I have self imposed moratorium as a prevention to spending even my lunch money on lenses... this was back in July when I was full of optimism. I don't have to say I have struggled ever since. I was thinking of getting DA21 to replace my "unwanted child" Sigma 24/2.8 AF. And I was planning to sell DA*50-135 to cover this purchase (this would still keep me in the plus, and number of my lenses wouldn't have changed... i.e. moratorium would "kind of" last
).
But ever since I sold my SMC 400/5.6 to raise funds for Sigma 100-300 (which had faulty AF and was traded for Tammy 70-200/2.8 which broke down and was traded for DA*) I missed nice long option in my line up.
Yesterday I was foolish enough to browse pages of local London used equipment dealers. And in one shop I struck gold.
SMC-Pentax FA* 300/4.5 ED (IF).... asking price £549.
Today morning I was on the bus and tube and feet to get there as soon as they open. The lens is in great shape and after quick test, the deal went down. I sold the DA* in another shop (taking a loss and not small) and I still have some bucks to cough up, but I spent all afternoon in Regent's park and oh boys (and girls) is the FA* worth it. It really seems I'll be loving it a lot.
And to add insult to injury I think I'll pull the trigger again on another massive purchase £20 Helios 44 + M42>PK adapter
some sample shots from FA* will come later...
I just thought I'll share this moment with you
BR
Peter
PS: if anybody's interested the shop still lists FA*s 28-70 & 80-200 for £599 and £799 respectively. They both seem in great shape.