Originally posted by Fogel70 K-500 might be Pentax most important release this year. It's no doubt much more important than FF in achieving Pentax goal, to increase market share.
I think it's the other way round. If they had a FF, Pentax would gain marketing momentum that would put its entire offer in a new light. Websites would start talking about FF and other cameras too, forums would start to brew, and the ripple effect would carry across positive vibe.
That is what Sony has done with the RX1 — that was outstanding, out of the blue, unexpected move that has secured Sony lots of fans and admiration. Now everyone waits for Sony to introduce FF Nex mount!
Pentax Ricoh have done just a moderately successful move (in comparison to RX1) with the new GR; not quite the same effect, but still good. They really need to pull out some heavy guns, and start playing some bold, strong, unexpected moves.
And everything else will fall into its proper place.
Pentax, pull out the bloody FF in whatever form, as a DSLR and as a compact camera, as soon as possible for the FF game is still hot and open to surprises. Steal the ball, grab the attention.