Question concerning choice of lenses (spec. non OEM) ====

[Steve (SW PA)]

Over the years I have noticed a good many photographers choose lenses that are produced by someone other than the maker of the camera they own ( IE. Sigma lens & Nikon camera, etc.) I have run Nikon 35 mm SLR's for years, always opting for Nikon/Nikkor optics.

I have always had superb results, but does someone know something I don't? My only other than original lens purchase was a Tokina ATX 35-105 ( supposedly Pro quality) A1S for my Nikon FA, and it simply does not provide the sharpness my Niko/Nikkor 35-105 A1 gives me on my Nikon FE.

Yet I see many of you using Sigma lenses on your expensive Nikon & Canon digital SLR's.

???????

 

[RM]

Quality of workmanship and materials used in after market lenses have greatly improved over the years. When did you buy your Tokina?

Sigma and Tamron are considered to be tops in the aftermarket category for lenses.


RM

 

[Steve (SW PA)]

I bought the Tokina about 11-12 years ago RM. Aprx. 1993-1995.

To me, Tamron was too much hassle, with the adapter & all.

I suspect my motive at the time of purchase of the Tokina ( save a few bucks), is the most common reason to purchase non OEM lenses.

I know I can use my old Nikon A1 on the Nikon FA, but not to full functionallity, if you catch my drift.

Also, I want to sell my Nikon FE with all lenses, motor drive, Nikon SB-10 flash, etc., to buy a Nikon D-70. All Nikon A & Nikon A1 lenses will go with it.

I want to keep my Nikon FA & all A1S lenses other than the Tokina, even though I know 33mm film cameras are becoming a thing of the past. I am a Retro Man & hang on to the past -- Hell, I drive a 1978 Trans Am & I am 50 num-num years old! :lol

 

[Steve (SW PA)]

So much for editing!



35mm camera - not 33mm -

 

[RM]

Ahhhhhh, the OLD Tamron with the adapter ring......
Hell man, you are a throw back......

Technologies are much better now in lense construction.

I sold all my 35mm film cameras this past year. 2 Nikon F5's and a F100.
I kept the Mamiya 654's medium format but moth balled them away.

The Nikon D2X convinced me that digital was finally here for my use.


RM

 

[Richard@BackwoodsDetectors]

Hoya supplys a lot of the glass for these very same companys....RichardnTn

 

[Steve (SW PA)]

Throw Back??

I'll have you know I resemble ---- er ---- Resent --- that remark!

Seriously, thanks for the input Rick, as insulting as it may be --

 

[Steve (SW PA)]

Thanks Richard! Now I am truly educated! I never knew that fact!

Some things are beginning to make sense now!

 

[John in Florida]

Included in my setup were a Tamron Adaptall 2 70-210 and a Nikon 80-200 F4.5.

I performed many tests with these lenses and in every case the Nikon came out way ahead in terms of sharpness and contrast. These tests were performed on a Canon EOS Digital using an adaptor.

It's still my belief that the *name brand* lenses, in general, are better in terms of build, durability, and glass quality. However, some third party lenses have proven to be the equal of name brand lenses so it's a question now of individual comparisons.

I'm going to be purchasing a new system this year and the Sigma 50-500 'Bigma' lens is going to be on the top of my list. It seems to be the sharpest third party big lens ever!

 

[Richard@BackwoodsDetectors]

afford the 50-500mm like Tom's, I'd go for it...very shape and contrasty...Richardntn

 

[Steve (SW PA)]

Thanks John, That was always my take on the aftermarket lenses years ago. I guess everything changes, though.

Years ago I could not understand buying a great camera, then getting a cheap lens. The lens is usually the most important consideration in my estimation. The top camera makers all have good equipment, but features vary, and to me it becomes a matter of preference in that regards, but skimping on a lens purchase was a no-no.

I will be getting a Nikon D70 or D100 this year, but think I might be wiser to keep my Nikon manual focus A1S lenses & sacrifice a few of the camera's features rather than through a possibly inferior lens on it because I ran out of funds.

I must say the results posted here using the Sigma "Bigma" lens are quite impressive, however ----