This is a cautionary tale Michael. Observing how my shooting changes from time to time, I simply don't assume that since I'm not using a lens at the moment I should sell it. Needless to say, I've never had seller's remorse. Especially with these lenses that are so well made, they will surely last my lifetime and doubtless increase in value. I watch folks sell lenses and then lament their decision as you have while shopping in the current market with its ever higher prices I understand that at times financial circumstances dictate changes to our kit, but if not forced to sell I wouldn't dream of selling, unless of course, as has happened a few times, I come across a pristine copy of a lens I love. Then I'll upgrade and sell the earlier edition.
Good luck sorting this out. As you said, patience is called for. With time you'll find the lens at a price you feel comfortable paying.
I took my 28 f/2.8 AI-S for a walk this morning attached to my D800E as I'm thinking of selling it. I've downsized these pics to 1024mp max to post here so they're nowhere as sharp or detailed as the originals are on my screen.
My copy of this lens is perfect and I don't think it was even used before I bought it about three years ago. I'm not sure whether to sell it or not. My take is that it's an amazing lens close up but just a very good lens at some distance.
I snagged mine on ebay for $179. I consider myself blessed to have gotten it for that price point. A few months ago I won an auction for $210 and the guy refused to sell it to me stating that it's worth way more. If you do scour through ebay you can find the right price.
huddy wrote: ...keep searching patiently. The 28/2.8 AI-S is one of the jewel's in Nikon's history of lenses for a number of reasons...
Find a sample/version with green coating. Don't remember what serial numbers correspond to it, but I am sure you may easily find it.
This lens is fantastic for close range shots. 28mm Zeiss, Leica at 1-2 meters? - Nikkor 28/2.8 AI-s may surprise you!
A new 28 f/2.8 AI-S lens from B&H sells for $539.95 (without the HN-2 lens hood). Good value when you consider what many plastic fantastic prosumer lenses sell for.
The problem is that many people don't understand MF and just how easy it is to focus a MF lens. The AF confirmation makes it stupidly easy on this lens in particular.
I hate to say it but this has become my go to landscape lens. I don't like using UWA lenses and ended up selling my 16-35 after I got the 28.
Sharpness the lens can't be faulted.
It's size is extraordinarily compact for what it provides.
