Setting a new standard?

For some time it haunted on the roadmap Pentax'schen. Now it's there, the new smc D FA100 F2.8 Macro WR. Actually, that was my Message Favourite 105s Sigma lens, but disappointed the ordered copies and went back. So I looked at the Pentax and ordered.

The "WR" is the new Pentax macro for "Weather Resistant", ie for dust and splash proof. According to the manufacturer, the basic construction of the DFA is the same as its predecessor. This is also clear to the masses, as well as to the weights. Only the sealing and a new stain-resistant remuneration distinguish the two versions.
Despite the similarity based on the basic specs, the new WR does not have much in common with the "old" DFA. When unpacking there a hello. The lens looks like a mixture of Limited and Carl Zeiss lens. The old-fashioned style is past. It looks delicate, but haptic its predecessor one step ahead. The very light and clean-made aluminum housing of the lens has played a big part. The diaphragm ring of the DFA's past. The inscription of the lens is clean and engraved deposited with color. The WR proudly displayed on the tube. New to Pentax, the color is blue.
It should be noted yet that in addition to the expansive lens hood, lens cap very valued, as well as a carrying case is included in delivery.

The handling of the WR is impeccable. The bayonet fit, nothing has game or hakelt. The focus ring is running tired without scratching or hakeln. The gumming I do not miss. No surprise there the pictures. Like the predecessor, the WR open very sharp. The AF of WR sits and is surprisingly fast for a Macro. At very hard contrast edges developed the WR fringing, but disappear when stopping down. This is especially when using the telephoto end to bear. I have set among customers photos to images.
Toll is from the DA Limiteds and the DA55 * etc., borrowed "Quickshift system". So the focus at any time, despite radio has AF, to be readjusted. It should be mentioned that also the WR has its KB- suitability, so the availability for the full format is not lost.

Short and sweet

Positive:
+ Processing and haptics
+ Equipment
+ Starting Aperture 2.8 very sharp
+ Sealing
+ Quickshift system (manual intervention possible in AF)
+ Stability
+ Imaging performance
+ VF fit

Negatives:
- Purchase price
- Tends to color fringing

Neutral:
o no aperture ring more (for those who need)

My conclusion: The WR continues the long tradition of good macros made by Pentax. Qualitatively, the WR is a significant leap forward. The feel and facilities convinced. The image quality is very good. The high price of WR pays off in the long term. Pentax lenses are very stable in value and lose needed little in value. For me, it is indeed a new standard in the Pentax lenses.