Skip wrote:
These are their Series 1 lenses, trying to bank on the reputation of the
old Series 1 lenses from the '80s. I've heard that they are pretty
poor, but then, again, their really cheap. There's a wide angle zoom
and a 70-200, besides the 100-400, I believe.
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Yes, it is unfortunate that Vivitar quality has gone downhill.
The 70s Vivitar lenses were made by Kiron (Kino Precision Optical Co.) which
produced some of the finest optics available.
For those who remember the infamous Vivitar 90mm macro, even by today's
standards it would easily be among the top 5 macros available. I later
acquired a Kiron 105mm F2.8 macro when Kiron (Kino) started producing and
distributing lenses under their own name. I only wish it was available in
today's mounts. I would take it over ANY macro lens today. It was the
sharpest macro I have yet to come across. Unfortunately nowadays Kino makes
optics for Copiers and other bsiness equipment, a better vehicle allowing
them to ensure revenue.
FWIW, Vivitar later contracted with Cosina (I think it was the time when
Ponder & Best who owned Vivitar sold the company) and produced some very
good lenses and some mediocre ones. Nowadays, their eye is always on the
bottom line and Phoenix's inexpensive lenses fit the Vivitar business model,
"If buying cheap makes a good profit, ignore quality."
Peter K
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