I found another great buy and I sold my 18-35mm, so I grabbed it. For $299, it is a great deal. I'll be looking forward to receiving it soon. (It even comes with an imported warranty.)
If I am not mistaken, there is always a first time for everything, this lens is essentially the same optical fomula as the venerable 85mm f/2 AIS, which is still a superb lens and has admirably stood the test of time.