Hi all,
I just thought I'd share my recent experience with trying to get my Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 HSM II lens serviced at Gentec, the Sigma service centre for Canada.
I've used Gentec previously when I got my Sigma 50-150mm f/2.8 firmware updated, roughly three years ago. At that time, service was prompt and the whole process took around 2 weeks from start to finish. Great!
This time around, however, while trying to get my 70-200mm f/2.8 HSM II lens' firmware updated and the lens mount replaced, things did not go as well.
The whole processes took seven months and the lens did not get it's firmware updated nor its lens mount replaced.
Gentec was unable to source parts for the replacement K mount plate (the one with the narrower bevelled edge which won't scratch the camera's paint).
This, by itself, is not the end of the world since the lens still mounts.
The bigger issue is that Gentec claims that they are no longer able to update the firmware on this lens. Instead of flashing new firmware, they replaced the 'chip' with another they had in stock; however, this new chip still had the old firmware. (EXIF Data still reads as Sigma lens "8 255" not the newer "8 16").
Apparently, replacing the chipset was how this specific lens got its firmware updates in the past. Since these parts are no longer being manufactured, firmware updates are no longer offered. As I now only own cameras made post 2016, this lens is more or less a paperweight.
This seems to be rather lousy service from Sigma for a $2000+ lens (Canadian dollars) that, for my copy at least, is only ten years old and carried a 7 year warranty.
While your mileage may vary, it may be worth considering the following when purchasing Sigma products for Pentax in the future; they may come with a rather short shelf life.
All the best!
-Gerb
Last edited by Gerbermiester; 01-28-2021 at 09:04 PM.