Mid range zoom for D700

I am not a pro but do appreciate good quality images. I shoot with a D700 with 16-35, 50mm & 70-300mm but am looking for a mid range zoom.

The obvious choices are;
Nikon 24-70mm
Nikon 24-85mm VR
Nikon 24-120mm VR
Tamron 24-70mm VC

For those who use these is the likes of the 24-120 or tamron significantly better to justify the cost over the 24-85mm?

Obviously the 24-70 is considered the best but the weight and lack of VR are a little off putting (not to mention the cost!!)