Howell, and similar cameras of the era, and the C-mount format is still in use today on machine vision cameras, industrial inspection systems, and certain digital cine and mirrorless camera adapters. Collectors and cinematographers seek Kinoptik lenses for their optical quality and French craftsmanship. A unit with a seized focus ring but clear glass is a strong CLA candidate — technicians regularly restore these to full working order.