Alistair...Has the instructor given any requirements for cameras to be used for the course? Generally, the list goes something like this:
- 35mm SLR
- Manual focus
- Built-in meter
- Manual exposure (both aperture and meter settable)
The last point is generally extended to include auto-exposure cameras that support full-metered manual as an option. Many instructors also request that the camera not require DX encoding on the film canister since bulk-loaded film into reloaded canisters is often the norm.
In the Pentax lineup, you would have multiple options, even adding in your desire for modern batteries and a bright viewfinder. My recommendations would include (in order of value):
- MX
- Super Program (Super A)
- Program Plus (Program A)
- ME Super
- LX
If you can manage a little more dimness in the viewfinder (also in order of value):
You may wonder why the K1000 and LX are at the bottoms of their respective lists. The reason being is that the K1000 is usually badly overpriced. The LX, despite being pretty much the ultimate Pentax film camera, is very expensive to purchase and maintain and probably not the best tool for a noob.
You might also want to consider non-Pentax options. The mid-1970s to mid-1980s is considered by some to be the golden age of film SLRs. Quality was uniformly high as were feature sets. Large, bright viewfinders were the norm. I would suggest any of the full-manual or aperture-preferred auto cameras from Nikon, Olympus, Minolta, or Ricoh (K-mount!). (I am not fond of Canon or Konica...
) A camera shop with good used inventory might be a good place to start.
As noted above, almost all used cameras (unless recently serviced) will require replacement of the film door seals and mirror bumper foams. Time and exposure to ozone from air pollution is hard on the seals and about 10 years is the expected life. Your can do the replacement yourself or pay to have it done.
Steve
P.S. Despite having several Pentax SLRs (including Super Program and KX), my "go-to" body is a mid-70s vintage Ricoh XR-2s.