If ya wants fast ya pays for it ... in size and dollars. Apparently, Sony sees more gold in their own premium optics verses those done in conjunction with Zeiss.
The 24-70/28 is a "must" staple for wedding and event shooters (either that, or a 24-105/4). It'll be interesting to see if they got the distortion under control with the f/2.8 version compared to the f4.
The comparison between the ZA 24-70/2.8-II and this new FE 24-70/2.8 is interesting. Both are internal focusing, SSM, with 9 aperture blades. The ZA is an inch shorter and takes a 77MM filter verses the 82 of the FE. Yet, the ZA weighs 975g verses 886g. With the LAEA-3 the size of the ZA is about the same. The BIG question is image performance ... I know the ZA Zeiss designed optic is quite good with Zeiss characteristics that marry well with the Zeiss FE 55/1.8. Remains to be seen how this lens compares.
The new FE 85/1.4 is a welcome addition, and size is not the driving issue when seeking a fast portrait optic IMO (think Canon's 85/1.2 monster on a 5D). HOWEVER, the samples posted has me worried about the abrupt transition from in to out-of-focus: (zoom in and look at the in-focus transitions areas on this shot ... hmmmm?)
http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/sony-a7r-ii/FULLRES/Y-A-85mm-0107.HTM
BTW, the best 85/14 I ever used was the Zeiss 85/1.4N for the Contax N cameras due to color rendition and absolutely superb transitions.
Oh, and I wouldn't eliminate the possibility of a A99 replacement ... Sony has continued updating the ZA lens line including the ZA 50/1.4 SSM and the very recent ZA 24-70/2.8-II make-over. The A99 is a more versatile and secure system for certain types of pro work, and a Mirrorless replacement sporting the newer sensor tech with a better viewfinder resolution than the A cameras while keeping the dual card, incredibly articulated LCD, better ergonomics, and longer lasting battery is not only possible, I predict it is probable in this coming year.
- Marc