Based on a thread at a popular macro photography forum, the unique Canon MP-E 65 1-5x macro lens is no longer manufactured and is not repairable long-term due to a lack of parts. A letter from Canon-UK is posted at this link, lending credibility to this rumor:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1362660
However, the various Canon regions do not seem to have the same information. However, Canon USA is apparently telling US customers that all is well and the lens continues in production. At least one of these sources of information is mistaken!
This is very confusing to us hard-core macro enthusiasts since many of us would purchase a spare MP-E 65 lens as a backup if the lens is truly no longer manufactured and is not repairable. I don't personally have the money to buy a $1050 backup lens unless it is really essential.
One longs for the truth about these issues. I wish Canon would issue an official statement worldwide so we'd know the truth with certainty. On the other hand, if they announced the lens being discontinued, I fear that the worldwide stock of new lenses would quickly disappear!
Does anyone know how to get an official statement out of Canon? Can the legendary Chuck Westfall help?
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1362660
However, the various Canon regions do not seem to have the same information. However, Canon USA is apparently telling US customers that all is well and the lens continues in production. At least one of these sources of information is mistaken!
This is very confusing to us hard-core macro enthusiasts since many of us would purchase a spare MP-E 65 lens as a backup if the lens is truly no longer manufactured and is not repairable. I don't personally have the money to buy a $1050 backup lens unless it is really essential.
One longs for the truth about these issues. I wish Canon would issue an official statement worldwide so we'd know the truth with certainty. On the other hand, if they announced the lens being discontinued, I fear that the worldwide stock of new lenses would quickly disappear!
Does anyone know how to get an official statement out of Canon? Can the legendary Chuck Westfall help?
