Pentax Program A

Pentax Program A 35mm SLR film camera

History and Presentation of the Pentax Program A

It's 1983, the heart of the film era. At that time, Pentax had already built a solid reputation in the world of photography. After the success of the Pentax ME Super, an option was obvious: create a camera for demanding amateurs, while making it more accessible.

And so the Pentax Program A was born, Pentax's answer to this question. It builds on the high-end model, the Super A, but is simplified without compromising quality. It aims to reach a wider audience by offering top performance without a prohibitive price tag. Our review unit is equipped with a Pentax 50mm f/1.7 lens.

Pentax Program A Technical Specifications

• 📷 Seiko MFC-E5 Shutter: The Pentax Program A is equipped with a Seiko MFC-E5 shutter with electromagnetic triggering. Unlike the ME Super, it does not offer any manual speed. It supports a frame rate of 3.5 frames per second and is compatible with the Motor Drive A of the Pentax Super A. The maximum shutter speed is set at 1/1000th of a second, and flash synchronization is set at 1/100th of a second.

• 💡 Reduced Features: To make it more affordable, some features have been reduced. The Program A no longer includes TTL flash or viewfinder illumination, and the LCD screen is removed. However, it retains essential features such as depth of field test, self-timer, exposure compensation, and magic needle loading.

• 🔄 Accessory Compatibility: All accessories designed for the Super A remain compatible with the Program A, including date backs, motors, and KA-mount lenses.

• 📜 Three Shooting Modes: The Program A offers three shooting modes: aperture priority, program mode, and manual mode. Shutter speeds are selected electronically via push buttons.

• 🔋 Clever: Several clever features are integrated. The maximum speed of 1/1000 of a second is automatically selected for film advancement. The viewfinder display indicates the battery level before it runs out, thus avoiding surprises during filming. In addition, an error message appears if the aperture ring remains on "A" outside of PROGRAM mode.

The Pentax Program A is a solid, well-built, capable camera, and is notable for its quiet shutter release and bright viewfinder. Although it is now considered a collector's item, it is far from obsolete. Its foundation even lasted until 1997 with the Pentax P30, a favorite among photography students.

• 🛡 Each device is thoroughly tested to ensure proper functioning.

• 📬 Your Pentax Program A will be carefully packaged for worry-free delivery.

• 🚀 Shipping is available internationally so you can capture moments anywhere in the world.

Please note that due to its vintage nature, the camera may show minor signs of wear, contributing to its unique charm. 📜