Interview with IRIX – new 15mm f/2.4 lens makers (11mm, 4.0 is coming soon)

There is a new lens player in town – IRIX, looks like they are there to compete with Rokinon, Sigma and other prime lens makers. Their first lens is a 15mm f/2.4 full frame prime, and it looks delicious.

We had a chat with the European branch of IRIX a few days ago in the UK Photography show and we are impressed.

IRIX are Switzerland based (manufactured in South Korean) and they care for their gear. There are two versions coming. Both with similar optics, but with different “housing” a more expensive 650 Euro Mag Alloy housing and a sub-400 Euro plastic housing (both for Canon and Nikon with Pentax coming soon). Holding both at the show, I can say that they both feel extremely nice in your hand and feel very well constructed.

IRIX claim really superb optical quality, but as the only samples are from the actual company, we will have to wait till it hits the shelves in the next three months or so.

One scoop that the company gave us is that they are planning to release an 11mm, 4.0 lens and a Sony mounts soon.

Here is a short run down on the non-optics features (these guys definitely know what  photographers are griping about):

Innovative technology

Combining capabilities specific to analogue photography with ingenious technology and solutions, the Irix 15mm f/2.4 is the perfect tool for both professionals and hobbyists. The new special features such as focus lock, infinity click and hyperfocal scale set a new level of manual lens functionality.
Focus lock enables to lock the focus ring at any time enssuring the chosen settings.

Hyperfocal distance scale gives information about the accessible range for depth of field for a given aperture simply and intuitively. When the focusing ring is set in the “infinity” position, there is a noticeable “click” (infinity click), making it easier to find the value without looking

Resistant to extreme conditions

Irix lenses are made with extreme precision. Each Irix lens is equipped with a weather sealed construction that protects the interior against dust and moisture. Thanks to inner seals, our lenses are also protected from accidental water splashes.

Prepare for more and create

Despite its short focal length and large aperture, the Irix 15mm f/2.4 is equipped with not only a front filter mount, but also has a rear gelatin filter slot.

The design of the lens allows the use of 95 mm screw-in filters at the front in the petal-shape lens hood and gelatin filters at the back of the lens. This ensures unlimited possibilities for image creation.

Personalize your view

For the comfort of our customers Irix has created two versions of the Irix 15mm f/2.4 to meet their personality and individual taste.

Irix Blackstone:

Classic design meets maximum functionality, achieving the perfect match of innovative technology. The durable aluminium and magnesium body ensures foolproof protection of your lens, even in extreme conditions. Engraved fluorescent markings that reflect the light enable easy operation in all lighting conditions.

Irix Firefly

High quality mechanism in a handy design. Ergonomic focusing ring offers the freedom to capture the most ideal moment, whether it is big city architecture or wildlife scenery. The most lightweight lens in its class. Challenge accepted.