This is my 10th lens. I collected this used Canon EF 35-80 mm f/4-5.6 II on the same day as the Cosina AF 28-105mm F2.8-3.8, but from different sellers though. The is my 2nd used lens after the Cosina and as usual, old lenses that show up these days needs some serious cleaning. The screws on the moving elment are rusty, there were dust everywhere. To restore, first I sent the lens to the "expert" and once the lens are cleaned from inside out, the cosmetics are next. Using a mild cleaning solution, I cleaned the lens body and slowly swipe clean all the grooves and lines. Then bought a new filter, a new lens cap and a rear cap.  Now the lens looks so much "younger". OK, now back to the lens. The Canon EF 35-80 mm f/4-5.6 II came as a kit lens for the Rebel Series SLRs, the EOS 88, EOS 1000F, etc. This is really the "big brother" of the Canon’s "cheapo lens" family – low cost to produce, and (still) usable by the mass.

* picture:  EF 35-80mm F4-5.6.II.

The first version was launched as a kit lens for EOS 1000FN SLR in 1992. Now at its 3rd & last incarnation (Mark III), this 1995 lens saw the product line through the transition period of "Digital SLR Evolution" and the arrival of EOS 10D, EOS 300D and EOS 1D. Featuring a full plastic construction (except the glass elements), you can’t really expect much from a lens made this cheap. After all if you surf the net for information about this lens, it is commonly known as the "SLR" lens, but compatible with EF mounts so all the newer DSLR can still use it. The lens do not have a Distance Scale (probably to save production cost) and there are only 3 focal length stops (35mm, 50mm & 80mm). This is indeed a simple lens. Simple to build & simple to use. The image quality of the photos from this lens are soft and lack contrast when used on my digital bodies like 500D & 5D Mark II. I attribute this to the purpose of this lens which is built and calibrated for use with Film Bodies, so it does not work that well on digital bodies. If you have a more sensible explanation to that, please email and share with me.

* picture:  EF 35-80mm F4-5.6.II.

I bought this used lens below SGD$100 (inclusive of the service fees, new caps and filter) and it is a good piece of lens to keep as a collectors’ item or you can use this lens as a "Soft Focus Lens".  (Think dreamy portraits of people) I take it out once in a blue moon for walking about shoots. Not my first choice lens in any situation. Now you get the drift.