Unlike his Western counterparts, Ultraman is an intergalactic superhero of gigantic proportions whose alter ego is basically doing the same job—only in regular human size. His alter ego may not depend on a camera like Spider-Man’s alter ego, but that does not stop the giant hero from appearing on a camera lens. Folks, meet the SG-image 18mm F6.3 60th Ultraman Limited Edition lens, a collaborative product that we never saw coming.
Released as part of the franchise’s 60th anniversary celebration, this ultra-compact manual-focus prime turns everyday photography into something that feels a little closer to a tokusatsu set. Not through gimmicks, but through scale. Or rather, the lack of it.
The lens is what SG-image calls an “Ultra-thin” design (“Ultraman”, “Ultra-thin” get it? Get it? 😆). At roughly 14 mm thick and weighing about 78 g, it is closer to a body cap than a traditional lens. Mounted on a camera, the setup stays pocket-friendly and unobtrusive, which makes it especially suited for street photography and casual carry. It is the kind of lens you leave attached all day without thinking twice.
Despite its size, the optical construction uses 4 elements in 6 groups, including two high-refractive-index elements intended to preserve contrast and dimensional rendering. The fixed F6.3 aperture keeps things simple and encourages point-and-shoot spontaneity, while a minimum focusing distance of 0.2 m supports close tabletop shots and detail work.
Visually, the Ultraman theme runs throughout the lens and packaging rather than stopping at a badge. The result feels like a proper commemorative piece instead of a standard lens with a logo printed on it. Operation is handled through a lever-style control that keeps adjustments intuitive and fast during shooting.
The SG-image 18mm F6.3 60th Ultraman Limited Edition lens is designed for APS-C cameras and is available in black or silver, with mounts for Sony E, Fujifilm X, and Micro Four Thirds systems.
Here’s a quick rundown of the key specifications:
- Focal length: 18 mm
- 35 mm equivalent: approx. 27 mm (APS-C), 36 mm (Micro Four Thirds)
- Aperture: F6.3 fixed
- Focus mode: manual focus
- Optical construction: 4 groups, 6 elements (including 2 high-refractive-index elements)
- Minimum focusing distance: 0.2 m
- Filter diameter: 37 mm (lens), 49 mm (hood)
- Dimensions: approx. 60 mm diameter × 14 mm thickness
- Weight: approx. 78 g
- Compatible mounts: Sony E, Fujifilm X, Micro Four Thirds
- Included accessories: rear cap, lens hood
- Warranty: 2 years (manufacturer)
The SG-image 18mm F6.3 60th Ultraman Limited Edition lens launches March 19, with reservations opening earlier through the 2ndfocus online store. The asking price is 16,800 yen (tax included) [JP] (around 106 USD).
Images: E&I Creation Co. Ltd., [JP].
