This is the Nikon 85mm f1.4 AF D. It was discontinued by Nikon in 2010 after a production run lasting 15 years.

It was replaced by the Nikon 85mm f1.4 AF-S. Nikon's new version has the silent wave auto-focus system which does improve focusing speed but only slightly.

The current version costs around £1600 new or perhaps £1200 secondhand in mint condition.

We're selling the lens shown above, virtually mint, for £539. That's a huge saving.

So, how much better is the current version? Is it sharper? No. Is it smaller or lighter? No - it's actually larger. Is it better built? No. Does it focus more quickly? Yes, but the difference is minimal.

Never dismiss older equipment. We always want the latest and 'best' but often that extra cost doesn't justify the benefit.

The current 85mm f1.4 AF will cost you £1000 more than the previous version. Is it £1000 better? Absolutely not.

Jonathan Harris

Please remember we're always keen to buy quality used Nikon and other top brands. Latest equipment or not we'll pay top prices.