Hi everyone,
I just got my hands on what may be a rare lens. I've come across quite a few Pentax lenses in my time, but I have never seen or heard of one like this one. A search on the web did not find anything either.
The lens itself is just an ordinary "A" version 50mm f/1.4 lens but it has an engraved "DEMO" marking on the barrel. As you can see from the close up photo, the engraving is professionally done and looks to be factory original.
I'd like to know if any of you have come across or heard of something similar? Perhaps on a different model lens?
Why was it marked as "DEMO"? Was it for a special exhibition or event organised by Pentax to promote the then new A series lenses?
It's possible that someone has engraved it after the lens has left the factory, but for what purpose? The quality of engraving suggests that it would not have been cheap to have it done. If it was for a store demo, it would have been more economical to use a paint marker or a sticker.
Your thoughts are most welcome.
Cheers,
Tom