| Latest Review Posted | Pentax Spotmatic II
Things I like about the Spotmatic SPII:
1) I really love the M42 lenses and this is the best M42 camera of the four I've used. M42 lenses are great quality-to-cost ratio for someone like me that is late to the film game.
2) The handling of this camera is just fantastic. It feels great in the hand and is an absolute joy to handle. It balances really well with longer focal length lenses, so I often use it with the S-M-C 85/1.8 or the Takumar 200/3.5.
3) Film loading and rewinding is easy to do.
Things I dislike about this camera:
1) With my aging eyes, viewfinder brightness and ease of use is one of the most important components of any film camera. This one is not as bright as my MX or Konica IIIA viewfinders, and lacks the split prism I love on the MX.
2) I wish it had Mirror lock up. Even so, I've captured some nice photos at low shutter speeds.
I got my SPII in 2021 for $62 with a Super-Multi-Coated 50mm f/1.4 and a leather case. All in good shape, but poorly advertised and photographed, so I was taking a chance, but at that price I was willing to take the risk. Got a CLA from Eric and new leather from Hugo Studio and it is working great and looks awesome. Some cameras are so cheap you have to ask yourself, is it worth it to CLA this camera? That should be an affirmative answer with the Spotmatic II, even if the acquisition price is dirt cheap. Please keep these cameras well-maintained and in circulation by people who will use them! If you get a chanc... |
