Camera · SLR
Pentax LX
1980-2001
Discontinued35mmAdvancedProfessional
Professional Pentax K-mount work
- Format
- 35mm
- Mount
- PENTAX K
- Metering
- Built-in
- Shutter
- 1/2000 manual; up to 125s in auto
- Battery
- LR44 x2 or SR44 x2
- Weight
- 570g
Battery req.
Max speed
Best for
- Professional Pentax K-mount work
- Harsh conditions
- Long-term reliability
- System camera needs
Features
- Gaskets against dust and moisture
- Aperture-priority auto exposure
- Interchangeable viewfinders
- Interchangeable focusing screens
- Mechanical X (1/75s) to 1/2000s and B without batteries
- TTL flash metering
- Winder LX and Motor Drive LX compatible
Limitations
- Expensive even used
- Parts becoming scarce
- Flash sync speed slow
- Heavier than MX
Common issues to check
- Winder coupling wear
- Electronic board failures
- Viewfinder seal deterioration
- Light meter drift
- Sticky aperture linkage
Buying guide
The LX (1980-2001) was Pentax's professional system body, in production for about 21 years, with dust and moisture gaskets. The mechanical shutter works from 1/75 (X) to 1/2000 and B without batteries. Check all mechanical speeds, test aperture-priority and verify the seals. Service can be costly.
Pricing
- Typical range
- £350 - £700
- Excellent condition
- ~£900
Titanium and gold versions command a premium. Indicative, no dated source.
Prices as of 2026-01. UK market, may vary.
Specifications
| Format | 35mm |
| Years produced | 1980-2001 |
| Mount | PENTAX K |
| Shutter type | Focal Plane |
| Shutter speeds | 4s - 1/2000 manual; up to 125s in auto |
| Flash sync | 1/75 |
| Metering | Center Weighted |
| Battery required | Yes (LR44 x2 or SR44 x2) |
| Weight | 570g |
| Dimensions | 144.5 x 90.5 x 50mm |