Originally posted by interested_observer In that this is a replacement copy for the original - with the same problem, I would write to Zeiss directly and ask them if they could help out with an explanation. The lens is expensive, and with Zeiss' reputation for build, lens quality, and design - I would have to think that its not fungus and thus some sort of cleaning residue. If that is the case, then there is a whole set of questions concerning quality control of the build process and what is acceptable for the final inspection, etc.
Even if it does not currently affect the IQ, what does it do to the future resale value - rather than any appreciation, might you have to take some level of a price reduction (a letter of explanation on Zeiss letterhead would go a long way here). Also, a sample of 2 out of 2 - does a trend make.
A letter or email is certainly in order here.....
Thanks for you advice, interested_observer.
Yes, indeed it is a replacement copy. I had already contacted Zeiss with regard to the problem on the first copy and a very helpful and sincere Zeiss representative had advised me to send it in for cleaning or replacement by the dealer (B&H). I was having high hopes to acquire a good copy for this replacement but realised it's plagued with exactly the same problem! I had contacted both Zeiss and B&H and expecting a reply on the next couple of working days.
I was willing to just live with it but you are right too. For a lens that is hefty in price and expected to last a life-time, I shouldn't be making compromises here. Ha. For whatever the spots may be, there's two possibilities: 1) either this is a wide-spread issue (based on the serial numbers) or 2) something went wrong in B&H's warehouse. I was leaning towards 1) initially but I have a strong feeling with 2) now since I couldn't quite find similar problems for this lens elsewhere. I mean, there would have been some hoo-ha if it were indeed a wide spread problem and this lens isn't exactly new too.
I am pretty tired trying to be a investigator to be frank actually. My final option is to try buying from another dealer and see how it goes. It's rather unfortunate here for me as trying to rectify the issue always incur some extra shipping, taxation, frustrations and delays. >: