What does this really mean?

'Entirely new optically.'

According to the listing these lenses are brand new and sealed, but then they go on to say that the lenses are 'entirely new optically'. When I read things worded in that way I presume it means something other than that the lens is brand new.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk …ZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcm​dZViewItem

Are these likely to be 'refurbished' (whatever that means) or returned items? 'Sealed' doesn't mean anything because they could be sealed after re-boxing. What do you think?

Mike

Well Mike,
really difficult to say. I can only assume what could it mean so you rather ask the seller.
To me - optically new means that lens was used but glasses are not scratched. And while the glass is not scratched then it's like new, isn't?
Probably didn't help but I at least tried

Hello Lukas

Yes, I'm thinking along the same lines as you! To be honest I'm not a potential customer, but more of a curious observer!

Mike

It means "I couldn't think of any good marketing catchphrases."

I think they are trying to say latest version .

It could be old marketing language from Canon when the lens was introduced, since it is an update from a previous version of the 100mm f/2.8 macro. Similar words can be found here: http://www.canon.com …o/ef_100_28macr​o_usm.html

Maybe I'm too suspicious for my own good!

Mike