Re: Realist Custom values

[P3D Dr. George A. Themelis <fj834@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Harry Poster writes:

>Klaas...doesn't matter what the price is in McKeowns, the regular F2.8's
>sell at about $250-$350 in the states...

Hmmm, Harry, when was the last time that you sold a 2.8 for $250 ???
You advertise in Shutterbug that you buy those at $250.  They usually sell
for $350 or more...

>The price of a great, real Custom is probably $750-$1,000...

The next question to ask is if the 2.8 and Custom are so much better than
the 3.5 to justify the price premium.

My opinion has always been that a *good* $100-$150 3.5 (some are better 
than others) used in typical apertures of f8 to f11, gives results that are
indistinquishable than the more expensive 2.8 and Custom.  The 3.5 is one
of the best bets for the beginner and in many cases will serve him/her for
a lifetime.

Also, I believe that far more important than the alledged optical
sharpness, etc. is the mechanical condition... I personally have found
later models to be more reliable both mechanically and optically.  Many
users are struggling with a variety of problems in their favorite Realist
cameras.  Sending them to Zak to fix will save a lot of frustration.

George Themelis, at present proud owner and user of a Realist 2.8... but
got started with 3.5's and saw no reason to "advance" to a 2.8 until he was
given a good deal in one...


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