Thypoch Unveils the Ksana 21mm f3.5 for Leica M Mount
Thypoch has officially unveiled a new chapter in its lens lineup with the introduction of the Ksana series. The first entry, the Ksana 21mm f3.5 ASPH, is a manual focus prime designed for M-mount photographers who value both extreme portability and a specific vintage character in their images.
Thypoch 21mm f3.5 Key Specs
- 21mm Focal Range
- F3.5 Max Aperture
- Filter Thread: 39mm
- Max Format: 35mm FF
- Leica M Mount
- 8 Elements in 6 Groups
- ED, HRI, Aspherical
- 9-blade Diaphragm
- Weight: 131g
- Diameter x Length: 58mm x 35
- Min Focus Distance: 0.5m
- Max Magnification: 0.1x
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A Vintage Soul in a Modern Body
The philosophy behind the Ksana 21mm f/3.5 is to provide a 1970s cinematic aesthetic while utilizing modern housing and optical engineering. A standout feature is the Epoch Coating 73, which is specifically designed to produce amber light flares and a soft, golden bloom. This coating helps digital sensors achieve a more delicate color rendering that feels less clinical than many contemporary lenses.
Ultra-Compact Engineering
For those who prioritize a lightweight setup, this lens is a true pancake design. It stands only 27mm high (excluding the lens mount part) and weighs a mere 131 grams. Despite its small footprint, the all-aluminum construction remains durable. The lens features a tactile scalloped focusing ring and a crescent-shaped tab, providing the physical feedback that rangefinder enthusiasts expect.
Thypoch Ksana 21mm f3.5 Features
Optical Performance
The internal layout consists of eight elements in six groups. This includes one aspherical element, two extra-low dispersion elements, and three high refractive index elements. These work together to keep chromatic aberration and distortion low, despite the wide 21mm field of view. A nine-blade diaphragm ensures that highlights remain rounded, while stopping down to f/4 produces crisp 18-point starbursts.
Thypoch Ksana 21mm f3.5 in Silver
For rangefinder shooters, the lens offers a clever tactile reminder at 70cm. This click alerts you when the lens uncouples from the rangefinder mechanism, signaling that you should switch to an electronic viewfinder for closer focusing down to the minimum distance of 50cm.
Price and Availability
The Thypoch Ksana 21mm f/3.5 ASPH M-mount lens is available now in both classic black and silver finishes. It is priced at $549 USD or 479 Euros.
