After bidding on, and losing out, eBay Zeiss 16-70s numberless times, I finally accepted the current market and bought the 16-70 at my local camera store (they still exist!). I had concerns due to all the web chatter. But, after testing it, I was rather astounded. It is a remarkable lens and the perfect travel lens. However, in the end, it's a an over-priced $500 lens.