[Brightcolours]

And I who was comlaining that Canon  RF 35mmf1.8 macro was rather expensive at 500$....
The upcoming Sigma 45mm f2.8 is 700$ what the point ? prices everywhere are skyrocketing with no reason

The reasons:

• Lenses are getting sharper (and with some exceptions) better corrected. This is done by using more elements and more expensive to manufacture elements. Hence, prices go up.
  
• Inflation.
  

Besides that, what exactly the point is about the Sigma 45mm f2.8, I have no clue about. It was said to be almost pancake size, but it actually is more "pancake + integrated mirrorbox/adapter" size. Not at all like a Canon EF 40mm f2.8, more Sony/Zeiss Will be interesting to see its lens construction.

I already wondered how they could manage 45mm + pancake size with a 18mm flange distance.... I guess they could not. BTW: I read that it would cost $600, not $700. Still very expensive, though.

PS:
35mm f1.2 appears to be the new trend. First Samyang with its XP 35mm f1.2, now Sigma for the L-mount.