Thanks. I remember, indeed, because I tested it for the first time. It is a Tamron SP AF 28-75mm F2.8 XR LD IF Macro (no kidding, this is the name ;-). This is the version that still has a manual aperture ring. So far, I am happy with it, but not yet sure how well it holds up compared to my Nikon lenses.
I read a really good review online at OpticalLimits about the lens and found a NOS available from Japan (at ebay) for just over $150. Hence, I gave it a try, and so far, it is similar but substantially smaller and lighter than the Nikon alternative (not the G one). If you find one, get one but be careful to order a version that still has the aperture ring.