This Nikkor NOCT 58mm f/1.2 CF cinema lens post is by Tim Arasheben (Instagram) – the lens is rehoused by Zero Optik and is mainly used in the movie industry (available for rent here):
Nikon introduced the Noct-Nikkor lens in 1977, in an effort to create a technical marvel optimized for nocturnal (low-to-no light) use. They did just that, soon it gained a reputation among photographers and the legend was born. As a Camera Assistant and now Camera Operator I have experienced Nikon lenses quite a bit for motion picture use. Initially we used them on “THE DARK KNIGHT” in 2008 for the VistaVision plate shots and then some aerial sequences. The lenses were actually a mixed bag of rehoused and raw Nikon glass. My first actual use of the NOCT was when a Director (R.Einhorn) asked me to explore lenses for the FX TV Pilot / Series “WILFRED”. We spoke about some options and quickly landed on the Nikon AIS LINE-UP. It was the NOCT lens that convinced us. The NOCT-Nikkor, was a truly “incredible” look that rendered backgrounds beautifully and created an immediate separation with gorgeous bokeh and flattering skin tones. I’ve used Nikon Lenses continually, on TV shows like “IT’S ALWAYS SYUNNY IN PHILADELPHIA” and the entire video campaign for “Vulcan Kawasaki” motorcycles. The Nikon AIS series represent outstanding character and excellent technical aspects.
