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

[jbcollier at shaw.ca (John Collier)]

Great lens but that is too much money! I have seen 90/2AA lenses going 
for that much (not often mind you). $650 to $750 is more in the ball 
park.

John Collier

On Jul 6, 2004, at 11:37 AM, Jeff Sumner wrote:

> 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.