My Top-5 Wishlist for the new Pentax Film Cameras

On the heels of the most amazing news of Pentax getting back into making film cameras, I posted a new podcast discussing this development.

So far, the responses I have gotten from the various platforms have been generally positive, ranging from surprise to excitement, sometimes tinged with a small measure of cynicism (understandably).

Based on these responses, and in the spirit of the holidays, I thought it would be prudent to put together my Wishlist for Pentax, the top 5 cameras that I hope Pentax would revive or at least base some of their new cameras on. Here goes nothing:

1.Pentax 67

This medium format film camera, which debuted in 1969 under the name Pentax 6x7, as well as the Honeywell Pentax 6x7, was re-released in 1990 as Pentax 67 with some minor changes to the engineering and cosmetics (Wikipedia). This camera has the advantage of being highly versatile, and with many good lenses available for use with it. Re-introducing this camera will be a clear shot across the bow that Pentax is serious about this venture and is fully invested not just in the casual photography and hobbyists but also in the professional market as well.

2. Pentax 645

The Pentax 645 is a beautiful camera! Quite easily, this is my favorite in the line of Pentax cameras. It invokes similar passions and emotions as my other favorite film camera, the Mamiya M645 1000s.

With this camera you get the quality lenses and quality medium format image with the least hassle possible. It does not come with an interchangeable back, but the operation of this camera should feel like using any standard semi-automatic SLR, which is a great advantage. The built-in light meter is a definite plus. Pentax should definitely prioritize this camera about all other professional-grade cameras in my opinion.

3. Pentax K1000

The Pentax K1000 is a classic film camera beloved by students and professionals alike for its simplicity and durability. It features a manual focus design and a range of creative controls, including interchangeable lenses and a variety of shutter speeds and apertures. Its straightforward controls make it an excellent choice for photographers just starting out, while its durability makes it a reliable choice for professionals. This camera is by far my top manual SLR for Pentax to revive.

4. Pentax MZ-S

The Pentax MZ-S is a high-end film SLR camera with advanced features such as continuous shooting and multiple exposure capabilities. It was the last film camera that was manufactured by Pentax in Japan and it came equipped with a range of creative controls, including a variety of shooting modes, making it a popular choice for not just amateurs but also experienced photographers. I have never used this camera, but it is so cool looking, I want it back!

5. Pentax Espio Range

Lastly, with their more accessible options and reasonable prices (looking at you Olympus), I want the Pentax Espio range of point and shoot cameras back, but this time modernized with more standard battery options. Rechargeable and AA or AAA battery options would be nice ;-).

A WORD OF CAUTION

Finally, let me sound a note of caution to Pentax as it develops this project. As much as I would like more modernity to its cameras, it should try to reduce reliance on electronics in the new build of cameras. From my experience, these components tend to be the weakest links in any film camera that I have tested and owned. Also, planned obsolescence is often designed into these modern chips and components. None of their new cameras should be designed to require a firmware upgrade or the internet in order to fully operate. We all know how that tends to end up. Lastly, avoid ALL the mistakes of Yashica with its horrendous Yashica Y35 project and you will definitely be off to a good start.

Good luck, Pentax, we’re rooting for you!