Pentax SMC DA* 16-50mm f/2.8 ED AL IF - is it really worth 1000 USD?

[John Sessoms]

From: "Jens Bladt"

> Hello list
> I just sold a whole bunch of photographs.
> And my second Tokina AT-X 2.6-2.8 28-70mm Pro II has got an impact damage.
> It won't focus at infinity at 28mm anymore.
> Should I buy a DA* 16-50mm? Is it really worh the appr. 1000 USD most
> dealers charge?
> Any experiences or comments are welcome.
> Regards

Can't answer your primary question, but I recommend contacting Tokina 
regarding repair to your lens. My experience in that regard was *VERY* 
positive.

I have the AT-X Pro 28-70 f/2.8 [second hand from KEH] and dropped it 
onto a concrete floor from waist height just before I deployed to Iraq 
in 2004. Damaged the focus and zoom mechanisms.

I contacted Tokina via email to see if they would repair it and if they 
could ship it to an APO address. They told me they could.

I sent a letter along with the lens explaining that:
1. I purchased it used
2. The damage was due to my own negligence
3. They would have to contact me by email so I could arrange payment for 
the repair before they sent it back.

The next thing I heard from them was 3 - 4 months later when the lens 
arrived in Iraq, repaired under warranty.

It was good as new, which with this lens, is pretty damn good.

Congratulations on your sale.