Pentax MX by Asahi Optical, commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Japan Camera Show. Limited to just 20 units, it was released in March 1979.
The Pentax MX is a high-end model featuring a lightweight, compact body with built-in TTL exposure metering. It supports external motor drives and winders for automatic film advance. It comes with the SMC Pentax-M 50mm f1.4 standard lens in Pentax K mount.
Included are lens front cap, original box, strap, shoulder pad, warranty certificate, new but unusable battery, Japanese instruction manual, lens and accessory catalogs, price list, and Pentax Family payment notification.
It appears to have been sold at Takashimaya's camera department at the time, with accompanying service advisory notes mentioning that leather repairs would typically result in black leather.
The warranty certificate was issued in March 1979 at Takashimaya Osaka branch, making it a rare find.
There are no signs of use from photography; the appearance is nearly like new. There are slight scratches on the transparent protective seal attached to the bottom. The previous owner purchased it and kept it as part of their collection without using it.
The shutter operates correctly, and the viewfinder is clear. The light meter operates about two stops overexposed.
The lens showed haze and fungus, so it was serviced by a specialist in June 2024. Despite the service, there are still slight haze due to balsam separation and traces of fungus around the edges of the middle element. The fungus has been removed, so there is no risk of further growth.
While the lens has some minor issues, the body and accessories are suitable for a collection. A rare find.
