The Pentax 17 is a compact half-frame 35mm film camera launched by Ricoh Imaging in June 2024. It is designed to capture half-size photographs with a frame size of 24x17mm on 35mm film.

The key features of the Pentax 17 35mm film camera are:

Lens and Focus

• Fixed 25mm focal length lens (equivalent to 37mm on 35mm format)

• Maximum aperture of f/3.5

• Zone focusing system with 6 manual focus zones

Viewfinder

• Albada bright-frame viewfinder

• Composition frame and close-distance composition frame displayed

Exposure Control

• Partial metering system with EV range of 2.5 to 16.5 (ISO 100)

• Exposure compensation of ±2 EV in 1/3 EV steps

• Shooting modes: Full Auto, Program AE, Aperture Priority, Bulb, Daylight Sync, Slow Sync

Shutter and Flash

• Program AE electronic shutter with speeds from 1/350 to 4 seconds, plus Bulb

• Built-in flash with guide number of 6 (ISO 100, meters)

Other Features

• Manual film winding using lever and manual rewind

• Uses one 3V CR2 lithium battery (approx. 10 rolls per battery)

• Dimensions: 127 x 78 x 52 mm, Weight: 290g (without battery

While image quality may be compromised due to the smaller half-frame format, Pentax is aiming to create an engaging, stylish, and cost-effective film photography experience by blending modern conveniences with manual controls and classic design cues. It is aimed at the first-time user of Film Photography.

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