Originally posted by aleonx3 I like the design, very refreshing... unlike other brands, simply boring and confusing model numbers. Putting two dials in the entry level camera is probably first of its kind, probably good for Pentax to differentiate itself from the rest.
Hear that a lot regarding Pentax lately, "refreshing". It's certainly very distinctive, and it's gotten a lot of press, but is it successful?
Pentax steered clear of the red hot retro bandwagon (PEN, OM-D, FUJI X), a trend they were uniquely qualified to participate in but only played with briefly with the (now discontinued?) Q, and is seemingly putting all its chips in "futuristic". I'm not sure that's a niche photo people want filled.
High-tech newcomers not burdened with nostalgia are drawn to the consumer electronic designs of Sony and Panasonic, and that makes sense coming from those companies. Unlike Pentax, those brands aren't traditional photo brands, having dumped SLRs altogether. Pentax, like this camera (and the K-01), is becoming an anachronism. Wrapping old technology in a new futuristic skin, when it seems it's the opposite people want.