The Cooke Speed Panchro lenses are some of the most revered cine lenses in history, originally developed in the 1920s and refined through the mid-20th century. Their influence spans decades of filmmaking, having been used in classics like Citizen Kane (1941), The Witch (2015), Suspiria (2018), and Killers of the Flower Moon (2023). Even in the modern era, these lenses remain in demand, with our TLS rehoused set offering the same vintage optical character with updated mechanics.

Optically, Speed Panchros are defined by their fast apertures, allowing for excellent low-light performance and a shallow depth of field that beautifully isolates subjects. Their all-spherical optical design creates a naturalistic rendering, avoiding the overly sharp, high-contrast look of modern glass. Instead, they produce warm color reproduction, soft highlight roll-off, and gentle contrast, resulting in a cinematic, organic image. The bokeh is smooth and painterly, with slightly elliptical out-of-focus highlights, while the overall sharpness is balanced—clear but never clinical. Flare is subtle, often appearing as a soft glow rather than aggressive streaks, contributing to their signature dreamlike aesthetic.

What truly sets Speed Panchros apart is their dimensionality and focus fall-off, which create a tangible sense of depth that many modern lenses struggle to replicate. Skin tones appear natural and flattering, with a slightly lower micro-contrast that smooths out harsh details while retaining character. The older uncoated versions exhibit more pronounced halation and veiling glare, while later coated versions—like the Series III—maintain the same warmth but with improved contrast and reduced flare. Their ability to soften digital sensors while preserving detail makes them a favorite for cinematographers seeking a timeless, filmic look.