[Leica] Elmarit vs. Anything Cheaper, or is this a good buy?

[jdos2 at mindspring.com (Jeff Sumner)]

I?ve the opportunity to buy a nearly unused late model (last couple of
years) 90mm Elmarit for about $950. The lens is in nearly new shape.

Here?s the rub. I?m used to the focal length by way of the J-9 on a Contax.
I?ve only a 50mm and 35mm for my M-6, and I?d like to get a longer lens
before I go on vacation.

If the lens is in the almost completely unused condition, would many on the
group pay $950 for a black Elmarit based on the extraordinary optical
performance? To be honest, I?m a bit strapped for the purchase of the M-6. I
don?t mind getting older lenses if they?ll perform reasonably for the money
(and am considering just going to a Hektor for the tight shots for the
price!)

I?m not going to monkey with a J-9 LTM lens, I?ve heard too many nightmares
with focusing and other issues.

JD

(or should I have searched the archives?)