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Introduced in 1976 as part of the M series of 35MM film cameras the Pentax MX accepts K mount lenses and has a full compliment of accessories. M Series Pentax SLRs were significantly smaller and lighter than their predecessor K series but still very durable and robust. The MX is an all manual camera with excellent 'Center Weighted' metering. The only limitation is the flash synchronization speed of 1/60th second; slower than some of the other cameras in the series. Paired with the Pentax M 40mm f2.8 'Pancake' lens the MX is an outstanding street camera; smaller than some point and shoot cameras. Mine is currently wearing the very capable Pentax M 40 - 80mm Macro zoom lens and is also a joy to use.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I bought my first MX in 1979. It was used (less than 3 years old) and came with a 50mm F1.4 lens and a winder. It was and remains my favorite camera even though the meter stopped working 6-8 years later. My most recent MX, the one being reviewed, feels good in the hand, the controls respond well and the meter works. The major problem, which earned it 4 stars instead of 5 is that it has apparently been dropped on its' prism housing. The hot shoe is slightly misaligned but worse is the fact that both the hot shoe and the x-sync port are shorted out, presumably as a result of the fall. When a flash is attached to either the hot shoe or the x-sync port, it fires as soon as it is charged and repeats the cycle for as long as it is mounted/connected. In retrospect, after handling the camera, I'd have bought it anyway. It's worth fixing. It is smaller than the next-best fully-manual Pentax. the K1000 (I have 3 of those, too), has a depth of field preview button and takes a winder. I'm glad to add this camera body to my photo tool kit.Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
My father gave me a Pentax MX and three fast Pentax M prime lenses when was around 10 and I used this camera for around 30 years. When it became increasingly difficult to get film and process, I had to switch to digital which was a complete let down. The MX is nearly perfect. You control everything, the ergonomics are unmatched, the viewfinder bright and precise for focusing, there's even a lever for deep of field checkout. Only thing missing is multiple exposition. When I got the camera, I really wanted a Canon A-1 with the 80-200 mm zoom, but later understood the MX is a vastly superior SLR and prime lenses speed, sharpness and bookeh can never be matched by zooms. The camera is very compact, I'm not sure why people complain about lack of program modes and autofocus, I'm able to set up the camera extremely quickly. After some time you just check the metter to see if you have set the exposition right, not really because you need it. The camera is fully manual, of course, will work without batteries. It was the best Pentax 35 mm pro camera, with motor drive and 250 expositions and other advanced options. They took a different approach from Canon F1 and Nikon F2 cameras and made a true classic in the process.Read full review
Verified purchase: No
I cannot believe I have managed to find a Pentax MX in this fantastic condition with it's original box and papers! It has to be at least 35 years old and considering many have been left to deteriorate in the backs of cupboards because digital photography has wiped out film as the dominate photographic technology of the modern age or many others have been worn out by student photographers, who regard them as a favourite to learn the basics of the art of taking great images, then I can only consider myself as very fortunate to have finally obtained one in this condition. Of course the only problem with this and that is now, I want to take it out and put a roll of film through it!! So that is now my dilemma, keep it as a "shelf queen" or use it for what it was designed for - taking photos. I think I will choose the latter option and try to be very careful with this little icon of Japanese SLR design and believe me, I do love digital photography, but there is no better feeling than using a mechanical, manual focus, 35mm single reflex camera, as these cameras have a feel and a quality that is in most respects, very different to a modern digital camera and that is something many younger photographers will not be able to experience in the years to come.Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I like Pentax M series and A series most. Their designs are classical and nice. This camera is valuable because of being a fully mechanical camera. It is made of light metal and is has a compact body design. These are the main good features. Mainly I bought this camera body just to have one sample. I can take pictures with it. If this camera should have depth of field prewiev button and multi exposure button it would be a perfect camera. Time to time this camera needs shutter tuning.