Morphic,
The K series were introduced in 1975 for use with the K family of camera bodies. This marked the end of the Pentax screw mount era. Most of these K series lenses, according to Danilo Cecchi in his book Asahi Pentax and Pentax SLR 35mm Cameras 1952-1989, were based on the renowned SMC Takumar designs. “The optical units of the SMC Takumar lenses were assembled on bayonet mounts and reintroduced onto the market under a different name.” (Cecchi, 181) If you glance though the site’s lens database you will find some of the finest Pentax glass: the 85mm 1.8, 135/2.5, 200/2.5 and 15/3,5 for example were part of this generation.
Physically, the K series are quite a bit larger and heavier than their M series counterparts. They are all metal in construction as are the M series. Most M series lenses were entirely new optical designs however. Danilo Cecchi notes the “optical layouts for the M series were the result of “careful study and sophisticated computer calculations.” (Cecchi, 184). Computer design in the mid 1970s was a pretty new idea. The M series, as a rule, has not been as highly regarded as the K and later A series for some reason. I don’t believe this to be true as the M Club has demonstrated in this forum but the perception is out there IMO.
By 1980 the smaller, lighter M series camera bodies (MX, ME Super, MV etc.) and lenses had pretty much replaced the K series. All manufactures were producing smaller and lighter equipment by this time led by Olympus.
Both the K and M series had SMC coatings but the coating formula seems to change from time to time. It appears to have a bluish cast on most SMC K lenses but on some others, my M 35mm f 2 it has a slight magenta cast.
In any case as I look at shots from the K Club it seems to my eye the images have a slightly differ look to them than M series glass. It may be the result different lens coatings or optical designs but I think they have a different look. It probably doesn’t really matter as they all look pretty good to me
Cecchi, Danilo. Asahi Pentax and Pentax SLR 35mm Cameras 1952-1989. Hove : Hove
Photo Books, 1990.
This book suffers a bit in the translation from the Italian but provides a good history of Pentax lenses and cameras from the early 1950s through 1989. The Wikipedia article draws heavily from this source.
Pentax - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
Tom G