Pentax LX

Pentax LX is the professional Pentax K-mount SLR — in production 1980-2001 (21 years), the pro-grade Pentax counterpart to Nikon F3 / Canon New F-1. The LX features interchangeable viewfinders, a sealed magnesium-alloy body, OTF (off-the-film) metering for precise long-exposure work, and full mechanical operation at all speeds (electronic shutter electronically controlled but mechanically capable down to 75 seconds at 1/2000-1/75; battery-independent).

Key features

• Pentax K bayonet
• Hybrid electromechanical shutter — 75s (auto) / 4s (manual) to 1/2000 + B; mechanical at higher speeds
• Interchangeable viewfinders — eye-level, action, waist-level, magnifier
• OTF metering — measures actual exposure during shutter operation
• Sealed magnesium-alloy body — weather-resistant
• Aperture-priority AE + manual modes
• Battery-independent for high shutter speeds; battery for AE and slow speeds

Practical notes

• LX bodies on used market: $400-900 working examples
• Sealed body construction makes the LX one of the few weather-resistant 35mm SLRs
• The matched Winder LX motor drive adds 5 fps capability

Related cameras

• Pentax K1000 / MX / ME Super — consumer K-mount siblings
• Nikon F3 — competitor pro
• Canon New F-1 — competitor pro
• Olympus OM-4Ti — competitor compact pro

Native lenses

Compatible with all Pentax K-mount lenses including the SMC Pentax-A series with full AE compatibility