Pentax MX

Format: 35mm All Manual SLR


Features

Shutter:  1s-1/1000s + Bulb all mechanical.  Flash sync 1/60s.

Metering:  Three colour 5 LED centre weighted.

Flash:  Prism mounted hot shoe and PC connector for X (strobe) and M
(flashbulb).

Motorwind:  Manual advance (optional winder and motordrive).

Other:  Depth of field preview.  ASA must be manually set 25-1600.
Locking shutter release.  Self timer 4 - 12 seconds.

Viewfinder:  95% of the picture-taking area is visible, finder provides
0.97X magnification with 50mm lens at infinity.  In viewfinder
indications of shutter speed, aperture, and meter.

Included Accessories:  Leather case, narrow neckstrap, plug in PC
connection cover.

Optional Accessories:  Winder, Motor drive, focussing screens, Bulk
back, Right angle finder, date imprinting back.


Handling

I bought this camera because I wanted a reliable backup for my MZ-5n
that could do multiple exposures and long bulb exposures without
draining the batteries.

I soon found myself using the camera most of the time (in the first few
months I owned it).  It has the classic SLR control layout used by
almost all manufacturers at that time.  The quality of this camera is
impressive;  it just feels great and solid in my hands.

It is quick and easy to use the controls and the handling of the M
lenses match the camera wonderfully.  Using the later auto-focus lenses
is not so great as the focusing rings feel loose and sloppy.

Prime lenses are the way to go as they are usually fast enough to give
a nice bright image for focusing.


Compatibility

Pentax keeps both forward and backward compatibility with all its camera
bodies and lenses (except you can't put K-mount lenses on the really old
screwmount bodies).  This means that you can put the latest autofocus
lens on the MX and use it like any of the original M lenses.

Unfortunately, the latest digital flashes like the AF500FTZ will only
work in Manual mode on the MX since they have no light sensor.


Performance

I have been very happy with the meter in this camera, it performs very
well even under low light conditions.

Despite being 10 to 20 years old when I recently brought it in for
cleaning and calibation all the shutter speeds were still right on
and the meter was working perfectly.

I expect to get many more years of service from this camera.


Irritants

After I had been using the camera for a while I had very little to
complain about.  I have heard that when shooting into the sun the little
window that reads the aperture gets too bright but I haven't experienced
this myself.

The inherent difficulties of an all manual camera eventually caught up
with me and I found myself reaching for the MZ-5n more often.  Sometimes
you just don't want to take the time (or you don't have the time) to set
everything up before you shoot, no matter how easy it is.

I now find myself using it about one quarter to one third of the time.


Price

Since the MX is no longer being manufactured it must be purchased used.
The price of this camera on the used market ranges from $100 to $250
depending on the condition.


Conclusion

A real jewel of a camera, sturdy, reliable and a joy to use.