The Asahi Pentax KM is a classic 35mm manual focus SLR film camera produced in Japan by Asahi Optical Co. between 1975 and 1977. Released alongside the legendary K2 and KX as part of the original Pentax K-mount lineup, the KM directly evolved from the iconic Spotmatic F, introducing native K-bayonet lens compatibility while retaining the straightforward mechanical reliability of its predecessor. Features a fully mechanical horizontal rubberised cloth focal plane shutter with speeds from 1s to 1/1000s plus Bulb, open-aperture TTL CdS match-needle metering, depth-of-field preview lever, mechanical self-timer, and hot shoe with PC sync socket. Serial number 8301653. Paired with an ultra-sharp SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.7 prime lens (Serial No. 6461822). Complete with front lens cap.
Overall Condition: Very Good / Fully Working
Cosmetically in well-preserved vintage condition with light wear, superficial marks, and gentle edge patina on the chrome top and bottom plates. Black leatherette body covering is intact and firm. Viewfinder is clear with minor dust specks typical for vintage SLRs. Mechanical shutter operates across all speeds, film advance lever winds smoothly, and film chamber/shutter curtains are clean. Light meter needle responds accurately to light changes. SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.7 lens optics are clear with bright Super Multi-Coating; focus ring turns smoothly and aperture blades are clean and snappy. Fully tested and operational.
The Pentax KM holds a special place in 35mm SLR history as the direct mechanical bridge between the M42 thread-mount Spotmatic era and the modern K-mount system. Often overshadowed by its younger, smaller sibling the K1000, the KM is actually superior in specification—offering a built-in depth-of-field preview lever and a mechanical self-timer that the K1000 lacks. Paired with the sharp SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.7, it remains one of the finest all-metal mechanical SLR packages for film photography students and vintage camera enthusiasts alike.
Asahi Pentax KM, Pentax KM 35mm, Pentax K Mount SLR, SMC Pentax M 50mm f1.7, Vintage Pentax SLR, Spotmatic Successor, Mechanical Film Camera, Tested Pentax Camera
Note that all the photographs are of the item for sale that you will receive. If you notice that the photographs in any way do not match the title or description please contact me and let me know.
I will carry out a standard set of testing for all equipment I am selling and will highlight any issues found as well as the perceived condition of the item. Not all tests will be appropriate for a specific camera or lens, but the appropriate ones will be carried out.
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| Grade | Condition |
| Mint | As new condition, no marks, fully working |
| Excellent | very minor usage marks detected, fully working |
| Very good | Some minor usage marks or small scratches, fully working |
| Good | Marks consistent with use, minor wear on edges, small scratches, fully working |
| Fair | Heavier wear marks, possibly some minor issues with functionality, but usable |
| Poor | Heavy wear, not fully working, would require work, should be considered as a renovation project |
Notes of Condition
Please note the following:
Shipping
The item will be shipped within 2 working days after your payment has been received & cleared. It will often be sent quicker than this.
All items will be sent securely packaged. Please note that although the majority of packing materials we use are new, we will reuse materials when available and encourage all of our customers to do the same.
Items below £150 in value will be sent by Royal Mail 48, those above this value will be sent via Special Delivery in the UK.
We are happy to send internationally.
Returns
All items sold come with a 30 day no fuss return guarantee with the exception of items sold as faulty or for parts.