The skateboarding world is known for its resistance to change, a trait particularly evident in the realm of camera equipment. Many skate videographers still swear by the Panasonic HPX170, a camera released back in 2008. This devotion has created a fierce competition for the Century Optics Xtreme Fisheye lens, a favorite among HPX users. These lenses, once relatively affordable, have become incredibly scarce and now command prices upwards of $10,000 online, making them inaccessible to many.
This scarcity and high cost of the Xtreme Fisheye has led to a unique situation where a damaged lens, once deemed unusable, is now a hot commodity. Enter Trevor Dare, a filmmaker who has taken it upon himself to refurbish these prized lenses. In this interview, we delve into the world of the Xtreme Fisheye, explore its enduring popularity, and uncover the secrets of lens restoration.
A fisheye lens with a skateboard reflection
What exactly is an Xtreme Fisheye?
According to Trevor, “It’s like a ginormous target for skateboards to hit.” Joking aside, he explains, “It’s just a fisheye that is fitted for 16:9 video.” This specific design makes it ideal for capturing the wide, immersive angles favored in skateboarding videos.
Who made the Xtreme Fisheye so popular?
Trevor credits Bill Strobeck and Greg Hunt with popularizing the lens. These influential filmmakers showcased the unique perspective and aesthetic achievable with the Xtreme, driving up its desirability among the skateboarding community.
Why is the Xtreme Fisheye so highly regarded?
The Xtreme’s appeal lies in its perfect compatibility with the 16:9 aspect ratio that became standard during the shift to HD video. Trevor emphasizes that it wasn’t initially coveted, rather it gained popularity after filmmakers with significant influence demonstrated its potential. As he puts it, “I don’t think it was coveted at first – it took someone that had the credibility to make something great before it started being coveted by others.” He also believes that a similar shift will occur in the future with new equipment, “Just waiting on the right person to lead it.”
Who’s the best fisheye filmer today?
Trevor points to Sirus Gahan, highlighting his exceptional work with the lens.
Why are Xtreme Fisheye lenses so expensive today?
Trevor recalls buying his first Xtreme Fisheye for $2699 back in 2011, displaying a receipt as proof. He notes that prices jumped to around $4,000-$6,000 after production of the lens was discontinued, with current prices reaching $10,000 or more. This significant price increase can be attributed to the combination of limited supply and high demand, fueled by “people got greedy once they stopped the production of the lens.”
How many mint condition Xtreme Fisheyes are left?
Trevor estimates there are likely fewer than 50 mint condition lenses still in existence. He explains that many are scratched or damaged but are still usable with some care and maintenance. This is where his lens refurbishment expertise comes into play.
A close up of a refurbished fisheye lens element
How did you start refurbishing Xtreme Fisheyes?
The idea sparked when a friend, Spud, suggested repairing a scratched lens Trevor had been using as an ashtray. Trevor took it upon himself to experiment and learn the process, stating, “It was already completely fucked. I was like, ‘If anything happens, whatever, it’s been sitting on my desk since 2015.'”
Can you explain the refurbishing process?
While Trevor keeps the exact process a secret, to avoid people causing damage to their own lenses, he emphasizes, “Yeah, definitely don’t try it at home unless you are doing your own research.” He highlights the “learning curve” involved, revealing that the first two attempts were definitely learning experiences.
How long does it take to refurbish a lens?
The process is time-consuming, taking around eight to ten hours due to the delicate nature of the glass. It also depends on the condition of the lens, with more damaged lenses requiring more time and care. “It’s all hands-on. The only part that I don’t have to be present for is when it’s cooling down.” Some lenses, like the one seen in Ryan Lee’s Spitfire edit, can take up to a week of work to refurbish.
A skateboard clip using a fisheye lens
How much do you charge for lens restoration?
Trevor bases his pricing on the cost of recoating and repainting processes at a professional facility. He admits that the polishing process is stressful and labor-intensive.
Do you offer discounts to friends?
Trevor explains that he has only given one discount, which was for a friend who provided two additional lenses for restoration.
What’s your workspace like?
Currently, Trevor’s workspace is a cabinet for organization and his kitchen counter. He jokes about making eggs next to the lenses, revealing a bit of humor in his meticulous process.
Have you ever rejected a lens restoration job?
Trevor explains that he would reject a lens if it was chipped or pitted in a way that could lead to cracking during the process, prioritizing the preservation of the lens above everything else. He did turn down one job due to a truck bolt-sized hole.
A skateboarder doing a trick with a fisheye lens view
Does the restoration affect image quality?
Trevor states that he has not observed any negative impact on image quality, such as distortion, ensuring that the restored lenses perform as well as new ones. “I have not seen any sort of image quality go down or any sort of weird distortion or anything like that.”
Have you ever encountered a fake Xtreme Fisheye?
Trevor admits to seeing differences in the back painting of some lenses, with some appearing lighter or darker. He doesn’t know if this was due to Century Optics using different paints over time.
Do you believe Century Optics might reissue the lens?
Trevor has heard of people trying to raise funds to convince Century to reissue the Xtreme Fisheye, but he is not sure how far along those efforts are. He thinks a re-issue may happen eventually.
Would you buy a reissued lens?
Trevor says it would depend on the price, explaining that he may prefer to buy scratched lenses at a lower cost and restore them himself.
Do you see yourself moving to a new camera or fisheye?
While Trevor acknowledges a shift may occur, he says, “until that happens I’m going to continue to use the Xtreme and the HPX.” He feels that this setup will remain relevant for the foreseeable future.
Why is this work important to you?
Trevor’s passion is clear as he explains, “It helps the people out who have a scratched lens and can’t afford a new mint one.”
What would you call your company if you went public?
He jokingly suggests, “The Fishy Fixer,” showing his casual and humorous approach to his work.
What would be your tagline if you had a van?
He answers with, “You know Tadashi? Those things are great, but I was thinking, ‘Tadashi who? Let me polish it brand new!'” After being offered, “If your lens has wear, better call Dare!” He states, “Damn, that one’s pretty good.”
Conclusion
Trevor Dare’s dedication to preserving the Century Optics Xtreme Fisheye lens highlights the enduring love for this iconic piece of equipment within the skateboarding community. His work not only ensures that valuable lenses remain usable but also provides a more affordable option for filmmakers who cannot afford a brand new mint lens. His passion and commitment exemplify the creative spirit that drives the skateboarding world.
Interview by: Greg Navarro
Header by: Michael Giurato
Intro by: Ben Komins
