The Olympus PEN D, released in June 1962, was an eye-catching and stylish camera that appealed to both professionals and amateur photographers. It presented itself with a shiny chrome housing, black leather and the striking engraving “Olympus – PEN” and “PEN – D” on the top.
Compared to its predecessor, the PEN D offered some differences, both in terms of technology and design. One of the most striking differences was certainly the lens. It was an F.Zuiko lens with a focal length of 32mm and a maximum aperture of f/1.9.
This lens featured six lens elements in five groups and offered an aperture range of f/1.9 to 16, allowing the photographer to focus from as close as 0.8m to infinity.
The PEN D featured a selenium light meter positioned next to the viewfinder window. Thanks to a display on the top cap of the camera, the light values could be easily read. Despite this modern feature, exposure values and focusing had to be set manually. This was typical of many cameras at the time and gave the photographer some control over the image.
The PEN D’s shutter was a Copal X, offering shutter speeds from 1/8th to 1/500th of a second. There is also a bulb mode. The flash sync was X-type, meaning it was compatible with most popular flashes.
Despite being compact, the camera weighed around 400 grams and measured 108 x 67 x 50mm. Modern conveniences also included being battery-free, making her a reliable choice for longer trips.
When it was launched, the Olympus PEN D was priced at 13,800 yen, which was quite competitive considering its features and design. Today you usually pay 148,41 Euro for a used copy.
Suitable films for the Olympus PEN D
Which films are ideal for the Olympus PEN D? This model works with 35mm film, which is still available on the market and easily accessible despite the advance of digitization.
If you are looking for recommended films for this sleek camera from Japan, the Kodak Gold 200* for vivid color shots and the Ilford Delta 100* for impressive black and white images may be just the right thing for you. Of course there are also many other film options that harmonize with the PEN D.
The exposure size of the camera is 24mm x 18mm. This means that you can take up to 72 shots with this handy camera from a single roll of film.
Despite its compact design, the PEN D does not have an automatic film transport. After each individual shot, the photographer has to advance the film manually. Thankfully, there’s an easy-to-use thumbwheel on the back of the camera to make this process easier.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Half-frame camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Thumbwheel |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 18 mm |
| Lens name | F.Zuiko |
| Focal length | 32 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/1.9 |
| Minimum focus distance | 80 cm / 2.624 ft |
| Focus | Manual |
| Lens design | 6 elements in 5 groups |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1/8 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Selenium light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 10 to 400 |
| Exposure modes | Manual mode |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Size | 10,8 x 6,7 x 5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.25 x 2.64 x 1.97 inches |
| Weight | 395 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 148,41 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 99 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 150,24 Euro (162.36 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 128,02 Euro (138.55 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 141,96 Euro (152.62 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Olympus PEN D
What type of lens does the Olympus PEN D utilize, and what are its key specifications?
The PEN D features a Zuiko 32mm f/1.9 lens. This lens boasts six elements in five groups, offering a wide aperture range for versatile shooting.
How does the camera handle light metering and exposure settings?
It uses a selenium light meter, eliminating the need for batteries. Exposure settings, however, must be adjusted manually by the photographer.
What is the shutter speed range of the Olympus PEN D, and what type of flash sync does it offer?
The shutter speed ranges from 1/8 to 1/500 seconds, including a bulb setting. It features X-sync, ensuring compatibility with various flash units.
What film format does this compact camera use and approximately how many shots can you take on a roll?
The Olympus PEN D uses standard 35mm film. A single roll allows for roughly 72 exposures.
Considering its age and manual operation, what are some of the advantages of owning an Olympus PEN D?
Its compact size, battery-free operation, and classic design appeal to many photographers. Manual control gives users a deeper understanding of photography fundamentals.