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Compare specifications and GLM's editorial notes. Check the source documentation for the exact lens version, then send both families with your project details.

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Atlas / Anamorphic

Atlas Mercury Anamorphic

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Caldwell / Anamorphic

Caldwell Chameleon XLC

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Original illustrations of representative lenses, with simplified details and no shared scale. The overview, use cases and tradeoffs are editorial selection guidance. Test the exact lenses on your camera before committing to a package.

Atlas Mercury Anamorphic and Caldwell Chameleon XLC: specifications and editorial notes
SpecificationAtlas Mercury AnamorphicCaldwell Chameleon XLC
OverviewFull-frame 1.5x anamorphic primes with 95mm fronts. Atlas describes warm rendering and golden flares; the range now extends from 24mm to 138mm.The extra-large-coverage branch of Caldwell's Chameleon anamorphics. XLC pairs a 1.79x squeeze with a manufacturer-specified 60mm image circle.
Lens typeAnamorphicAnamorphic
Focal range24mm-138mm45–140mm
Max. apertureT2.2-T2.6T2.8 core; 140mm T3.6
Coverage

Super 35 / Full Frame

Atlas specifies full-frame coverage in 16:9, 3:2 and 4:3. The 138mm is T2.6; the other focal lengths in the technical sheet are T2.2. Confirm the lens against the selected sensor mode.

Super 35 / Full Frame

XLC has a specified 60mm image circle. Confirm the intended sensor mode; SC and UW versions have different coverage.

MountsPLNot established
Image circleNot established60 mm
Use cases
  • Gimbal or handheld anamorphic
  • Full-frame productions needing compact packages
  • Lower-footprint commercial work
  • Large-format anamorphic capture
  • Anamorphic work requiring a 60mm image circle
Tradeoffs to test
  • 1.5x squeeze is a different flavor than 2x classics
  • Less raw imperfection than older anamorphics
  • The widest XLC focal length is 45mm.
  • SC and UW versions have different coverage and must be treated separately.
Sources
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GLM can use this profile as a starting point for lens strategy, sourcing, or adjacent package recommendations.

Coverage can change with focal length, rear optics and sensor mode. Inventory links describe the mapped GLM package; confirm the exact set, price and shoot dates with GLM.

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