Nikon Zoom

[gbeal]

I have a Nikkor AF80-200ED f2.8, "D" series zoom which I am selling. If you own a Nikon camera, this is THE lens.
Maintains it's fast f2.8 aperture throughout the whole zoom range.
ED glass makes it as sharp as a tack.
Complete with lens hood, and lens case, plus front rear caps.
I have used it a few times on the D100, but have recently returned to the dark side with a Contax (film, yeah real film) camera.
This, although auto focus, will fit most Nikon bodies, and I believe also Canon EOS, via an adaptor.
Open to offers, try me at g.beal@clear.net.nz
Thanks,
Gary

[Striker]

Can I start the bidding even though its not an auction.

Wells its only a F2.8 with 80-300 zoom making it worth approx $2000

I start with $50 + a free Cappacino voucher.

[gbeal]

Thanks Tony, I'll think on this first bid, and hope like heck there are others. A shame you are a Canon user as well.
Gary

[Jonathan]

I would've made a good offer a few months ago but I got a 180mm ED since then. Bad timing Gary! :doh:

[gbeal]

Hi Jonathon,
never mind, there is always Strikers overwhelming offer.
The ED180 is a very good lens, and really the only advantage of the 80-200 is the ability to "juggle" the in between focal lengths to fine tune composition. Both are very well thought of for correction and sharpness.
Someone will want it, so don't feel bad.
Gary

[mch62]

Jonathan how do you find the 180mm ed Nikon.
I am toying with the idea of using one with a SAC 10 Astro camera via a steve moggs adapter.
There popular with astronomers as well as the 300mm f4.
There are some good sub $1000 prices for these on the web
I have the ed 80 but want a bit wider field for comets ect ect.
Gary how many elements does the zoom have, as that can get excessive with zooms over a prime telephoto?
Could be interested.
Got any pics from the lens

Mark

[gbeal]

Hi Mark,
For sure the 180 "May" have the slight edge, maybe.
But the 80-200 is reknown for it's sharpness, and given your intentions, the shorter end may see some use as well.
Didn't have a clue as to the elements etc, so did a quick search.
Try http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/80200.htm
It appears 16 elements/11 groups.
Yep, that is more than a prime, but as the review seems to indicate the quality is there, plus the convenience.
Only had the one decent night with it, and so only one lonley image. I had one many years ago as well, and I got some lovely conjunction shots with it.
Regards,
Gary

[Jonathan]

Mark,
The 180ED is a very good lens. I haven't really done any serious astro work with it yet but I've used it on a couple of rolls of film for terrestrial photos. I've got a cheapish Nikon 70-300mm and the 180ED absolutely kills it for quality. I'll post some photo's in the photography section over the weekend. I'd think Gary's lens would be just as good and well worth buying. If your after some info I think it's this one: http://www.dirtcheapcameras.com.au/store/product.asp?idProduct=123

[Striker]

Gary...I just wanted to make sure that the $50 bid I have given you included postage and the empty self addresed stamped envelope from you so I can send you your Capuccino voucher.....lol

If the dollar keeps falling I will have to remove my bid...sorry.

[gbeal]

Thats what I like about you Tony, you always get a smile, and in today's climate this is as important as making money, perhaps more.
Jonathan.
Thank you for the plug, and the link, it makes the price I had in mind more than acceptable. I have had a Nikkor 70-300, and while it is OK for average use, I agree it falls short. The 80-200 is in a league well above that.
Your link also makes my thoughts of selling the D100 (and standard zoom) more likely as well.
Gary

[mch62]

That price is a bit rich for my taste and will stick to the 180mm me thinks.
Actually that dirt cheap camerás is not so dirt cheap.
They list the 180mm at $1700 Aus the best US price so far I have found is $669 new.

[gbeal]

What price Mark, I haven't gone as far as putting a price on the lens (or camera).
The new price is OK, just too much for me as well.
Gary

[Striker]

OMG that lens is expensive.....I'm starting to think my $50 bid is just a little cheap......sorry Gary

New bid $55 including postage and forget about the capaccino.

[gbeal]

Oh Tony,
what can I say, at least someone else let you into what it really is worth. Still laughing though.

[Jonathan]

Mark - try http://www.cameraaction.com.au/ they're usually a bit cheaper than dirt cheap cameras. I've bought gear from both without a problem. If Camera Action don't list what you want email them, they're usually quick to reply, but I doubt anyone in Australia will be close to the US price though.
Gary - what would you replace the D100 with? a D2X maybe??? :eyepop:

[gbeal]

Not sure yet Jonathan. I may just use film, with the Contax. I find the next step easier after selling the existing gear. But yes, the D2X is a possibility.