Camera · SLR
Pentax K1000
1976-1997
Discontinued35mmBeginner
Photography students
- Format
- 35mm
- Mount
- PENTAX K
- Metering
- Built-in
- Shutter
- 1/1000
- Battery
- LR44 or SR44 x1
- Weight
- 620g
Battery req.
Max speed
Best for
- Photography students
- Those wanting to master manual exposure
- Ultimate simplicity
Features
- Fully manual operation only
- Simple, reliable design
- Mechanical shutter
- Match-needle metering
- Hot shoe (X sync 1/60s)
Limitations
- No auto-exposure modes
- Basic feature set
- Meter requires battery (shutter doesn't)
Common issues to check
- Light meter problems
- Worn shutter speeds (check accuracy)
- Light seal deterioration
- Dented prism housing from impacts
Buying guide
The K1000 (1976-1997) is a fully manual SLR with a mechanical shutter and match-needle metering; the battery powers only the meter. Check the meter works and the shutter speeds are accurate. Many were used heavily.
Pricing
- Typical range
- £80 - £180
- Excellent condition
- ~£220
Often sold with a 50mm lens. Indicative, no dated source.
Prices as of 2025-12. UK market, may vary.
Specifications
| Format | 35mm |
| Years produced | 1976-1997 |
| Mount | PENTAX K |
| Shutter type | Focal Plane |
| Shutter speeds | 1s - 1/1000 |
| Flash sync | 1/60 |
| Metering | Average |
| Battery required | Yes (LR44 or SR44 x1) |
| Weight | 620g |
| Dimensions | 143 x 91.4mm (W x H); 83mm deep with 50mm f/2 |