Nikon_80_200

While in London yesterday I called into Nicholas Camera in Camden looking for my ultimate portrait lens – a mid zoom to cover the 70-200 or 80-200 range. Having heard rumours (and seen the appropriate prices!) that the Nikkor 70-200 f/2.8 VR has foibles when used on full frame I’d delved a bit further into the 80-200 f/2.8 model.

Discontinued almost a couple of years ago, the 80-200 is the predecessor of the current 70-200. They seem to be incredibly hard to find, either on auction sites or in second hand listings. The lens reputation is good as well, amongst others Ken Rockwell writes a glowing report.

Scanning through Amatuer Photographer like you do, I’d spotted a range of these lenses offered at Nicholas, and a glance at their website revealed the prices started at £645. Compared to over £1200 for the new 70-200 (although Mifusds have a used model currently for £1149) it seemed like a bargain!

Sadly the lens wasn’t in quite as good condition as I’d hoped – although testing the lens on a D100 showed the focussing to be pretty amazing. I was tempted, but the price in the store was a bit different to the price elsewhere – it had gone up to £995! These exchange rates are a killer!

So what now? I’m keeping an eye out for the 80-200 AF-D lens to test, the optics are reported to be pretty close to the AF-S without the speed of the autofocus. Rumours abound of a new version of the 70-200 which might drive down prices too.  

Reminder to self – patience is a virtue!