As far as I remember, the f3.6 list price was twice that of the f4; Olympus
sales material stated that the 3.6 was designed to be just as good as prime
lenses within its zoom range; it was the 80's equivalent of the present f2.8
35-80 zoom. The f4 was designed to be more affordable. The f3.5-4.5 replaced the
f4; it is probably the most user-friendly 35-70 zoom in view of its remarkably
light weight, compact size, and close-focus abilities.
I checked some old magazines regarding prices; in June 1989, Adorama's prices
were:
35-70 f3.6 $379.95
35-70 f3.5-4.5 $167.50
35-105 f4 $317.95
65-200 f4 $249.95 (B & H)
I recently acquired a 35-105 f4 (fine condition, v.cheap - $50!). Very nice
lens, only a little larger than my 3.6, very useful extra range, and with close
focus; I expect to use it a lot. But for ultimate build quality (and, I beieve,
performance), the 3.6 wins. The feature noted by Lars Bundesen regarding the
slide-on lens hood function is important; it functions as a deep hood at 70mm,
and a wideangle hood at 35mm when the front element is at maximum extension. It
also reverses over the lens, providing good protection and a more compact lens
when packed. The screw-on lenshood with the 35-105 is much less useful,
providing almost no hood function at 105mm!
The non-rotating front element of the 3.6 is also much better when using a
polarising filter, as noted by Lars.
Regards, Roger Key CPH
>Franklin Berryman wrote:
>Also, Is there some reason the f3.6 commands about twice the price of the
>f4.0? Is it that much sharper or do people simply prefer a slightly faster
>lens and are willing to pay the price?
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