Table of Contents
Angénieux Optimo 24-290mm T2.8
Summary
The Angénieux Optimo 24–290mm T2.8 is widely regarded as one of the most versatile and influential cinema zoom lenses of the early 2000s. Introduced in 2001, it quickly became a staple of high-end film and television production, offering an unusually wide focal range in a single lens while maintaining consistent optical performance across the zoom. Its parfocal design, minimal breathing, and robust mechanics earned it a reputation as a “workhorse zoom” for cinematographers working on both studio features and location shoots.
The lens helped establish Angénieux’s modern Optimo line as a benchmark for premium cinema zooms, setting standards for sharpness, contrast, and color consistency. It was frequently paired with the complementary Optimo 17–80mm and later iterations of the Optimo series, forming the backbone of countless productions for over two decades. Despite newer models entering the market, the 24–290mm remains in widespread use and is often cited as one of the most successful long-range cine zooms ever produced.
Tech Specs
| Manufacturer | Angénieux |
| Series | Optimo |
| Model | |
| Focal Length | 24-290mm |
| Zoom Ratio | 12x |
| Max Aperture | T2.8 |
| Min Aperture | T22 |
| Format | Super 35 |
| Image Circle | 30mm |
| Minimum Focus | ⌀48 in. |
| Focus Rotation | 327° |
| Iris Blades | 6 |
| Optical Design | 24/5 |
| Squeeze | none |
| Front Diameter | 162mm |
| Filter Thread | none |
| Native Mount | PL |
| Data Protocol | none |
| Length | 17.3 in. |
| Weight | 10977 g |
| Body Telescope | none |
| Body Material | Aluminum |
| Focus Drive | Manual |
| Iris Drive | Manual |
| Zoom Drive | Manual |
History
Country of Origin: France
Release Date: 2001
Launch Price: ~$60,000 USD
Design Revisions:
Service
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Angenieux Optimo 24-290mm T2.8 Service Manual [PDF]
Contributed by Matthew Duclos.
This section restricted to Duclos Staff users.
Discontinued lens as of 2023. parts sparingly available until end of 2024
Service Manual: Disassembly/Re-assembly
Angenieux element compatibility: FE/RE Compatibility
Full CLA: 24 hrs.
Spray threads: + 2 hrs. (aim for 0.0005“ play in threads.)
if only focus helical and focus housing are sent in but no glass or rest of lens. offered to Keslow only.
Focus section only without full disassembly: 8 hrs.
Remove male/female helical, optics remain inside lens.
Spray threads: + 2 hrs. (aim for 0.0005” play in threads.)
Focus section only with partial disassembly: 12 hrs.
Includes partial disassembly of focus section including removal of glass.
Spray threads: + 2 hrs. (aim for 0.0005“ play in threads.)
Focus upgrade: $1,750
Upgrade requires Full CLA or Focus Only (12 hr.)
Confirm parts pricing in QB, #38201011.
$250 credit for keeping focus carriage.
Zoom section only: 14 hrs.
Collimation 1 hr.
Adjust alignment: +1 hr.
Tighten and secure focus stop: 2 hrs.
Clean and sub iris section only: 1 hrs.
Spherical aberration correction: 2 hrs.
if image blooms excessively, it has an air spacing issue under the front element. to test, put the half front cap tool (in the 1st projection room) on the front of the lens with open half at the top of the lens. If this flare disappears, adjust shim under the front element to correct the air spacing.
Accessories:
Zoom Stock: M4
…end of Staff section