The Ricoh XR 500 camera model comes from the house of Ricoh. This camera can be classified in the group of SLR cameras. It was introduced in Japan in September 1978. The price of 39,800 yen was an important selling point at the time.
A technically identical device was offered on the world market as the Ricoh KR-5. The 35mm camera was also sold under the name “Sears KS 500”.
Lenses on the 35mm camera can be exchanged if necessary. All lenses with a Pentax K-mount can be mounted. Since the model does not have an automatic focusing system, the focus must be manually adjusted by the photographer on the lens.
The built-in exposure meter assists in determining the correct exposure. The metering system is designed for films with a sensitivity of ISO 12 to ISO 3200. Measurement is taken through the camera’s lens directly onto the film or sensor area. The selection of aperture and shutter speed must be done manually by the user.
For shots with unlimited exposure time, the housing has a Bulb setting. An external flash unit can be combined with the camera via the existing hot shoe if required. The Ricoh XR 500 can be triggered using either the integrated self-timer or a mechanical cable release. An existing thread allows the camera to be mounted on a tripod to prevent blurring.
The dimensions of the 35mm camera are specified in the manual as 13.9 x 9.1 x 5 cm. The weight of the housing is 540 grams. Two S76 batteries (eBay / Amazon*) are required for the camera’s operation, providing the necessary energy.
Films for the Ricoh XR 500
According to the technical specifications, the Ricoh XR 500 is intended for the use of 35mm films. Due to the continued popularity of the 35mm format, various manufacturers continue to produce suitable film material. Examples of usable films in the Ricoh XR 500 include the Kodak Gold 200* and the Ilford HP5*. Beyond these products, there are many other suppliers who offer films for this type of camera.
Color films are usually developed using the standardized C-41 process. Most photo labs can easily perform this type of film development.
The effective image area of the camera is 24 mm x 36 mm. A motorized film transport is not present, so the film must be manually advanced by the user after each shot.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Quick release lever |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Pentax K lens mount |
| Focus | Manual |
| Exposure times | 1/1000 second to 1/8 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 12 to 3200 |
| 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 | Hot Shoe |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | 2x S76 batteries |
| Size | 13,9 x 9,1 x 5 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 5.47 x 3.58 x 1.97 inches |
| Weight | 540 Grams |
| Names in other markets | International: Ricoh KR-5 |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 73,04 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 14 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |