SLR35mm
beginnerintermediate
Discontinued
Pentax Spotmatic
1964-1976
Huge M42 lens selection
Format
35mm
Shutter
1/1000
Max speed
Metering
TTL
Battery req.
Weight
570g
Best For
- Huge M42 lens selection
- Budget mechanical shooting
- Learning manual photography
- Collectors
Features
- TTL metering (revolutionary for its time)
- M42 screw mount (universal)
- Fully mechanical shutter
- Self-timer
- Depth of field preview
- Stop-down metering
Limitations
- Stop-down metering (not open-aperture)
- PX625 mercury battery discontinued
- M42 mount adapter needed for modern use
- No auto exposure
Common Issues to Check
- Mercury battery replacement needed
- Meter accuracy drift
- Sticky mirror
- Shutter timing issues at slow speeds
- Light seals need replacement
Buying Guide
The Spotmatic brought TTL metering to the masses. Uses M42 screw mount - thousands of lenses available worldwide. The Spotmatic F added open-aperture metering. Use Wein cells or adapter for battery. Check meter accuracy. The Super Takumar lenses are legendary for their rendering. A hugely important historical camera.
Pricing
Typical Range£40 - £100
Excellent Condition~£140
Very affordable; SP F version slightly more valuable
Prices as of 2026-01. UK market, may vary.
Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error