New PL-Nikon Z Variable ND adapters bring cinema-grade exposure control directly into the mount.
KIPON proudly announces the launch of two groundbreaking cinema adapters: the PL-Nikon Z Variable ND. Designed specifically for professional cinematography, these new adapters integrate a continuously variable neutral density system directly into the mount, delivering a lighter, faster, and more efficient workflow for filmmakers.
 
The launch also marks a historic milestone for KIPON. For the first time in the company’s history, a flagship cinema product has been designed in Japan, assembled in Japan, and built around a Japanese optical supply chain.
 
A Decade of Innovation
More than ten years ago, KIPON pioneered one of the industry’s earliest autofocus adapters featuring an integrated Variable ND system.
 
Today, that pioneering spirit returns in a new form, bringing integrated Variable ND technology to the professional cinema world.
“These products represent the culmination of years of experience in optical engineering and adapter design,” said KIPON. “Our goal was to create a tool that improves real-world cinematography workflows without compromising optical quality or lens compatibility.”
 
Designed for Professional Cinema Lenses
One of the greatest engineering challenges of integrating Variable ND technology into a PL adapter is maintaining compatibility with cinema lenses that feature protruding rear optical groups.
To solve this problem, KIPON developed a unique deep-recessed Variable ND architecture. The ND assembly is positioned as deep as possible within the adapter body, while a precision multi-start threaded mechanism allows accurate flange focal distance adjustment.
This design maximizes rear-element clearance and ensures compatibility with a wide range of professional PL cinema lenses.
 
Developed with Industry Professionals
Throughout development, KIPON worked closely with leading Japanese cinema professionals, including technical specialists and camera crews from Sanwa Eizai and CRANK.
Extensive feedback from rental technicians, cinematographers, and production professionals helped shape the final design, ensuring the adapters meet the practical demands of modern film production.
 
Japanese Optical Quality
At the heart of the system is a premium Variable ND module manufactured in Japan.
The optical filters are produced by a specialized Japanese factory, delivering exceptional optical flatness, color consistency, image quality, and long-term reliability demanded by professional filmmakers.
 
Compatible with the KIPON Medium Format Cinema Ecosystem
The new adapters are fully compatible with the KIPON Mamiya645-PL 0.7x Optical Focal Reducer System.
Users can combine both products without mechanical interference, creating a unique cinema solution that offers:
Medium-format image characteristics
0.7x focal reduction
Increased light transmission
Integrated Variable ND control
This integration further expands the creative possibilities available to cinematographers working with vintage medium-format optics.
 
Models
• KIPON PL-Nikon Z Variable ND Adapter
 
Availability and Pricing
Both adapters will begin shipping in mid-August 2026.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP):
USD $699
Customers who purchase either Variable ND adapter together with the KIPON Mamiya645-PL 0.7x Optical Focal Reducer will receive a 15% bundle discount.
 
Nikon Z can swap with Sony E mount
Maxim clearence of Nikon Z&Sony E mount version is 26.6mm
whatever filter inserted or removed，back focal can be adjusted by rotating helicoid ring
NIKON Z &Sony E mount version can fit our KIPON Mamiya645-PL 0.7x focal reducer
Regarding if our PL Variable ND adapter fit this or that lens from different manufacture, we have extra lens checker included in the adapter kit to measure the lens, also pls use our lens clearence size to confirm with lens manufactures, we cannot answer so many questions, pls understand！
 
About KIPON
KIPON is a global leader in lens adaptation and optical innovation. For more than a decade, KIPON has developed advanced lens adapters, focal reducers, and optical solutions trusted by photographers, cinematographers, and imaging professionals worldwide.
 
Media Contact
KIPON
www.kipon.com