Originally posted by sft Hehe, quit teasing Richard
Well actually not interested in a new camera but since you do seem to have good relations with Pentax UK can you if possible get some info on a product we have known about for a while now - the DA*60-250? I know you're itching for this lens just like I am but what is going on? Is it still scehduled for late December release, is it Spring 08 now? Is it "God Forbid" on hold like the 645D, etc? Would greatly appreciate the info.
I've been told, quite specifically, that the 60-250 is "next" on the DA* releases. The 200 & 300 will also follow very shortly afterwards. The 60-250 was put first as it was deemed the "most next wanted". It has definitely not been shelved, nor any others on the roadmap (apart from the 645D + lens, which is "on hold" at this time). I was told to realistically expect the first deliveries in January 2008 although December 07 is the target date (I put in the years for the cynics!).
The delays have been purely down to stabilising the supply and manufacturig issues in making the first two DA*'s, especially the 16-50, the engineering team has been fully occupied with resolving these issues and shortage of engineers (throughout the industry) is a major factor here, in fact, the addition of the 18-250 was a recent (post Hoya) initiative to get a quality travel zoom on the stocks without affecting the program and it looks as though it's been generally well accepted as there was in no way, any other route open. It should be noted that the Pentax pricing is currently similar to the Tamron which should further please the critical. I shall be getting one as my general purpose P&S travel lens, it will replace my FA 28-105/3.2-4.5 with the added bonus of more reach at either end.
I hope that there will be further OEM projects, such as TC's and other specialised and/or desireable lenses to further expand the range. I have already made some suggestions along these lines ("Pentax" chipped TC's from Kenko and an SDM version of the 200-500 and 180mm macro from Tamron).
As a footnote, new bodies will always be a factor in the overall strategy as they are the vehicle for further lens sales and cannot be put off or delayed. They are the main deciding factor for most peoples initial decision to buy into the brand.
You will be
very pleased with what Pentax are doing body wise with the next models. Even if you don't get one yourself, even Pentax realise that many find their existing body(s) fits their needs, but it will show that they have been, and still are, listening.