COMING SOON: Full Frame Module!
COMING SOON: Full Frame Module!
OpTex Excellence Probe Lens System Rental
from Element Camera
Only Element Camera in Los Angeles offers one of the few complete OpTex Excellence Probe Lens Systems in the world. Originally produced in limited numbers before OpTex closed in the mid-2000s, this lens remains the industry benchmark for immersive macro cinematography.
The ultimate and complete Optex Excellence kit — all modules designed and built, multiple focal lengths
Expert setup & calibration — lenses tested before shipment
Flexible rental periods — short or long-term rentals, nationwide shipping
Sample clips & case studies — see the lens in action before booking
Why the OpTex Excellence Probe Lens?
Image Quality
The Excellence is purpose built to the highest possible quality. Engineers avoided using hybrid components traditionally used in periscope/probe systems with all the limitations they imposed. All optics are precisely color matched, so results are consistent in any combination. The result is a periscope/probe system that will give image quality equivalent to the best Prime Motion Picture lenses. Directors and Clients are thrilled with the visual clarity and detail of the OpTex Excellence Probe Lens.
Flexibilty
Built from the ground up as a rugged modular system, the OpTex Excellence Probe Lens can be arranged in multiple configurations with five different focal lengths and various format modules. Images are prime-lens-sharp at a fast T5.6 in 35mm mode (T2.8 in S-16 and T2.2 in 2/3”). Most probe systems today are shorter, slower, built from plastic, designed around a single focal length, and cannot be re-configured to match the needs of challenging shots.
The OpTex Excellence Probe Lens is a legendary tool for macro and product cinematography, known for its unmatched immersive perspective and precision engineering. This rare probe lens delivers stunning close-up shots of products, food, cosmetics, toys, wearables, and tech, creating dynamic visuals that feel fresh and cinematic.
The Swiss Army Knife of Optics
Modular by design, the OpTex Excellence Probe Lens can be quickly and easily changed into multiple configurations. Need to reach across a table top? Configure as a Borescope. Need to get low? A Periscope will get you on the deck. Click through the images below for options and ideas.
Multiple Points of View
Five Prime lenses - 120°, 100°, 78°, 60°, and 43° - marked in Degrees rather than focal length, Focal Length equivalents are represented in the table below by format.
Degrees represent field of view (FOV). This because the system is universal across a wide range of formats.
FOV and Depth of field are maintained across all formats.
Each color-matched telecentric lens is sharp with excellent contrast equal to current prime lenses. Lens quality is superb wide open.
The OpTex Excellence’s Close focus is extreme, but each lens is capable of “twisting” a bit more to add the systems all-ready-amazing close focus capabilities. Think of it as an an additional variable extension tube.
The Aperture scale is in T Stops measured at Short Infinity. There is no need to compensate for exposure, no matter what module is used.
Lens Equivalents Chart
| T-Stop | 120° | 100° | 78° | 60° | 43° | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2/3 Video Relay | 2.2 | 4mm | 5.6mm | 8mm | 11.2mm | 16mm |
| Super 16 Module | 2.8 | 5mm | 7mm | 10mm | 14mm | 20mm |
| Super 35 Module | 5.6 | 10mm | 14mm | 20mm | 28mm | 40mm |
| COMING SOON: Full Frame Module | 8.0 | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Control Freak
Because of its compact and modular construction, the OpTex Excellence Probe Lens will work with a wide range of Motion Control (MoCo) rigs. The following table should be used to calculate movement nodes for pan and tilt. The Table shows the approximate front nodal plane of each prime lens. However, we advise individual tests for precision work. The measurements have been taken from the front ring of the lens.
MoCo Lens Data
| LENS | ENTRANCE PUPIL |
|---|---|
| 120° | 13.6mm |
| 100° | 15.2mm |
| 78° | 19.9mm |
| 60° | 23mm |
Recommended Accesories
PS Teknic Skater Dolly
Precise motion-control-esque moves are made easy with this amazing tool.
Breathe Easy Underwater
Our custom water sock allows the OpTex Excellence to go below the surface.
4ft Original Slider
Stability and precision are the name of the game in macro photography.
OpTex Excellence Probe Lens Documentation and Downloads
Print materials from the OpTex factory.
