Question! Canon 24-70 f/2.8L - DPChallenge Forums

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM

03/23/2008 06:08:29 PM · #1

I'm looking at a lens that I've been wanting for sometime now:

Date code UL1105 = manufacture date of November, 1997.

They're asking $775

is there anything i need to be weary of about this date code? are there new versions that would make this one too old?

i've been wanting this lens and haven't been able to find it less than $900 used, so very curious.

thanks!

pineapple

Canon EOS-5D

Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM

03/23/2008 06:19:34 PM · #2

Considering this is the (IMO) number one bread making (money making) lens, you would do well to rethink buying second hand. The resale price on this 24-70 Canon lens is always up in the 900s unless there is something wrong. You're in the business and if anything goes wrong with the 24-70mm, you want to be able to ship it right off to Canon for a fix under warranty. 1997 is out of warranty, I am pretty sure. At Beach Camera, it is selling at USD1,139. I reckon it better to save up... but over to someone else for an update on the date code etc...

doctornick

Apple iPhone 13 Pro

03/23/2008 06:20:42 PM · #3

If it's in good condition $775 is a VERY good price. There was an issue in the early models with the Red ring falling off, I can't tell you which date codes are involved though...

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II

03/23/2008 06:37:15 PM · #4

thanks everyone

any other insights?

hopper

Canon EOS-80D

Canon EF 35mm f/2 IS USM

03/23/2008 07:34:17 PM · #5

things that seem too good to be true, usually are

unless i could test it first, i'd skip it

MattO

Nikon D4

03/23/2008 08:12:48 PM · #6

If you can test the lens ahead of time, or get a return policy that you can live with I'd buy it. To be honest most of the equipment I have I buy second hand. You dont have to worry about the initial loss that comes from buying the lens. My 24-70 was bought second hand from a trusted seller and its one lens I cant do without. If you buy it for $775 and need to send it to Canon you will likely still have less in it then the current going price of over $925-$975.

Matt

03/23/2008 08:21:44 PM · #7

thanks so much everyone. i really appreciate the input