Three new models from Pentax

Press, Volume CXV, Issue 34021, 10 December 1975, Page 19

Three new models from Pentax

The Asahi Optical Company’s introduction of the Pentax K Series of three new 35mm SLR cameras is of wide interest to camera enthusiasts. All three cameras offer a fastaction bayonet lens mount of exclusive design to accommodate a new line of 26 interchangeable super multi-coated Pentax lenses.

The top-of-the-line model, the K2, features an exclusive Asahi-Seiko verticalrun electronic shutter, which permits the K2 to be more compact than other automatic exposure 35mm SLR cameras, and smaller than other Pentax models. It also features a silver vacuum evaporated coated pentaprism for brighter viewing. The other two cameras in the K series—-

the KX and KM also have the new bayonet lens system. The KX features a centre-weighted silicon photo diode light meter with aperture, speed and match needles visible in the viewfinder. All three cameras accept 26 SMC bayonet lenses ranging from 15 to 1000 mm, including 17mm Fish-Eye and normal lenses of 50mm f/1.2, 50mm f/1.4 and 55mm f/1.8 which stop down to f/22 (telephotos to f/32) to better handle light - sensitive modern films.

A more advanced super multi-coating is used on all new SMC Pentax lenses.

Advantages of the new K bayonet mount are that the lens can now be mounted in less than a

quarter turn, yet holds securely, and synchronises better with the fullyautomatic diaphram and the function of the exposure meter.

Also the bayonet mount is a wide 45mm in diameter, which enabled Asahi Optical to design the world’s first 50mm f/1.2 lens.

In addition, a raised bump on the lens barrel matches with the lens release lever to facilitate mounting in the dark.

The body design of the K Series cameras reflects the performance: it’s sharp, precise, functional. The bevelled edges make it more comfortable, while the self-timer has become smaller and is tucked out of the way, yet is easier to use.

The black strip on the pentaprism is a symbol of the K Series. Model identification is shown conspicuously on the right shoulder of each camera. The film advance lever is covered with a plastic thumb guard. The leather body and rough texture of the rubber focusing ring on lenses are designed for easier handling. Another example of the care of the design ■is synchro plugs which accept screw-in cords, to prevent flash failure. Pentax also offers a K mount adaptor to fit screwin Takumar lenses to the new bayonet-mount cameras.