[Leica] oem lens generalizations

["emu@aloha.com" <emu@aloha.com>]

I'd be leery of any generalization about the quality of Vivitar lenses.
Vivitar is a marketing name, not a manufacturer.

A number of Japanese manufacturers have made Vivitar lenses. Some are among
the very best. They once sold a Vivitar Series 1 90-180mm macro zoom (real
macro, not the usual cheapie with semi-closeup capability commonly marketed
as "macro zoom') that was one of the best macro lenses, and best zooms, of
all time. Wish I had one.

I have a 1990-vintage Vivitar Series 1 macro 105mm/f2.5 that is very
impressive, and I give it all the care I give Leica lenses. Fine as it is,
it cost under $300, far less than the equivalent Nikon product.

 On the other hand, I have a Vivitar 19mm/f3.8 that sells new for around
$100 and is only as good as you would expect a $100 ultra-wide to be. And I
have a cheap Vivitar 70-280mm autofocus zoom that also is nothing to write
home about. I own these pedestrian lenses so I can use them in rain,
blowing sand and ocean spray without high anxiety. If I were a pro, or
rich, I suppose I would use "good" lenses in such situations -- and be able
to afford frequent repair or replacement. But these I expect to throw away
when the mounts wear out after a few years of use in harsh environments.

Years ago, Vivitar developed a sub-brand they called "Series 1." Originally
it was reserved for their best optics. Some people who keep an eye on these
things say it's more of a marketing gimmick now.

Ernest Murphy