Using the word flair in a header to announce a lens is a little dangerous - but as long as I spell it right, the correct message is there. And I am a whiz at coreckt spelinge...
The introduction of a new barrel style by the Sigma corporation with their 35mm, 16-35mm, 24-105mm, and now 18-200 and 50mm was a good move. I looked at the older style barrels with their strange crackle coating and wondered if it was all a design mistake. I knew the glass and operation was fine...I spent my own money to buy the 8-16mm lens and have never regretted it...but the wear and tear on that crackle finish made them look sad.
The new barrels are metal - and smooth, and sleek. The weight has been increased, the feel of the focus ring improved, and the overall style greatly advanced. These lenses look every bit as good - and in some cases a lot better - than the dedicated lenses from the two major manufacturers. You can consider getting Body A or Body B and putting a Sigma on for preference.
The first reports that have come from the current CES show reveal a new 50mm f:1.4 mount and a compact 18-200 mount. The former is portrait territory and the latter may very well best the kit lenses that everyone gets. Consider getting bodies A or B and this one for a universal travel kit.
I'll show examples of these then they reach our shop.
Uncle Dick
