Since we're now discussing the Sigma... Roger at Lensrentals has some thoughts on why there is a new version so quickly after the first was released:
"If you noticed, Sigma released a new version of the 120-300 f/2.8 OS just over a year after the original version. The optical diagram is exactly the same but I suspect we’ll see some more robust internal components in the new version. They’ve also announced new quality control measures at their manufacturing plant. Given the improvements Sigma has made in their repair service, I suspect they’re serious about improving quality."
Jim, I am awaiting to hear from you how the eBay transaction worked out. I definitely saw that $2399 price but want to see how much duty (if any) it cost you. I have bought several items from China without tax but the most expensive so far has been a Benro for $350.
It arrived today. Very quick! I bought it on eBay last Tuesday, 9 Oct. It was shipped from Hong Kong last Wednesday 10 Oct. and it arrived in Dartmouth NS today, Monday 15 Oct, five days later. The original purchase price was $2250, with free shipping. The declared value was $1130 (I didn't ask for this). I paid a total of $177.39 at time of delivery for sales tax and a $10 handling fee. Shipping was DHL Express.
