DSLRUsers.com

Hi - I've been tossing up for some time about getting a Nikon 70-200/2.8 (either VRI or VRII - I'd probably prefer the VRII but if the price on a VRI was good enough...)

I'd be using it on my D7000 (crop) for now but I guess possibly moving to full frame one day - who knows... I also already own a TC-14e II (which I can currently use with exactly zero of my existing lenses )

I'm thinking of getting one second hand or maybe even getting one grey (e.g. you can get them (VRII) for about $2100 + delivery + customs? online at the moment or $2500 walk into DDP) - so I was just wondering what people thought would be a good/fair price for each version (VR and VRII) second hand - e.g. what would be a fair break even price where if I paid less I'd be getting a bargain and if I paid more I'd be paying too much (obviously age, lens condition, remaining warranty might come into play).

and of course if anyone has one they'd be interesting in offering me...

I have the VR1 version which I purchased second hand off eBay about 12 months ago for $1600. It was, and still is, in immaculate condition (no, it's not for sale). I love it and it performs wonderfully on my D90. By all accounts the VR1 version is not quite as good on a FX body, the VRII is the better option.

I would guess that $1400- $1800 would be the going rate for a used VR1 version in good to excellent condition.

I have a VRI that I have used both on DX and on film. Stunning lens, and from the time I have used it on D700/D3 it has performed well enough for no one to notice the weaknesses of this lens on FX. This is however a lens I both love and loathe though. It simply does not see enough use for me to justify keeping it (along with my 24-70) but whenever I do use it I decide again that I cannot part with it. I love the quality, but loathe the size and weight.....

I have the VRII and all I can say is that it is simply flawless on crop. From what I have read, it is pretty close to flawless on FX as well, but cannot speak to that.
Like Cameron, I don't really use it enough to justify its existence, but the times I do use it mean I will not part with it.
I bought it with one on on a possible future with a FX body. Without that in the back of my mind, I am sure the VRI would be more than good enough.

I cannot comment on pricing, but I suspect it is one of those lenses that will hold its value, so price is really irrelevant, as long as you can afford it, as you will be able to recoup its price into the future. I cannot see very many of these beauties hitting the second hand market. There will only be the odd "I am sick of Nikon" seller and a few worn out ex-journo ones, and that' all.

I purchased the VR 11 version recently. It replaced the Sigma version that I had for about 5yrs. While my Sigma was a good one the new Nikon is fantastic . It is such an improvement that I can hardly believe the difference.

Jeff

I am selling my VR1 if anyone is interested.
Shoot me a pm.
I just don't use it anymore. Great lens but now redundant to my needs.

Rodney, I think you are about to develop some new muscles in your left hand...

surenj wrote:Rodney, I think you are about to develop some new muscles in your left hand...

Well I'm certainly hoping so - although this is going to require a new camera bag as well - sigh...

I checked out some of the Kata's (Bug & Bumblebee) with Cameron and Marcus earlier today

Remorhaz wrote:this is going to require a new camera bag as well

Perhaps also a new dry cabinet... Good luck with your buy.

surenj wrote:

Remorhaz wrote:this is going to require a new camera bag as well

Perhaps also a new dry cabinet... Good luck with your buy.

 LOL see Thread Here

I've got the VR I version and it is in excellent condition. I use it on my D7000 and D700 and certainly haven't had any issues with either. It is a great lens. I am considering upgrading to the VR II but probably won't be for 1-2 months. So if you haven't picked up one by then, shoot me a PM and I'll let you know if I'm upgrading.

For a cropped sensor camera there is not meant to be much difference in the quality that most people would notice. It's when you got to full-frame that you start noticing more. And you get the latest version of VR II and Nano crystal.

Reason I will be selling is due to going to the higher resolution cameras, eg D800 when it gets released.

cheers,

André