Pentax ME-F

The Pentax ME-F is a historic SLR camera and a milestone in photographic technology. It was built by Pentax from 1981 to 1984 and is considered the world’s first SLR camera with an integrated TTL (Through-the-Lens) autofocus system in the body.

Camera Features

The lenses of the 35mm camera can be changed. The camera offers the possibility to use lenses with a Pentax KF mount. This special mount is an extension of the proven K-bayonet and has additional electronic contacts for the autofocus function.

Mostly, one encounters the 35mm camera with the lens specially developed for it, the SMC Pentax-AF 35-70mm f/2.8. The Pentax ME-F features a unique hybrid focusing system:

Autofocus: In conjunction with the AF zoom lens 35-70mm, the camera offers full autofocus. The lens itself requires four dedicated AAA batteries to drive the focus motor.

When using conventional manual K-mount lenses (or older screw-mount lenses with an adapter), the system transforms into an electronic focusing aid. Arrows are displayed in the viewfinder, indicating the direction of rotation for the focus ring. When focus is sharp, a green LED lights up, accompanied by an optional audible signal.

Thanks to the integrated exposure meter, the camera determines the optimal exposure settings. The ASA/ISO range can be set from 12 to 1600. Center-weighted TTL metering (through the lens) ensures precise results.

Users have various exposure modes available. Aperture Priority, where the camera automatically selects the appropriate shutter speed for the pre-selected aperture. The shutter speed can be manually selected via pushbuttons in 14 steps from 1/2000s to 4s.

A purely mechanical shutter speed of 1/125s, which also works without batteries and is used for flash synchronization. For long exposures, where the shutter remains open as long as the shutter release is pressed.

A “L” (Lock) position on the mode dial locks the shutter release to prevent accidental shots.

An external flash unit can be used via the hot shoe connector or the PC sync socket. The flash synchronization speed is 1/125s.

The camera can be stabilized using a tripod, as it has an integrated tripod thread. There is also a connection for a cable release and a mechanical self-timer with a delay of 4 to 10 seconds.

The 35mm camera weighs 480 grams (body only, without batteries).

Which battery does the Pentax ME-F need? The camera body itself is powered by 4x S76 silver oxide batteries (or equivalent types like SR44). (eBay / Amazon*)

Films for the Pentax ME-F

The 35mm format is the film format for which the Pentax ME-F is designed and it exposes corresponding films. 35mm films are still produced today and can be developed without problems by most photo labs.

Kodak Portra 160* is recommended for color images with this camera, while for B/W shots Ilford XP2 Super* is recommended. Both films are well-suited for everyday use and perform well in reviews. Besides this manufacturer, many other companies produce films for this format.

The Pentax ME-F exposes an area of 24mm x 36mm. With a common 35mm film, the 35mm camera can take about 36 shots. Film loading is facilitated by Pentax’s “Magic Needle Loading System”. The photographer must manually advance to the next frame using the rapid winding lever.