Originally Posted by GeneV 
On a slightly off-topic note, I think that all of these off-brand but decently performing 135mm lenses are getting more popular (and costly) with the smaller digital sensor. I may be in the minority, but I never had much use for a 135mm on film. However, on aps-c, its FOV is close to the 200mm I used for 30+ years on film. It's like I have the fast 200 I could never afford.
To the original topic, the M-series 135mm at under $200 and the SMC Tak at a bit more are still a screaming bargain to me, even if they cost more than the dirt cheap Sears or other off-brand 135s. The M-series 200mm/f4 is a ridiculous bargain at the $50-100 you find on Ebay.
I agree with you thoughts on the popularity and cost of the 135mm lenses. The prices always seem to be going up on ebay and even craigslist. I have two old 135mm lenses, and I love having a relatively cheap and lightweight 200mm equivalent.
I just got the Tair 11-A, and I think it's an incredible lens, but like others have said, it's hard to go wrong with any older 135mm. I've seen that lens go for as much as $200, yet I know someone who got one for 10 bucks. I think the key is to always have your eyes peeled for MF lenses, and eventually you'll find a steal.
