Introducing the Asahi Pentax Spotmatic II Film Camera
The Asahi Pentax Spotmatic II, also known as the Asahi Pentax SPII or the Honeywell Pentax SPII, is a legendary film camera that was first released in 1971. It was a highly popular camera among professional photographers and enthusiasts for its advanced features and exceptional image quality. The Spotmatic II is a manual focus, single-lens reflex (SLR) camera that offers a wide range of shooting options and precise control over exposure settings.
**Specifications and Features**
The Asahi Pentax Spotmatic II boasts a solid build quality and a timeless design that continues to captivate photographers even today. Here are some of the key specifications and features of this iconic film camera:
1. **Film Format:** The camera is compatible with 35mm film, allowing you to capture high-resolution images with rich details and vibrant colors.
2. **Lens Mount:** The Spotmatic II utilizes the M42 screw mount, which gives you access to a vast selection of high-quality lenses, ensuring versatility and flexibility in your photography.
3. **Shutter:** The camera is equipped with a vertically traveling, metal focal plane shutter. It offers a wide range of shutter speeds, ranging from 1 second to 1/1000th of a second, allowing you to capture fast-moving subjects or create long-exposure effects.
4. **Light Metering:** The Spotmatic II features a built-in through-the-lens (TTL) light metering system. This reliable light meter helps you accurately determine the exposure settings for your shots, ensuring optimal results.
5. **Exposure Control:** The camera provides full manual exposure control, allowing you to adjust the aperture and shutter speed according to your creative vision. The viewfinder displays a match-needle metering system that helps you achieve proper exposure.
6. **Battery:** The Spotmatic II requires a mercury battery, which can be challenging to find due to environmental regulations. However, modern alternatives like zinc-air batteries can be used with slight modifications.
**Why Choose the Asahi Pentax Spotmatic II?**
The Spotmatic II remains highly regarded among professionals and vintage camera enthusiasts for several reasons:
1. **Exceptional Build Quality:** The camera’s robust construction ensures durability and longevity, making it a reliable companion for years to come.
2. **Superb Optics:** The M42 lens mount provides access to a wide range of high-quality lenses from various manufacturers, allowing you to achieve excellent image quality and explore different creative possibilities.
3. **Manual Control:** The Spotmatic II offers full manual control over exposure settings, enabling photographers to have complete creative freedom and fine-tune their shots to perfection.
4. **Classic Appeal:** The timeless design and legacy of the Spotmatic II make it a cherished collector’s item for photography enthusiasts. Owning this camera is like owning a piece of photographic history.
**Availability and Pricing**
If you’re interested in getting your hands on an Asahi Pentax Spotmatic II, you can find them on various online marketplaces, specialty camera stores, or through private sellers. The price for a used Spotmatic II typically ranges from $150 to $300, depending on its condition, included accessories, and the rarity of specific models or limited editions.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring film photographer, the Asahi Pentax Spotmatic II is a fantastic camera that brings joy, creativity, and a touch of nostalgia to your photographic journey. Its exceptional build quality, manual control, and superb optics make it a reliable and inspiring tool for capturing beautiful images with a unique charm that digital cameras simply can’t replicate.
