I'm looking for a cheaper alternative to the 135L as I put together a smaller, and lower cost system than my 1ds2 and myriad of alternative lenses for travel where my full kit is not an option.
For wide to normal I plan on one of the OM 21s, and a CZ35-70, and I'm now looking for alternatives to my 135L.
My 1st thought was for the Sonnar 135/2.8 and it's still top of the list, but I wonder if anyone can comment on the performance of the MF version of the Nikon 135/F2 in the F2 - F2.8 range?
These lenses will be paired with a 5d so they need to have good full frame corner performance.
The 135mm f2.8 Sonnar isn't that heavy -- it's just 585g. It's a very nice lens with a built-in lens hood, that is pretty sharp even wide open. The best part is that it can be had very cheaply ($200-250). You won't lose all that much in terms of ultimate sharpness with respect to your 135L, but your gain a bunch of cash in your pocket (and, of course, that wonderful Zeiss look).
Paul, Lotusm50,
Thanks for the suggestions and comments. I'm less worried about weight than cost (value) and size. The aim is for a small kit when travel space is at a premium. For example I'm thinking of a biking/motor trip around northern California/Napa next year and I won't be able to take all my current gear, and on some days it may end up staying in the car.
I don't plan to sell my 135L, 1ds2 or other lenses, but I do want to keep the cost down. I have a 35-70 CZ with a damaged filter ring that I'll use, and until I get an OM 21 I can use my OM 24/2. Aside from being smaller than my 1ds2 the 5d will end up as my backup camera (I don't have one now since I sold an XT).
Yes, the Zeiss Sonnar 135/2.8 is "just" 585g, but the Zuiko is 360g.That makes the Sonnar 225g (about 63%) heavier than the Zuiko. The Zuiko is still built very well, precision in use, and a very good optical performer. The Zuiko is also smaller than the Sonnar (80x61 vs 93x69) - both share a 5 element 4 group design and take 55mm filters.
