Hello,
Am I dreaming? If I am, please don't wake me up!
In the car hobby, there is an old saying that says you are not an owner, just the current custodian of a historical piece.
Thanks to forum member Bill (Steamloco76) I am now the current custodian (new owner) of an ASAHI PENTAX. The first one. The original. The one and only. The camera that was so pivotal in the history of the company that it changed the name from Asahi Optical to Pentax as we know today.
I honestly did not think I would be able to get my hands on one of these. But good things happen to those who wait.
The Asahi Optical Company was literally destroyed during WWII. After the war, it was allowed to regroup and restart. In 1952, they introduced the Asahiflex camera with good success.
In 1957, they introduced this camera: The "Asahi Pentax", also known now as the "AP". It was not the first pentaprism camera, but it is considered the first successful pentaprism SLR camera with instant return mirror and rapid winding lever (instead of a knob) that set the basic layout for 35mm cameras for decades to come. Every SLR and DSLR today can trace their origins back to this camera. It started the revolution that ended the rangefinder dominance and established the SLR as the system of choice.
While the Asahiflex used the M37 mount, this new camera used the M42 mount. Again, it was not invented by them, but it became so popular that to this date it is usually called the Pentax Screw mount. In the US, Sears sold this camera under the name Tower 26.
This camera made a splash at the photography scene. The company even changed their name from Asahi Optical Company to Pentax.
According to my research, about 19,500 were made. It was followed by the S model in 1958 and then the K model later the same year ('58). I refer to these 3 as the "Trifecta".
The subsequent S (H) series of cameras (which I have documented elsewhere in this forum) was the continuation of the basic design of this one. Constantly improving but staying true to the original.
Can you tell I'm excited?
So this particular one has little signs of use. A few tiny scratches here and there and a little ding on top. But it still looks great! Keep in mind, it is about 63 years old!
But more important, it is in perfect working order!
The serial number identifies it as an early unit.
It is very clean and buttery smooth. Here are pictures of it as I received it. I will deep clean it as usual (as a maniac who never claimed to be normal) but there is not much more to improve.
A shoutout to Bill (steamloco76) for the excellent packing of the camera.
Not in the pictures but it also includes an original leather case.
This camera will serve dual purposes: It will be the centerpiece of my humble collection but it will also be respectfully used.
I think a Takumar 55 1.8 and a BW roll will soon join it.
Can you tell I'm excited?
Thanks!
Ismael
Last edited by ismaelg; 09-16-2020 at 05:29 PM.