85mm 1.2L versus 85mm 1.2L II

[RTMiller]

What were the major improvements to this upgraded lens? Is this everything...

1. Improvements to distance information passed back to the new E-TTL II flash algorithm.
2. Real non-electronic Full-time Manual focus.
3. Faster auto-focus.

Was the old version discontinued?
Thanks.

[baybud]

What were the major improvements to this upgraded lens? Is this everything...

1. Improvements to distance information passed back to the new E-TTL II flash algorithm.
2. Real non-electronic Full-time Manual focus.
3. Faster auto-focus.

Was the old version discontinued?
Thanks.

i didn't know the new version had real time non-electronic full time manual.

[flipm3]

i see lots of used mk1's out there...is it really not worth purchasing compared to a mkII?

[Longwatcher]

The new version supposedly also has better anti-ghosting and anti-flare design, but it is minor relative to cost.

The biggest improvement is truly the faster focus speed and the slightly better bokeh caused by curved aperture blades. This is what you are really paying extra for.

And yes the MkI was discontinued, but many still exist.

[chris clements]

..is it really not worth purchasing compared to a mkII?

A large UK Canon Pro dealer told me sales of the MkI increased considerably once everyone had digested the MkII specification - only minor changes, but for major bucks.
Snap up a MkI while you can.

[Billginthekeys]

And yes the MkI was discontinued, but many still exist.

lol, i think they most all still exist :p. wasnt aware of a mass 85 1.2 breakdown. sorry, i chucked a bit when i read this, like we were talking about an endagered species.

anyway. the mkII certainly seems to have some good improvements it all comes down to whether they are enough to make you pay for them

[andym172]

I hopefully have a new mkII arriving tomorrow :D

Apologies, I just had to share that (like a small child at Christmas)... :p