You might want to read the Cult Classics Page section on the Vivitar
70-210s <http://medfmt.8k.com/third/cult.html> before going for the
earliest version. I have one in a Nik*n mount that probably predates the
OM-1. It was a spectacular performer back then and is still pretty
decent, but lens materials and design have moved on.
The 67mm Vivitar is bigger around, the same weight and a bit shorter
than the Tamron SP 60-300/3.8-5.4 and it's once amazing macro capability
can't hold a candle to the Tamron. The Tamron is a bit slower at 200mm,
but goes out to 300mm. The Tokina AT-X 35-200/3.5-4.5 is MUCH smaller
and lighter and focuses down to 1:4. The Tamron SP 35-210/3.5-4.2 is
heavier trhan the Tokina, but still much smaller and lighter than the
Vivitar. Gary tested the 3rd version, the Vivitar Series 1 70-210mm
f/2.8~4.0, but it was without mirror lock-up, so we don't know if it's
really just a B performer.
It's not that the Vivitar Series 1 70-210mm lenses are bad, just that
they aren't really competitive with later MF zooms in the practical
aspects of size and weight. I also suspect they aren't as good optically
as the later Tamron SP and Tokina AT-X lenses. I don't know about later
Vivitars,
I don't have a Zuiko 60-200/4. Gary's tests of it are particularly
interesting in showing the effect of condition and proper lens support
on performance. It is a bit slimmer and shorter than the Vivitar and
significantly lighter. I know there are lots of opinions from owners.
My Vivitar also has stiff zooming. I think it wasn't that stiff years
ago. I can fell that a lot of stuff is happening in there as I zoom it.
Probably grease drying out. A CLA wouldn't be cost effective.
Moose
Gary M. Teller wrote:
<>
After owning an OM-1n for about 25 years I've decided to take it and
myself a bit more seriously. One of the first things I want to do is
purchase a zoom lens...I'd be interested in hearing your comments on
two particular ones:
Zuiko 65-200, f4 macro
Vivitar Series 1 70-210, f 3.5 (the one with 67 mm threads--is seems
the 67 mm model is looked upon more favorably by ebayers.)
I've been watching both on ebay and now have a feel for what I should
expect to bid/pay. I'm also looking at a Vivitar in person.
Everything seems OK with the exception of some stiffness in sliding
the zoom...especially from 210 to 70. Is this a common problem to
this brand & series? Is there a remedy for this that won't harm the
lens?
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