Got the lens 3 weeks ago while in Japan ... pretty hard to find even in Japan as there is no stock in the major camera chains ... I only manage to find it during my last day at Kobe in a small decent camera shop the size of MS Color ...
Excellent built(not plasticky at all - has the crinkle feel)
Lightweight - 510grams
Optics is good so far ... try comparing to my Canon 16-35 and i must say it can really match the details captured at similar focal length and aperture ...
Can focus down to 0.33m when is a good substitute for limited macro if you do not want to carry too many lenses. ...
And somehow the Di technology seems to work well for DSLR ... hmm I wonder how is it so ...
The only thing I do not like is that the autofocus is quite slow and not very sensitive as Canon lenses
Well for the price and the compact size, it is definitely a steal ... Listed price in Japan is 55,000 Yen but it is usually going for 39,500 yen ... and there is a possibilty of bargaining a slightly lower price ...I got mine for around S$550
Dun think there will be stock in Singapore as Tithes Marketing is not bringing in such a lens ...
If i am going to Japan for work again, can help to get the lens ....
One thing to note ... the warranty is only valid in Japan if it is bought in Japan ...