GL Optics Rehousing: Retrofitting vintage lenses into modern housings with standardized mounts and gear rings.
Technical Details
GL Optics manufactures its rehousing bodies from CNC-milled aluminum blocks with a tolerance of ±0.002mm. Standardized dimensions include focus and aperture gear rings with 0.8 module pitch, 300° focus rotation, and uniform gear positions across all focal lengths within a set. The flange focal distance is calibrated to PL mount standard (52mm) with millimeter precision. The bodies weigh between 1.8kg (35mm) and 2.4kg (85mm) and offer screw-in points for 15mm rod support. Optional macro focus extensions up to 1:1 magnification and close focus modifications down to 25cm are realized.
History & Development
GL Optics was founded by Guido Lukoschek in Munich in 2009, after he had previously experienced the limitations of old lenses in modern productions as a camera assistant. The first major rehousing project was Zeiss Super Speed Mark III lenses in 2011 for the series "Parfum". In 2013, GL Optics developed the first full-frame rehousing for Leica Summilux-R lenses, followed by specialization in anamorphic Isco optics in 2015. Since 2018, the company has also offered vintage zoom rehousing for Angenieux lenses, and since 2020, custom solutions for collector's lenses like Cooke Speed Panchros.
Practical Use in Film
Wes Anderson's "The French Dispatch" (2021) utilized GL Optics-rehousted Cooke Speed Panchros for a characteristic vintage look with modern handling. "Babylon" (2022) used rehousted Zeiss Super Speeds for period-authentic imagery. The uniform gear positions allow for seamless focal length changes without follow focus recalibration. Typical workflows combine 3-4 rehousted prime lenses (25mm, 35mm, 50mm, 85mm) as a compact set. Disadvantages: 6-8 weeks processing time and potential impairment of the original optics during improper disassembly.
Comparison & Alternatives
GL Optics competes with True Lens Services (USA), IronGlass Adapters, and P+S Technik Vintage-Line. While TLS focuses on Hollywood standards, GL Optics specializes in European optics and custom solutions. Alternatives include lens adapter systems from Wooden Camera or original vintage lenses with separate support systems. Rehousing is suitable for productions with frequent lens changes and standardized workflows, whereas original housings suffice for one-off uses or budget productions.