Apsara lenses offer retro aesthetic with modern reliability
Posted on Jul 15, 2025 by Adam Duckworth
Apsara’s Lumière and Prestige series combine cinematic character with rugged mechanics, offering filmmakers an affordable yet high-performance lens solution
Ron Sim, founder of Simmod Lens, has launched Apsara Lenses, introducing two new cine lens ranges – Lumière and Prestige – that blend vintage rendering with cutting-edge design and precision mechanics. Designed for filmmakers seeking both character and dependability, Apsara lenses offer a compelling mix of artistry and engineering.
The Lumière Series comprises four fast, compact T1.4 primes – 24mm, 35mm, 50mm and 75mm – optimised for mirrorless mounts like Sony E, Canon RF, Nikon Z and L-Mount. Despite their small size, these lenses cover everything from Full-Frame to VistaVision and even ALEXA LF Open Gate. They deliver creamy skin tones, subtle highlight halation and painterly focus fall-off. Unique to Lumière is a patent-pending illuminated lens marking system for visibility in low light. Lenses are built with 80mm OD and 77mm filter threads for compatibility with standard rigs.
The Prestige Series is a PL and LPL-mount line with five cine primes (24mm to 100mm) including macro capability. These lenses, covering formats up to Large Format, offer a consistent cinematic look across the set – minimal focus breathing, rich bokeh and flattering colour rendition. Built for serious productions, the lenses feature precision mechanics, 95mm OD fronts and robust all-metal barrels.
Manufactured in collaboration with Sirui and calibrated in Simmod’s new ISO-standard facility, every lens is tuned for optical character and mechanical precision. Sales also support the non-profit Apsara Academy, fostering filmmaking in underserved communities.
Prices start at $849 USD. Pre-orders are open now, with shipping from August 2025 from simmodlens.com/apsara.
