Alternatives for dying 200/2 VR1

Krubin
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p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · Alternatives for dying 200/2 VR1

Well, it's not dead yet, but in trying to secure a regular maintenance for my beloved 200mm f/2.0 Nikon VR1 (yes, the older model), my search came up near empty. Nikon no longer services this, and while I was able to find an independent that would look at it, the pricetag would be more than halfway toward some serious new glass. At this point it seems better to drive it into the ground and start to look at alternatives.

Which brings me to this thread. What are the alternatives. I use the 200 for combination of sports, portraits, and performing arts where the extra light makes all the difference, and I'm a sucker for the subject isolation and a nice bokeh. I have the Sigma 105/1.4 Art and a very old 300 2.8 S, but the 200 is my fave.

The thread here comparing the 85/1.2 and Plena is interesting, but I'm worried they may be a little short for my usual purposes. What else should I be looking at? What are your experiences? What are the other 200/2 shooters doing these days?

I look forward to your comments. Thanks!

Sep 04, 2024 at 08:32 PM

armstrong.photos
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p.1 #2 · p.1 #2 · Alternatives for dying 200/2 VR1

Is the VR2 version still serviced? You could look at upgrading?

Otherwise, I'd just keep using it until it dies, and hope there's a new one released before then - that's what I'm going to do with my VR2...

Sep 04, 2024 at 09:25 PM

bernardl
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p.1 #3 · p.1 #3 · Alternatives for dying 200/2 VR1

The Z 135mm f1.8 S is a good alternative.

I own both. I am in the process of selling my mint VR 1.

I believe Nikon will release within 6 months a 100-200mm f2.0 TC… but few agree with my forecast.

Cheers,
Bernard

Sep 04, 2024 at 09:53 PM

Danrdz10103
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p.1 #4 · p.1 #4 · Alternatives for dying 200/2 VR1

I think Matt Granger (?) in YouTube had a nice comparison Plena versus 200mm. But if the 200mm is the type of image you are sure you want, just buy another VR1 or VR2.

Sep 05, 2024 at 07:58 AM

rico
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p.1 #5 · p.1 #5 · Alternatives for dying 200/2 VR1

Krubin wrote:
What are the alternatives...

If the USM mechanism is dying, I understand it can be cleaned, although that might be expensive unless you do it yourself. Taking apart a lens is not everyone's cup of tea.

If I need the 200/2 look—or every last available photon in low-light situations—then my option is the CZ Aposonnar C/Y. Being manual-focus, it will never suffer a motor failure. A Nikkor AI-S would provide similar comfort. However, as a practical matter, I prefer the Nikkors 70-200G and 70-200E for 200mm coverage plus I get AF, VR, image quality, and much lower weight. That extra stop is sooo expensive in every way.

Sep 05, 2024 at 02:04 PM

neoshazam
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p.1 #6 · p.1 #6 · Alternatives for dying 200/2 VR1

I'll probably use the 200/2 i have until it dies, I got it pretty cheap and feel obligated to use it as much as I can (you just reminded me I have to post a new one in that thread).

I also love the F-mount 180mm 2.8 and wish Nikon would make a replacement/update for that in the Z mount like a 180mm 2.2 or 2.5.

The 135mm 1.8 is probably the "closest" Z mount prime fit right now but I already have the 85mm 1.4G and 105mm 1.4E on the FTZ II so I'm not sure I can generate enough interest in even trying it.

Sep 05, 2024 at 04:58 PM

Krubin
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p.1 #7 · p.1 #7 · Alternatives for dying 200/2 VR1

The VR II is still being serviced but that is on a clock too. I'm considering it though. Thx.

Sep 06, 2024 at 03:04 PM

Krubin
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p.1 #8 · p.1 #8 · Alternatives for dying 200/2 VR1

bernardl wrote:
The Z 135mm f1.8 S is a good alternative.

I own both. I am in the process of selling my mint VR 1.

I believe Nikon will release within 6 months a 100-200mm f2.0 TC… but few agree with my forecast.

Cheers,
Bernard

I'll cross my fingers that you're right :-)

Sep 06, 2024 at 03:05 PM

Krubin
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p.1 #9 · p.1 #9 · Alternatives for dying 200/2 VR1

neoshazam wrote:
I'll probably use the 200/2 i have until it dies, I got it pretty cheap and feel obligated to use it as much as I can (you just reminded me I have to post a new one in that thread).

I also love the F-mount 180mm 2.8 and wish Nikon would make a replacement/update for that in the Z mount like a 180mm 2.2 or 2.5.

The 135mm 1.8 is probably the "closest" Z mount prime fit right now but I already have the 85mm 1.4G and 105mm 1.4E on the FTZ II so I'm not sure I can generate...Show more →

The for the pointers. Will check those out. I too am hoping for a Z mount as I complete the transition to mirrorless. I have a Z9 and D6 now.

Sep 06, 2024 at 03:06 PM


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