New DK-Optic Chiaro Recreates the Classic Super Six 1.5-inch F/1.9

DK-Optic has unveiled the Chiaro 1.5-inch F/1.9, a new Leica M-mount lens that pays tribute to the legendary British Super Six 1.5-inch f/1.9. Designed for photographers who appreciate classic rendering, the lens aims to faithfully recreate the optical character of the original while benefiting from modern manufacturing techniques.

According to DK-Optic, the Chiaro is intended as a 1:1 recreation of the historic design, preserving its distinctive rendering rather than modernizing it for maximum sharpness.

“The Super Six 1.5-inch f/1.9 stands as one of the most legendary standard-focal-length lenses in the realm of painterly optics. In its era, it represented the absolute pinnacle of balancing extreme resolving power with dream-like bokeh.”

Faithful Recreation of a Classic Design

The Chiaro 1.5-inch F/1.9 features a 38mm equivalent focal length and retains the original six-element, four-group optical design that made the Super Six famous among collectors and enthusiasts.

Rather than chasing the clinical rendering of many modern lenses, DK-Optic says the Chiaro preserves the classic optical signature of the original.

The company describes the lens as producing “mesmerizing 3D spatial separation,” with sharp subjects standing out against smooth, painterly backgrounds. According to DK-Optic, stopping the lens down increases contrast and resolving power while maintaining its classic rendering characteristics.

Built for Leica M Cameras

As expected from a rangefinder lens inspired by a vintage design, the Chiaro is manual focus only.

The lens is fully coupled for Leica M rangefinder cameras and focuses as close as 0.75 meters. It also features a 10-blade aperture diaphragm, which DK-Optic says maintains smooth, circular bokeh throughout the aperture range.

Although designed for Leica M cameras, the lens can also be adapted to many modern mirrorless systems using readily available mount adapters.

Premium Construction

The Chiaro combines vintage-inspired optics with modern materials.

Its barrel is machined from 7075 aerospace-grade aluminum, while the focusing helicoid and aperture ring are constructed from aerospace-grade brass, providing smooth operation and a refined tactile feel.

Despite its metal construction, the lens remains relatively compact, measuring 48mm in length and weighing 188 grams. It accepts 37mm filters, making it easy to pair with commonly available accessories.

Each lens also includes several premium extras, including a precision-machined metal front cap, a vintage-style lens hood, and a custom bamboo presentation box. DK-Optic backs the lens with a one-year warranty.

Pricing and Availability

The DK-Optic Chiaro 1.5-inch F/1.9 is available now through the DK-Optic online store for $1,600. The lens is offered in Leica M mount and can be adapted to a variety of full-frame mirrorless camera systems using the appropriate adapters.

Sample Images with the DK-Optic Chiaro 1.5-inch F/1.9

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