[stoppingdown]

Just a reminder for those questioning the testing method of PZ. The very first reviews about the SEL1670Z were so-so: about lens samples with a strong decentering defect. Then Kurt Munger came, a guy who tests all the Sony stuff and clearly has got no bias against the brand, and was a negative review:

 

http://kurtmunger.com/sony_zeiss_16_70mm_f_4id354.html

 

This was a tough lens to review.  When I first received it and took it for a test spin, I thought it was not up to Sony standards as it was noticeably soft along the sides at wider focal lengths, so I sent for another one, (both were brand new and not 'loaner' copies).  Unfortunately, both performed about the same.  I've reviewed all Sony DSLR/NEX camera lenses ever made (unless new), and this is one of the very few times I've been disappointed.  Soooo, let's move on!

 

There are a few positives, and a a couple of negative with this lens ... [...]
 
Bottom line: Personally, I'd pass on this lens if it meets Sony's QC; It's too expensive for the lack luster quality at mid lengths.  if I got a couple of bad copies, then maybe I'll take another look when they get things straightened out. 
 
And as you can see, he also had to return a first sample. Sure, there are decent and probably good samples around. To me it's clear Sony was bad with QC on this product.