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In this patent application (2026-013481), Canon has several interesting embodiments that we will explore here. These embodiments look very much like something I'd expect to see in a production halo RF 35mm f/1.2 prime. Lots of elements and dual focus groups to maximize the speed of focus, and also assist in eliminating any focus breathing that may occur.
However, there is one problem with all the lenses, sans the slower 24mm f/1.8 design, that they all have incredibly short back focus distances that make me wonder if these lenses would work well on the RF Mount.
As you are aware, the RF mount flange sits 20mm in front of the sensor. These 35mm designs would sit “in” approximately 9mm or 11mm away from the sensor. Elements that protrude that far, also have to have some form of shrouding to prevent accidental damage, usually making the entire lens assembly sit even further back.
This doesn't seem to give enough room from the sensor to the rear element, but I do know I've seen production designs sit up to 7mm into the mount, so perhaps there's room there.
That all being said, this is another look at a 35mm f/1.2 design and also a 24mm f/1.2, so it's certainly looking like Canon is actively researching the focal lengths and aperture combination.
Canon RF 35mm f/1.2L
This is a complex 35mm design worthy of the L monikor, featuring dual focus groups, a full image circle projection. The lens is relatively compact at around 124mm in total length. The lens seems to be very center weighted, so it will feel heavy.
| Focal length | 34.80 |
| F-number | 1.24 |
| Half angle of view | 31.87 |
| Image height | 21.64 |
| Total lens length | 135.00 |
| Back Focus | 11.00 |
Canon RF 24mm f/1.2L
In a design similar to the 35mm, this is an RF 24mm f/1.2 design, with dual focus groups, and it sits 11mm in front of the sensor, or 9mm inside the flange distance. It as well, projects a full image circle
| Focal length | 24.72 |
| F-number | 1.24 |
| Half angle of view | 41.19 |
| Image height | 21.64 |
| Total lens length | 130.00 |
| Back Focus | 11.00 |
Just a Reminder!
With all patents and patent applications, I have to stress constantly – this is simply a look into Canon’s research; the only thing we can quantify accurately is that Canon is researching this. A patent application doesn’t mean they are going to release this in the next month, or even year, or even at all.
Can't wait so see this (or whatever Canon chooses) becoming a product.
IQ and photos will be impressing for sure.
This Leica lens seems to deliver great IQ (just read PetaPixel's review)... for $10K 😱
Your turn, Canon! 😬
Be patient, in comparison, the Leica M Apo 35 will look like the bottom of a cheap wine bottle!
This I heard from a despaired, suicidal Leica lens chief-developer after he got secret insider news from Canon (believe me, it's sooo true!).
He bought a Hasselblad, isn't this reason enough?
"J'aime le rose, mais je prefere le vin"
I like rose, but I prefer wine...
Must have been a few posts here and there where I was critical of Canon's decisions.... 🤬
But Canon has gotten cruel with me just in the last few years 🥵
Nada, unless it's a full-frame point & shoot, which Canon would never do. The image height is FF.
PS: I dislike your associating wine and rose, never the twain shall meet!
Rose is to wine what Aperol spritz is to longdrinks.