Originally Posted by
Mad Aussie
You need to factor in the quote cost too. Now that Nikon have looked at it I assume there is a cost to be paid that will come off the cost of the repair should you go ahead.
The next thing I'd look at is how old is this Nikkor lens? You said it was 2nd hand when you got it. I'd be weighing that up against the new Sigma.
Also, is 'OS' some sort of Image Stabilization or something you need? at 200mm image stabilization is a handy thing at times.
What guarantee do Nikon give with their repair? After a full service and repair like this do you get another 12 months warranty in writing from them?
If so I'd be going that way myself. It may come back better than ever before.
If not, I'd be weighing up the real difference in these lenses and choosing the one that, in the end, is the best quality lens.