The 35-70 zoom is a beautiful lens. As far as I know, they were only available in the MM mount. It is a very nice, bright lens with a constant aperture, and will macro focus to about 1/2 life size. If you want a larger range, the 28-85 is supposed to be one of the best zooms ever made, optically. It's a big lens though, much bigger than the 35-70, and I think it lacks the close-focus capability of the 35-70. If you want a longer telephoto, they also made a 35-135 which is massive. I have not shot with the 28-70 zoom, which has a variable aperture, but it might be a good fit for your wife because it is smaller and lighter.