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10-30-2014, 06:59 PM   #1
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Made in Japan vs Made In Vietnam

Is there really any difference between Pentax Limited lenses made in Japan and those assembled in Vietnam. I just purchased a 77MM f 1.8 which is stamped with the assembled in Vietnam label. At the same time the same lens, but with the made in Japan label was selling for about $50 more. Plus shipping was $19 while the made in Vietnam shipping was only $9. I'm wondering if I made the right decision ?

10-30-2014, 07:06 PM   #2
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The MIJ version just has more pixie dust (plus the MIJ stamp). That's all

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10-30-2014, 07:08 PM   #3
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Is AIV really any worse than MIJ?

There are a few more posts on here about AIV vs MIJ lenses. Run a search and you'll find them.
10-30-2014, 07:13 PM - 1 Like   #4
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QuoteOriginally posted by hjoseph7 Quote
Is there really any difference between Pentax Limited lenses made in Japan and those assembled in Vietnam.
Nope, it is status.

10-30-2014, 07:20 PM   #5
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Status. That's why I purchased a MIJ FA 31....I'll be able to get $4,000 more for it when I sell it over AIV

10-30-2014, 07:23 PM   #6
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QuoteOriginally posted by Adam Quote
The MIJ version just has more pixie dust (plus the MIJ stamp). That's all
You shouldn't even say that, Adam.
Now everyone will think that the limited's MIJ are better than those AIV ... !

---------- Post added 10-30-14 at 10:23 PM ----------

QuoteOriginally posted by SpecialK Quote
Nope, it is status.
Agreed !

---------- Post added 10-30-14 at 10:24 PM ----------

QuoteOriginally posted by Driline Quote
Status. That's why I purchased a MIJ FA 31....I'll be able to get $4,000 more for it when I sell it over AIV

You tell me when this happens ...
10-30-2014, 11:10 PM - 1 Like   #7
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The difference is only of interest for collectors who never actually use the lenses for their intended purpose, for everyone else there is no functional difference in optical quality*.

*though I have heard QC has been rather lax with the AIV versions.

10-31-2014, 01:24 AM - 1 Like   #8
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All I know is that my AIV FA 43 is the best lens I have ever owned.
10-31-2014, 04:26 AM   #9
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QuoteOriginally posted by Digitalis Quote
The difference is only of interest for collectors who never actually use the lenses for their intended purpose, for everyone else there is no functional difference in optical quality*.
Spot on.
10-31-2014, 11:26 AM   #10
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QuoteOriginally posted by kharry2012 Quote
All I know is that my AIV FA 43 is the best lens I have ever owned.
QuoteOriginally posted by jawsy Quote
Spot on.
That and the 31mmLtd. My 43Ltd is also AIV and I don't see what more could a MIJ-type do.

JP
10-31-2014, 07:14 PM - 1 Like   #11
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QuoteOriginally posted by jpzk Quote
That and the 31mmLtd. My 43Ltd is also AIV and I don't see what more could a MIJ-type do.

JP
My MIJ-type makes me coffee in the morning. Can your AIV do that? No, I think not.
10-31-2014, 07:24 PM   #12
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Shots fired

QuoteOriginally posted by Driline Quote
My MIJ-type makes me coffee in the morning. Can your AIV do that? No, I think not.
Uh oh. It looks like the whole tournament's gonna have to be redone so the MIJs and AIVs can compete as distinct entities.
10-31-2014, 07:43 PM   #13
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The Pixies don't seem to mind either way!
11-01-2014, 10:26 AM   #14
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QuoteOriginally posted by Driline Quote
My MIJ-type makes me coffee in the morning. Can your AIV do that? No, I think not.
Mine makes croissants with café latté !
11-01-2014, 10:49 AM   #15
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nope, no difference.
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