The early K1000s were all made in Japan from 1976 to 1978. From 1978 to 1990 production was shifted to Hong Kong, and then from 1990 to 1997 they were made in mainland China. The most noticeable change is in the material used. The late model ones saw the metal used for the bottom and top plates changed to plastic. This made a noticeable difference in weight. Some of the internal parts were also changed to different metals. Your second camera is a Japanese or Hong Kong model - the first one likely from China and these suffer from "desilvering in the viewfinder. You have the best one now.
Just discovered my late grandfather's Pentax k1000 was still hiding in our home, camera bag, instructions, and all. I'm almost afraid to handle it because it's in immaculate condition and it's one of the older metal ones. I've only been doing DSLR photography for a couple years now and only just started considering getting a old Canon 35mm EOS body for cheap to use with my EF lenses, now that I know I have this, I'm still going to get the cheap EOS body just to practice with before I dare use my Grandpa's beautiful mechanical camera. Amusingly I also dug up a Polariod Impulse AF that I bought as a kid because I was obsessed with instant cameras, it's in great shape to my surprise and I'm much less worried about trying it out so it's going to get a few new cartridges of film.
Lucky find! Honestly, you shouldn't be afraid to use the K1000. They were built to be used after all! Nothing sadder than a wonderful camera sitting on a shelf. I understand the apprehension but I can't help but feel that you'd be losing out on the opportunity to use a classic camera - not to mention one with sentimental value. My favourite camera is my late grandfather's Pentax SV and every time I use it, I feel a connection to him somehow - even though he died before I was born.
A friend from work told me they had an LSR camera to sell me. He showed me sample pictures he took of his family trip to Disney World. They came out so nice. He said the camera was sitting in his closet for years. He sold it to me for $15. I took it out for it's first shoot at the St. Patrick's parade. I started shooting and it jammed. It ripped the film. I took it apart and remembered it having a plastic bottom. I bet it was a Chinese made model. I have just ordered a Hong Kong made camera. I don't want extra features at all! They overwhelmed me. I considered the famous Nikon F3, but it was too complicated to shoot form research I did. The Pentax K-1000 fits my needs.
Thanks for the video. I have a Japan made early version of this camera, bought it mostly for nostalgia as my father had one when I was young and all my childhood photos were taken with a k1000. I have recently added an sp1000 (Spotmatic) to the collection and prefer that one to the k1000. Something about the design I find really attractive, and as you say the lenses are excellent and readily available. I have a 50 1.4 which I love, has a unique dreamy effect when using a shallow depth of field.
The SP1000 was the basis for the KM and the K1000, they used most of the same tooling. The main difference was that the SP's had a M42 lens mount, the K's had a K mount. The only other differences were minor features like whether they had a self-timer, hot shoe etc. They were all basically 1960's tech.
Great video! Just picked up one of these that's in near perfect condition for just $20 dollars and I hope to get some shots soon! I'll be my first attempt at shooting film. Can't wait to see the results! This video inspired me to get out there and just goahead and shoot my first roll. I've been putting it off too long
Hello, if you need, a photo teacher I'm, the gentleman who, can help You. I, can show you, the ropes. To, make sharp pictures, by turning The focusing ring, and all about the camera.
I have a 1981 K1000, I bought it new, it is good to use and accurate. I recall reading articles in the 90's. China made K1000s often did not work properly from new. They had many faults including shutter curtains that would come off after two or three frames were exposed from new. There was no quality control on the Chnia cameras and people were warning photographers not to buy them.
Got mine since 1985, so probably it's a Hongkong made one, but it has been working perfectly ever since. Not a single issue in 38 years and I can't say it feels worse than my other Ks (KM and KX). I also have an ME and an LX, but those are completely different animals. Unfortunately, my MX died this autumn from crashing down violently which resulted in a heavily bent prism housing an a broken off rewind knob. What a pity, I loved the MX...
I have a Japanese one that my dad got as gift. The light no longer reads accurately camera still works well and original light seals still do their job.
Your review of the K1000 inspired me to dig mine out of the closet to see which model it was, and it turned out to be an earlier model. It was also an SE version, which had a split screen for focusing in addition to the prism. Though beaten up, it feels and sounds good,, so I will have to find a roll of film to try tit out. Thanks for the inspiration.
I enjoy watching the changing album covers on the shelf behind you. Pentax SV = Bob Dylan, Pentax K1000 = Meatloaf Bat out of Hell (excellent album!) Good comments about condition vs brand. And that the K1000 was your dad's camera is the best reason that you should want one!
Hi, these videos are really good. You come across well. It will be a hard slog for a while, then - probably in a few years, not months - it will all suddenly come together - in the meanwhile DON'T GIVE UP!! I started B/W photography and developing and printing over 50 years ago; passed my City & Guilds and gained LRPS; also did (mainly club) motorsport photography and wedding photography professionally (printing my own colour prints). There are a lot of very good professional photographers' UA-cams out there but you have something different and refreshing, which stands out. As you may have noticed, the headline product/theme tends to be what attracts the number of viewers but, over time, you should find that more and more people want to see your personal input. Probably thinking of what would make a popular theme for a couple of videos might help bump the numbers up. Just a thought. All the best, Glyn
Hi Glyn, Thank you for this incredible comment. It makes me so happy that someone with your experience finds something to like in my videos. The truth is, I didn't start making videos to get lots of likes and become famous! I really just wanted to contribute to the film photography community and feel like I was a part of it, like I was connected to the big wide world somehow. I like your idea about a theme. I'm going to put some thought into it. I have a couple more cameras to review - including my Nikkormat FTN and a really cool Zenit with a Helios lens. Thank you again. Wesley
I just got back into the 35mm Slr hobby and found your channel. New subscriber 👍🏻. It's sad that someone would sell their 21st birthday gift. I've always had a USA purchased Honeywell Spotmatic F and since my passion has been reactivated, have since bought from Japan mint Olympus OM-1 and a Minolta SRT 101. I also found on Marketplace a like new Praktica MTL-3 (my dad had the same). I waiting for winter to start here (Canberra) and will binge on your content.
I bought mine in about '75. Japan. f1.4 50mm lens. 2 piece cover. Left it in storage with the battery in and it leaked a little, rendering the meter useless. Other than that it is pristine, and very useful. I've made 1000's of exposures with it, and it is now dedicated to B&W, with @home processing.
I have watched a ton of K1000 video reviews. YOURS has been THE BEST. I learned so much more your presentation. Thank you so much! I just ordered a Pentax K 1000 on eBay and I’m so excited about getting my hands on it and learning about film photography. Thank you for all your great info.
I totally agree with you, a working body is the most important - and with lens adapters you can do crossovers between brands. But I think this joy of a camera is somehow sadly suffering for its reputation. It's not dedicated to beginners, but since it was striped off everything fancy that would make your life easier - unlike a Canon AE Program - you really needed to learn how to use a semi-manual camera. Not for the noobs, but for the avid learners who don't fear the hard way. Also, beside the film size and the mirror lock up it shares the same features as most of the versions of the "very pro" Pentax 67. But I suppose people assume you know your way around with such a camera because of its size... Also, I've never heard someone disregarding points and shoots because they were for beginners. And still you can take pictures with your eyes closed, probably the result of a lifetime training. Ask Kendal Jenner. In your list of K1000's alternatives I'd add the Me Super (bright viewfinder and speed up to 1/2000) and the P30n. But only if you find a working one since they have their small share of electronics.
Thank you for this great comment. The Me Super does look really cool! In a funny way, I think real "professional" vintage cameras have very few automatic features. But that's sounding dangerously close to Leica snobbery and I won't go there!
The K1000 was recommended for beginners back when most cameras were manual anyway. Art and photog schools mandated them for years because they "forced" trainee pros and keen amateurs to learn exposure. In 1975, snapshot photogs were using Instamatics etc, not SLRs. Today, even pros don't expect to work the camera manually, even though they generally could. I think the K1000 falls down for the user (even compared with some contemporaries like the Minolta SRT 101) because it is slow to work with, having no viewfinder display of shutter speed. Having composed and metered, you have to take it down from your eye to check the speed is sensible, before returning it to the eye for the shot. The Pentax 6x7 with metering head is the same (I've got one) but the 6x7 was not a sport, action or journalistic camera as you might expect a 35mm to be. In its day, apart from the art students, the K1000 was mostly bought by people simply because it was the cheapest big-brand SLR you could buy - Pentax deliberately made it so.
I have it and it's my favourite, even if the others I have are better in terms of features. Bought it (Asahi old version) on ebay more than ten years ago for around 100€ with 50mm f2 and original leather case and original Pentax red strap. It's still works perfect, a tank. It's so easy to use that is perfect for street ph. Thanks for the info Japan/china versions, I didn't know it. Now I understand why there are models sold for 150€ and others for few euros.
Found one in a thrift store yesterday, in very nice condition. Lacks lens cap, and no box or so, but otherwise really nice. Everything works, including the light meter. It's an Asahi model, fully metal body, and on the bottom it has a small sticker with "Japan" printed on it. I gave about 10 USD for it, which is probably a really good price, lol. 😂
Got one from my wife’s grandfather who was stationed in Japan. Still shoots great but the battery slot is broken and won’t open. Not sure if I should pay to get it fixed, or just keep the camera as is. Great video.
I have my father's Japan made and Pentax K1000 that he got as a gift. I have leather case too. I still use it. Those self timers accessories have been around for a long time for cameras actually had built-in timers.
Recently purchased a mint Pentax KM and i completely agree with you. I'm struggling to find Kentmere 400 in Jo'burg, are you the one buying all of it? 😂
I wish! I actually bought a couple of bulk rolls from B&H in New York. Took months to get here and I had to pay like 300 bucks tax, but it still worked out way cheaper than buying bulk HP5+ here. I'm shooting a lot of Fomapan 400 now (also from B&H) and I find I like it - but not quite as much as Kentmere. The Fomapan is grainier and has more "character", which is nice in some situations - but it doesn't push nearly as well as Kentmere, which I often shoot at 3200.
KM is better than a K1000. It has the self timer, mirror lock up, and a holder for the film carton end. It also had a "F" synchonised flash socket for flash bulbs. Otherwise they were identical. Also, as the KM was only made in the early days, there was never a cheap plastic Chinese version. Some K1000 fans claim those extra features are "confusing" - I'm confused why though.
I had the good fortune of getting a restored/repaired one from probably 1978 as the serial number is on top, there’s a notch next to the rewind lever and the full “Asahi Pentax” is seen on front of the prism along with the “AOC” symbol on the prism.
A level-headed review of the K1000, thumbs up. I don't know why people go bonkers over it - just a typical 1970's camera, low on features, Pentax's cheapest. Funny to describe the KM or KX as a "K1000 with _more features"_ , I'd word it differently. KX/KM/K2 came first, and then the KM was re-launched as the K1000 with _less features_ . The KX and LX are far superior to the KM or K1000. The KM was a Spotmatic with a K-mount.
Yes, true. I think it's a nice camera - but there are many nice cameras. In fact, I would argue that the majority of SLR cameras from any manufacturer of that time will be nice. Online Top Ten Lists have made the K1000 and Canon AE-1 very, very popular, and more expensive than they deserve to be. However! That means there are bargains to be had elsewhere. All part of the fun, I think.
Hi, Nice video. I personally am not a big fan of the K1000 since it is extremely barebones and the design is not very appealing to me. That being said I bought one from a lady off Facebook today. It was her personal camera which she used when she was young during her travels. So yes it has seen some action. It says Asahi Pentax on the prism so it might be a Hong Kong made one. I found it to be in a very good condition. No problems with the shutter, all dials working fine and overall clean and well maintained. The only problem is that the lens wouldn't come off the body and the battery compartment wouldn't open as well when I tried with a coin. Seems like years of disuse has had some effect in the form of rust on the mount release button and it isn't working due to that. My only worry is shouldn't have had a battery in it prior to storage. Else leakage and subsequent damage is a big possibility, which I sincerely hope isn't the case with this one. Looks like a visit to the camera service center will fix it completely and it'll be like new again, ready for the field. Fingers crossed for that! Cheers!
Hi again! I managed to unmount the lens from the camera body. Turns out I wasn't doing it the correct way with its release button. Looking at some manuals online helped me out. So now there remains only the battery compartment to be opened. Woohoo!!! I am super stoked to have bought this one. Right after I picked up an almost new looking but non working Olympus OM-1 two weeks ago. Sadly the shutter mechanism on it is broken but the camera service center said they have the parts. Pretty expensive to repair but completely worth it, since the OM-1 is a historical little camera, a true jewel to look at and own. Cheers!!!
I have tried looking for that specific self timer and only came across it on eBay for $140, which is more than I paid for the camera itself. 😭 I’m still on the search though and I am hoping I get lucky. Great video!
If you want one as a collector, they seem to be very rare. If you just want one to take selfies _with your K1000_ , there are cheaper 3rd party ones. If you simply want to take selfies, get a different camera.
I dont think those timers are very common anymore the whole k1000 you have there in excellent condition i don't think is common to find either I have 3 japan k1000s and they are used you can see but still in great working order anyways nice review and subscribed from a fellow south african
Thanks so much! That's interesting. I actually haven't done much research into the self-timer. Now you've made me curious. I got very lucky with my camera. I think the seller had basically never used it since it was new.
Great video man! Do you know whether + and - in light meter on each end is one stop or two stops? I can not find that information anywhere. thanks dude!
That's a very good question. I guess you could figure it out yourself. Centre the meter and then adjust your lens or shutter speed by one stop and see how far the needle moves!
Loved this video! Very informative. I’ve been looking into buying a Pentax but have come across same camera models but one has an “Asahi” print & some have a “honeywell” print. Does that have anything to do with the place they were made at, like you mentioned in your video?
I have a 1975 Honeywell Spotmatic F. My understanding is they are exactly the same as the Asahi equivalent. The Pentax sold in the USA (at that time) were marketed under the Honeywell brand.
Спасибо за обзор. У меня Гонконгский pentax k1000 с объективом pentax smc m 1.7 50mm... Обьектив оказался мутным... из-за склейки 2-х линз... Что можно сделать с объективом? Как удалить мутную пленку клеевого слоя между линзами?
You'll need to look for K-mount lenses. There are many different brands at many different price points. Pentax has used the K-mount for decades, so that's a good brand to start looking at.
Hello! Thanks for all this info! I have my mum's Asahi model she got when she was 18. I have been fiddling around with it for years but finally want to get more proficient at it. And I have what might be a dumb question... what is the difference between a camera being a "35mm" and using a "50mm" lens? What does the 35mm camera mean compared to the 50mm lens?
Cool! Not a dumb question at all! When we say a camera is a 35mm camera, we're referring to the film that it uses - 35mm film. It's the most common type of film you can get. A 50mm lens (or 105mm or 28mm, etc.) refers to the focal length of the lens itself. Think of it sort of like the field of view. A 50mm lens gives you a field of view with no distortion, similar to what your eye sees. That's why we tend to call 50mm lenses "standard" lenses. A 28mm lens gives you a wide-angle field of view (like a smartphone camera) and a 105mm lens gives you a telephoto (zoomed in) field of view. I hope that makes sense?
Good question! Try your local camera shops - but also charity shops and markets. They sort of pop up everywhere. Someone might even chuck one in for free if you buy something else.
I've never used one but from what I've read, they're awesome. Apparently the shutter speed dial on those only goes to 500 but you can just turn it one more click and you actually have 1/1000 of a second - it's just not marked. Also, all the Spotmatics take M42 screw-mount lenses (as opposed to the later K-Mount) which are cheap and plentiful and often excellent. Basically, if it's in good condition and you can get it for a fair price, I don't think you can go wrong.
The Spotmatic, Spotmatic II (or SP II), SP 500, SP 1000, KM, and K1000 were all basically the same design from 1965, but the two K's had a K mount grafted on in place of the M42 screw. The minor features such as whether they had a hot shoe, self-timer etc, varied between them. The SP 500 had no self-timer (like the K1000), or hot shoe, and as P-N said its 1/1000 speed was not marked. I undertand that, for marketing reasons, the speed was blocked beyond 1/500 by a stop in the shutter speed dial, but some owners removed the stop.
Bro, are you South African? Can't help but think so from your accent. If yes, is there any chance you could direct me to a reliable place to get old film cameras in SA? I've been looking around and it's kinda difficult.
I am indeed! vintagecameradeals.co.za/ - good but expensive. photographicgear.co.za/ - Good and more affordable. Otherwise, check Facebook Marketplace and Instagram. It's more risky but you can find bargains.
The early K1000s were all made in Japan from 1976 to 1978. From 1978 to 1990 production was shifted to Hong Kong, and then from 1990 to 1997 they were made in mainland China. The most noticeable change is in the material used. The late model ones saw the metal used for the bottom and top plates changed to plastic. This made a noticeable difference in weight. Some of the internal parts were also changed to different metals. Your second camera is a Japanese or Hong Kong model - the first one likely from China and these suffer from "desilvering in the viewfinder. You have the best one now.
Interesting! Thank you for this informative comment.
I bought my Asahi K1000 recently for $40! Perfect condition with a 28mm lens
Just picked one up yesterday and turns out it’s the Japanese model! Good stuff :)
Lucky! Happy shooting!
Just discovered my late grandfather's Pentax k1000 was still hiding in our home, camera bag, instructions, and all.
I'm almost afraid to handle it because it's in immaculate condition and it's one of the older metal ones.
I've only been doing DSLR photography for a couple years now and only just started considering getting a old Canon 35mm EOS body for cheap to use with my EF lenses, now that I know I have this, I'm still going to get the cheap EOS body just to practice with before I dare use my Grandpa's beautiful mechanical camera.
Amusingly I also dug up a Polariod Impulse AF that I bought as a kid because I was obsessed with instant cameras, it's in great shape to my surprise and I'm much less worried about trying it out so it's going to get a few new cartridges of film.
Lucky find! Honestly, you shouldn't be afraid to use the K1000. They were built to be used after all! Nothing sadder than a wonderful camera sitting on a shelf.
I understand the apprehension but I can't help but feel that you'd be losing out on the opportunity to use a classic camera - not to mention one with sentimental value. My favourite camera is my late grandfather's Pentax SV and every time I use it, I feel a connection to him somehow - even though he died before I was born.
My k1000 was my grandfathers aswell also found out it was the early solid metal Japan one so stocked he passed it down
A friend from work told me they had an LSR camera to sell me. He showed me sample pictures he took of his family trip to Disney World. They came out so nice. He said the camera was sitting in his closet for years. He sold it to me for $15. I took it out for it's first shoot at the St. Patrick's parade. I started shooting and it jammed. It ripped the film. I took it apart and remembered it having a plastic bottom. I bet it was a Chinese made model. I have just ordered a Hong Kong made camera. I don't want extra features at all! They overwhelmed me. I considered the famous Nikon F3, but it was too complicated to shoot form research I did. The Pentax K-1000 fits my needs.
Thanks for the video. I have a Japan made early version of this camera, bought it mostly for nostalgia as my father had one when I was young and all my childhood photos were taken with a k1000. I have recently added an sp1000 (Spotmatic) to the collection and prefer that one to the k1000. Something about the design I find really attractive, and as you say the lenses are excellent and readily available. I have a 50 1.4 which I love, has a unique dreamy effect when using a shallow depth of field.
Thanks for this comment! The Spotmatics look really cool - closer in design to my SV from the early sixties.
The SP1000 was the basis for the KM and the K1000, they used most of the same tooling. The main difference was that the SP's had a M42 lens mount, the K's had a K mount. The only other differences were minor features like whether they had a self-timer, hot shoe etc. They were all basically 1960's tech.
Great video! Just picked up one of these that's in near perfect condition for just $20 dollars and I hope to get some shots soon! I'll be my first attempt at shooting film. Can't wait to see the results! This video inspired me to get out there and just goahead and shoot my first roll. I've been putting it off too long
Wow! What a bargain! You really scored! Good luck and thank you for the awesome comment!
Hello, if you need, a photo teacher
I'm, the gentleman who, can help
You. I, can show you, the ropes.
To, make sharp pictures, by turning The focusing ring, and all about the camera.
Mine is spotless, I've had it since high school, it's 40 yrs old and still has the sync cover.
I have a 1981 K1000, I bought it new, it is good to use and accurate. I recall reading articles in the 90's. China made K1000s often did not work properly from new. They had many faults including shutter curtains that would come off after two or three frames were exposed from new. There was no quality control on the Chnia cameras and people were warning photographers not to buy them.
Interesting! That might explain the clear quality differences between my two cameras. Thank you for your comment.
Got mine since 1985, so probably it's a Hongkong made one, but it has been working perfectly ever since. Not a single issue in 38 years and I can't say it feels worse than my other Ks (KM and KX). I also have an ME and an LX, but those are completely different animals. Unfortunately, my MX died this autumn from crashing down violently which resulted in a heavily bent prism housing an a broken off rewind knob. What a pity, I loved the MX...
I have a Japanese one that my dad got as gift. The light no longer reads accurately camera still works well and original light seals still do their job.
That was a really good review with lots of good valid points. I have never seen a removable self timer before, I found them on eBay for $100!
Oh wow! That seems a bit pricey. I'll hang onto mine for a while and then sell it to buy a house in a few years.
I have never seen a Pentax one, didn't know they existed. There were 3rd party ones.
Your review of the K1000 inspired me to dig mine out of the closet to see which model it was, and it turned out to be an earlier model. It was also an SE version, which had a split screen for focusing in addition to the prism. Though beaten up, it feels and sounds good,, so I will have to find a roll of film to try tit out. Thanks for the inspiration.
Awesome! Doesn't really matter what it looks like, as long as it fires! Also, I think a bit of character is always a good thing. Happy shooting!
Pity it is in poor condition. A K1000 SE in good condition would fetch big money today. It could still be worth a lot.
I enjoy watching the changing album covers on the shelf behind you. Pentax SV = Bob Dylan, Pentax K1000 = Meatloaf Bat out of Hell (excellent album!) Good comments about condition vs brand. And that the K1000 was your dad's camera is the best reason that you should want one!
Well spotted! I was trying to change the covers as a sort of Easter Egg for people to find. Thank you for the comment. :)
Hi, these videos are really good. You come across well. It will be a hard slog for a while, then - probably in a few years, not months - it will all suddenly come together - in the meanwhile DON'T GIVE UP!! I started B/W photography and developing and printing over 50 years ago; passed my City & Guilds and gained LRPS; also did (mainly club) motorsport photography and wedding photography professionally (printing my own colour prints). There are a lot of very good professional photographers' UA-cams out there but you have something different and refreshing, which stands out. As you may have noticed, the headline product/theme tends to be what attracts the number of viewers but, over time, you should find that more and more people want to see your personal input. Probably thinking of what would make a popular theme for a couple of videos might help bump the numbers up. Just a thought. All the best, Glyn
Hi Glyn,
Thank you for this incredible comment. It makes me so happy that someone with your experience finds something to like in my videos.
The truth is, I didn't start making videos to get lots of likes and become famous! I really just wanted to contribute to the film photography community and feel like I was a part of it, like I was connected to the big wide world somehow.
I like your idea about a theme. I'm going to put some thought into it.
I have a couple more cameras to review - including my Nikkormat FTN and a really cool Zenit with a Helios lens.
Thank you again.
Wesley
I just got back into the 35mm Slr hobby and found your channel. New subscriber 👍🏻. It's sad that someone would sell their 21st birthday gift.
I've always had a USA purchased Honeywell Spotmatic F and since my passion has been reactivated, have since bought from Japan mint Olympus OM-1 and a Minolta SRT 101. I also found on Marketplace a like new Praktica MTL-3 (my dad had the same). I waiting for winter to start here (Canberra) and will binge on your content.
I bought mine in about '75. Japan. f1.4 50mm lens. 2 piece cover. Left it in storage with the battery in and it leaked a little, rendering the meter useless. Other than that it is pristine, and very useful. I've made 1000's of exposures with it, and it is now dedicated to B&W, with @home processing.
Nice! So cool to hear that the camera is still seeing regular use - even after all these years.
I have watched a ton of K1000 video reviews. YOURS has been THE BEST. I learned so much more your presentation. Thank you so much! I just ordered a Pentax K 1000 on eBay and I’m so excited about getting my hands on it and learning about film photography. Thank you for all your great info.
Thanks so much! I'm glad I could help. Happy shooting!
I totally agree with you, a working body is the most important - and with lens adapters you can do crossovers between brands. But I think this joy of a camera is somehow sadly suffering for its reputation. It's not dedicated to beginners, but since it was striped off everything fancy that would make your life easier - unlike a Canon AE Program - you really needed to learn how to use a semi-manual camera. Not for the noobs, but for the avid learners who don't fear the hard way. Also, beside the film size and the mirror lock up it shares the same features as most of the versions of the "very pro" Pentax 67. But I suppose people assume you know your way around with such a camera because of its size... Also, I've never heard someone disregarding points and shoots because they were for beginners. And still you can take pictures with your eyes closed, probably the result of a lifetime training. Ask Kendal Jenner. In your list of K1000's alternatives I'd add the Me Super (bright viewfinder and speed up to 1/2000) and the P30n. But only if you find a working one since they have their small share of electronics.
Thank you for this great comment. The Me Super does look really cool! In a funny way, I think real "professional" vintage cameras have very few automatic features. But that's sounding dangerously close to Leica snobbery and I won't go there!
The K1000 was recommended for beginners back when most cameras were manual anyway. Art and photog schools mandated them for years because they "forced" trainee pros and keen amateurs to learn exposure. In 1975, snapshot photogs were using Instamatics etc, not SLRs. Today, even pros don't expect to work the camera manually, even though they generally could.
I think the K1000 falls down for the user (even compared with some contemporaries like the Minolta SRT 101) because it is slow to work with, having no viewfinder display of shutter speed. Having composed and metered, you have to take it down from your eye to check the speed is sensible, before returning it to the eye for the shot. The Pentax 6x7 with metering head is the same (I've got one) but the 6x7 was not a sport, action or journalistic camera as you might expect a 35mm to be. In its day, apart from the art students, the K1000 was mostly bought by people simply because it was the cheapest big-brand SLR you could buy - Pentax deliberately made it so.
I have it and it's my favourite, even if the others I have are better in terms of features. Bought it (Asahi old version) on ebay more than ten years ago for around 100€ with 50mm f2 and original leather case and original Pentax red strap. It's still works perfect, a tank. It's so easy to use that is perfect for street ph.
Thanks for the info Japan/china versions, I didn't know it. Now I understand why there are models sold for 150€ and others for few euros.
Agreed! They really seem to keep going forever.
Found one in a thrift store yesterday, in very nice condition. Lacks lens cap, and no box or so, but otherwise really nice. Everything works, including the light meter. It's an Asahi model, fully metal body, and on the bottom it has a small sticker with "Japan" printed on it. I gave about 10 USD for it, which is probably a really good price, lol. 😂
Got one from my wife’s grandfather who was stationed in Japan. Still shoots great but the battery slot is broken and won’t open. Not sure if I should pay to get it fixed, or just keep the camera as is. Great video.
Oh, wow! A special camera indeed. Luckily the camera doesn't need a battery to fire, so if repairing it would break the bank, it's not too vital.
I have my father's Japan made and Pentax K1000 that he got as a gift. I have leather case too. I still use it. Those self timers accessories have been around for a long time for cameras actually had built-in timers.
Awesome delivery and honesty
Thank you!
I have a K1000 I bought in 1980 when I was 14 yrs old. Consider getting the 135mm F 2.8 bayonet k mount lens…..
Recently purchased a mint Pentax KM and i completely agree with you.
I'm struggling to find Kentmere 400 in Jo'burg, are you the one buying all of it? 😂
I wish! I actually bought a couple of bulk rolls from B&H in New York. Took months to get here and I had to pay like 300 bucks tax, but it still worked out way cheaper than buying bulk HP5+ here.
I'm shooting a lot of Fomapan 400 now (also from B&H) and I find I like it - but not quite as much as Kentmere. The Fomapan is grainier and has more "character", which is nice in some situations - but it doesn't push nearly as well as Kentmere, which I often shoot at 3200.
KM is better than a K1000. It has the self timer, mirror lock up, and a holder for the film carton end. It also had a "F" synchonised flash socket for flash bulbs. Otherwise they were identical. Also, as the KM was only made in the early days, there was never a cheap plastic Chinese version. Some K1000 fans claim those extra features are "confusing" - I'm confused why though.
Beautiful review. I was about to buy the wrong model 1st thing tomorrow morning.
Glad I could help!
Yesss, I have an older one! The only issue is the viewfinder is a tiny but scratched
mine's in the mail. can't wait to take it for a spin
Most informative review I’ve seen on this camera thank you.. 👏🏼
I had the good fortune of getting a restored/repaired one from probably 1978 as the serial number is on top, there’s a notch next to the rewind lever and the full “Asahi Pentax” is seen on front of the prism along with the “AOC” symbol on the prism.
take a shot every time he says “okay“
A level-headed review of the K1000, thumbs up. I don't know why people go bonkers over it - just a typical 1970's camera, low on features, Pentax's cheapest. Funny to describe the KM or KX as a "K1000 with _more features"_ , I'd word it differently. KX/KM/K2 came first, and then the KM was re-launched as the K1000 with _less features_ . The KX and LX are far superior to the KM or K1000. The KM was a Spotmatic with a K-mount.
Yes, true. I think it's a nice camera - but there are many nice cameras. In fact, I would argue that the majority of SLR cameras from any manufacturer of that time will be nice. Online Top Ten Lists have made the K1000 and Canon AE-1 very, very popular, and more expensive than they deserve to be.
However! That means there are bargains to be had elsewhere. All part of the fun, I think.
Hi,
Nice video.
I personally am not a big fan of the K1000 since it is extremely barebones and the design is not very appealing to me.
That being said I bought one from a lady off Facebook today. It was her personal camera which she used when she was young during her travels. So yes it has seen some action.
It says Asahi Pentax on the prism so it might be a Hong Kong made one. I found it to be in a very good condition. No problems with the shutter, all dials working fine and overall clean and well maintained.
The only problem is that the lens wouldn't come off the body and the battery compartment wouldn't open as well when I tried with a coin. Seems like years of disuse has had some effect in the form of rust on the mount release button and it isn't working due to that. My only worry is shouldn't have had a battery in it prior to storage. Else leakage and subsequent damage is a big possibility, which I sincerely hope isn't the case with this one.
Looks like a visit to the camera service center will fix it completely and it'll be like new again, ready for the field. Fingers crossed for that!
Cheers!
Oh no! I'm sorry to hear about the problems. I'm sure it's nothing that a good technician can't fix. I just hope it isn't too expensive!
@@positivelynegative7753
Yes, I hope so too!
Hi again!
I managed to unmount the lens from the camera body. Turns out I wasn't doing it the correct way with its release button. Looking at some manuals online helped me out. So now there remains only the battery compartment to be opened.
Woohoo!!! I am super stoked to have bought this one. Right after I picked up an almost new looking but non working Olympus OM-1 two weeks ago. Sadly the shutter mechanism on it is broken but the camera service center said they have the parts. Pretty expensive to repair but completely worth it, since the OM-1 is a historical little camera, a true jewel to look at and own.
Cheers!!!
I just found this channel 🤗⚡️. I’m now a subscriber!
Yay! Thank you!
I have tried looking for that specific self timer and only came across it on eBay for $140, which is more than I paid for the camera itself. 😭 I’m still on the search though and I am hoping I get lucky. Great video!
Oh, wow! That's crazy! Guess I got lucky. Good luck in your search!
If you want one as a collector, they seem to be very rare. If you just want one to take selfies _with your K1000_ , there are cheaper 3rd party ones. If you simply want to take selfies, get a different camera.
I got my K1000, Super program and a few Ricohs all kick ass, all use the same glass #Pentaxgang
I got a chinon camera two weeks ago, I also got the k1000 yesterday
Cool! Will be interesting to see how you compare the two.
Dig the Meatloaf record in the back my man
I dont think those timers are very common anymore the whole k1000 you have there in excellent condition i don't think is common to find either I have 3 japan k1000s and they are used you can see but still in great working order anyways nice review and subscribed from a fellow south african
Thanks so much! That's interesting. I actually haven't done much research into the self-timer. Now you've made me curious. I got very lucky with my camera. I think the seller had basically never used it since it was new.
Digging the Meatloaf record in the background.
I bought one for $9 from a used parts store, but I don’t know how to convert the photos to a format that allows them to be saved on modern phones.
I love mine and I am looking at picking up a Spotmatic with lens as well. Looking for more lenses and there are plenty to be had online.
Good stuff. Happy shooting!
My dad had one of these, fantastic little cameras
Nice. Extra points for Bat Out of Hell.
Well spotted! One of all-time favourites.
picked one for 85€ im so happy the condition is perfect
Sounds like you scored!
My k1000 doesn't have the emblem or say Asahi above Pentax, but it's a metal body
Interesting! Perhaps another user with more knowledge could give you more info.
Loved your video! Let me know if you want to sell your K1000 haha
I love it too much to let it go, unfortunately!
Pentax KM gang !!!
Great video man! Do you know whether + and - in light meter on each end is one stop or two stops? I can not find that information anywhere. thanks dude!
That's a very good question. I guess you could figure it out yourself. Centre the meter and then adjust your lens or shutter speed by one stop and see how far the needle moves!
I recently came across a Pentak K1000 SE. There is a smudge as well. Can it be cleaned and restored?
I, have a Pentax K 1000, camera and it's
Made in, Hong Kong. The pictures will knock
Your socks off.
Loved this video! Very informative. I’ve been looking into buying a Pentax but have come across same camera models but one has an “Asahi” print & some have a “honeywell” print. Does that have anything to do with the place they were made at, like you mentioned in your video?
I have a 1975 Honeywell Spotmatic F. My understanding is they are exactly the same as the Asahi equivalent. The Pentax sold in the USA (at that time) were marketed under the Honeywell brand.
Спасибо за обзор. У меня Гонконгский pentax k1000 с объективом pentax smc m 1.7 50mm... Обьектив оказался мутным... из-за склейки 2-х линз... Что можно сделать с объективом? Как удалить мутную пленку клеевого слоя между линзами?
Please advise on the lenses your camera can with and where I can buy them
You'll need to look for K-mount lenses. There are many different brands at many different price points. Pentax has used the K-mount for decades, so that's a good brand to start looking at.
I just bought one last Friday and it turns out to be the China made version and it does have the viewfinder smudge 😢
Where do you get the self timer??
Mine came in the box with the camera.
Hello! Thanks for all this info! I have my mum's Asahi model she got when she was 18. I have been fiddling around with it for years but finally want to get more proficient at it. And I have what might be a dumb question... what is the difference between a camera being a "35mm" and using a "50mm" lens? What does the 35mm camera mean compared to the 50mm lens?
Cool! Not a dumb question at all! When we say a camera is a 35mm camera, we're referring to the film that it uses - 35mm film. It's the most common type of film you can get.
A 50mm lens (or 105mm or 28mm, etc.) refers to the focal length of the lens itself. Think of it sort of like the field of view. A 50mm lens gives you a field of view with no distortion, similar to what your eye sees. That's why we tend to call 50mm lenses "standard" lenses. A 28mm lens gives you a wide-angle field of view (like a smartphone camera) and a 105mm lens gives you a telephoto (zoomed in) field of view.
I hope that makes sense?
@@positivelynegative7753 Wonderful answer.
@@jameshall5556 Thank you!
Great content.
Thank you!
Very good Video! 🙂👍👍👍
Thank you very much!
Ayyy bru lekker video!
Shot my bru!
Please advise where in SA I can buy camera straps?
Good question! Try your local camera shops - but also charity shops and markets. They sort of pop up everywhere. Someone might even chuck one in for free if you buy something else.
mine is a honeywell pentax, made of metal and from japan. i cant find a good representation of my model anywhere!
Interesting! Maybe it's very rare?
Informative
Thank you!
What do you think of the pentax sp 500.?¥
I've never used one but from what I've read, they're awesome. Apparently the shutter speed dial on those only goes to 500 but you can just turn it one more click and you actually have 1/1000 of a second - it's just not marked.
Also, all the Spotmatics take M42 screw-mount lenses (as opposed to the later K-Mount) which are cheap and plentiful and often excellent.
Basically, if it's in good condition and you can get it for a fair price, I don't think you can go wrong.
The Spotmatic, Spotmatic II (or SP II), SP 500, SP 1000, KM, and K1000 were all basically the same design from 1965, but the two K's had a K mount grafted on in place of the M42 screw. The minor features such as whether they had a hot shoe, self-timer etc, varied between them.
The SP 500 had no self-timer (like the K1000), or hot shoe, and as P-N said its 1/1000 speed was not marked. I undertand that, for marketing reasons, the speed was blocked beyond 1/500 by a stop in the shutter speed dial, but some owners removed the stop.
Bro, are you South African? Can't help but think so from your accent. If yes, is there any chance you could direct me to a reliable place to get old film cameras in SA? I've been looking around and it's kinda difficult.
I am indeed!
vintagecameradeals.co.za/ - good but expensive.
photographicgear.co.za/ - Good and more affordable.
Otherwise, check Facebook Marketplace and Instagram. It's more risky but you can find bargains.
@@positivelynegative7753 Thanks so much! Shall definitely check these out.
@@positivelynegative7753 Hey man, thanks for the tip! I ended up with a Nikkormat FT2.
First I thought I were on Analog Insights...
I love that channel too! Thank you.
❤ *PENTAX*
This model was made in Hong Kong and this one was made in China 😭😭😭😭😭