There are two versions of the Sigma 17-70 f/2.8-4 - the newest "Contemporary" version and an older (and more common) version. I haven't used one but understand it's not as sharp as the 17-50mm f/2.8.

The Tamron is also a good lens that I used for many years but it's not as well built, has screw-drive AF and many people report focusing problems (mine was fine).

The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 will mean losing the wide-angle view on an APS-C camera.

There's a reason why the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 doesn't have many images online - it was discontinued very quickly as it was much worse than the Tamron 17-50.

Looks good. The X variant is certainly the one I'd go for over the standard model if I were to go for a GR III.

A couple of acquisitions, bought separately but received at the same time.

I finally bit the bullet and bought an LX when one popped up from a seller I trust for £250 with an M 50/1.7 in EX+ condition. It's in very nice shape indeed, even better than I'd expected, and seems to work perfectly. It's missing a mirror bumper so I need to replace that before I can use it. I'm eager to see what all the fuss is about

And the K 30mm f/2.8 came from Lennybloke, my usual LBA enabler. It's not a lens that had really been on my radar but I'm aware of it's reputation and decided to treat myself as I had a bit of extra cash.


IMG_5742 by Jonathan MacDonald, on Flickr

I got my hands on this sooner than I'd expected after some friends of my wife decided to come over for a visit and kindly brought it over for me. It's in beautiful condition, works perfectly and seems nice and sharp even wide open. Thanks John for another flawless transaction.


IMG_5745 by Jonathan MacDonald, on Flickr

I bought a Sigma 18-50/2.8 many years ago and it was very soft wide open. I took it back and exchanged it for the Tamron. The 17-50 is a different kettle of fish - very sharp with beautiful rendering.

MPB have one: https://www.mpb.com/en-uk/product/sigma-17-50mm-f-2-8-ex-dc-hsm-pentax-fit/sku-1...

And Park have another: https://www.parkcameras.com/used/lenses/sigma/used-sigma-17-50mm-f28-ex-dc-hsm-k...

The MPB one is pricier but seems to be in better condition.

Very nice. You didn't get carried away with the width as happens many times when stitching a panorama.

Just ordered a third Z1 though I don't know when I'll get it since I can't really have it posted to me in Spain. I think three copies of a film camera are enough to ensure backups for the future

I posted this several days ago: https://www.pentaxuser.com/forum/topic/pentax-offers-at-wex--hd-da--16-50--1-214...

Some good prices such as:

DFA* 85/1.4 for £1,109

HD DA* 16-50/2.8 for £1,214

https://www.wexphotovideo.com/Pentax-Offers/?utm_campaign=1213796_wex2756%20B%20...

These days you can buy something to do the same, it screws into the tripod mount and attaches to your foot or belt. I have one, I think I've used it once.