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Buying used Panasonic 12-35 2.8. What to look for?

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BubbleGum

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Hi everyone!

I want to buy a used Panasonic 12-35 2.8 lens but, because it's a lot of money for me, I really want to get a good copy without problems.
What are the common issues with this lens and what "inspection points" do you recommend to look at when I check out a lens?
Also, I'm wondering if there are different versions of this lens and what are the differences of there is more than one version.

Thanks!
 
As you may have read the mark 2 version has been anounced. I don't know if that has had any effect on the prices of the mark 1 version. But if you can wait (don't need it now) I would suggest to wait untill the mark 2 is on the market. That should lower the prices of the second-hand mark 1 versions.

As to what to look for: do a search on this forum and look what comes up most. And ofcourse the obvious: scratches, stains that could indicate the lenscoating has been damaged and so. (there are numerous threads about this as well)
 
Dreeke said:
As you may have read the mark 2 version has been anounced. I don't know if that has had any effect on the prices of the mark 1 version. But if you can wait (don't need it now) I would suggest to wait untill the mark 2 is on the market. That should lower the prices of the second-hand mark 1 versions.

As to what to look for: do a search on this forum and look what comes up most. And ofcourse the obvious: scratches, stains that could indicate the lenscoating has been damaged and so. (there are numerous threads about this as well)
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The OP lives in the US and therefore can purchase from three very reputable sellers of used equipment that accurately rate the condition of their lenses. In addition they have a 30 day return policy and give you a warranty. Therefore I suggest that they look at Adorama, B&H and KEH for this lens.
 
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Agree about going with reputable sellers as noted.

Beyond the obvious (scratches, dents, dings), I have not read of very many consistent problems with this lens. I don't see a lot of discussion about wide variation in quality between copies. I've had mine for almost three years and the only thing to note is that the rubber coating around the zoom ring is a bit loose in really hot weather. Otherwise, I love its performance.
 
My 12-35 has a very stiff focus ring and so is not possible to execute a smooth manual focus. It sticks. Mine is a very early copy. Also it is purple. I believe they are available in matte black now since a year ago.
 
Seriously, it is beautifully built so it should be solid. The zoom should be smooth and firm but not hard -- it will feel "right!" The glass should be clear and no marks, etc, obviously. And there should be no marks on the outside of the lens.

And when you get it on your camera, expect TOP performance! Lovely lens!



















--
Geoffrey Heard
Down and out in Rabaul in the South Pacific
 

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BubbleGum said:
Hi everyone!

I want to buy a used Panasonic 12-35 2.8 lens but, because it's a lot of money for me, I really want to get a good copy without problems.
What are the common issues with this lens and what "inspection points" do you recommend to look at when I check out a lens?
Also, I'm wondering if there are different versions of this lens and what are the differences of there is more than one version.
Click to expand...
Dust inside the lens.

Yes, it's "moisture and dust sealed" but since it is an extending zoom design it is still possible for dust to get sucked inside when zooming.

When I shopped for mine I passed over several examples that had visible dust inside the front and/or rear elements.

The recently announced new version will have improvement in the stabilization when used with certain new bodies.
Optically it will most likely be the same (excellent!).

Best ...
--
I'm not a perfectionist, I'm a precisionist.
rd
 
Thanks everyone! After reading all your advice I found myself a good copy for a good price. I checked that there is no dust inside and the focusing ring is not stiff, both front and rear elements are clean. I love the lens so far!
 
BubbleGum said:
Thanks everyone! After reading all your advice I found myself a good copy for a good price. I checked that there is no dust inside and the focusing ring is not stiff, both front and rear elements are clean. I love the lens so far!
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I am really happy that you found at a good price.

Out of curiosity where did you buy it and how much did you pay?
 
Rssrsvp said:
BubbleGum said:
Thanks everyone! After reading all your advice I found myself a good copy for a good price. I checked that there is no dust inside and the focusing ring is not stiff, both front and rear elements are clean. I love the lens so far!
Click to expand...
I am really happy that you found at a good price.

Out of curiosity where did you buy it and how much did you pay?
Click to expand...
I'm in Canada. I bought it from an owner that I've found through Craigslist. I paid 700 CAD which is about 530 USD.
 
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