Pentax 17 - Half Frame 35mm Film Camera
At a glance: Pentax 17 - new-production half-frame 35mm film camera from Pentax, 2024 release.
About this camera
The Pentax 17 is Pentax's 2024 new-production half-frame 35mm film camera - a surprise release reviving film-camera manufacturing. Half-frame means 2 exposures on each standard 35mm frame, doubling roll capacity. Zone-focus, simple controls, modern build quality in a heritage-inspired camera.
Build & handling
| Type | Half-frame 35mm film camera (new production) |
|---|---|
| Film format | 35mm (135) - half-frame (2x standard exposure count) |
| Lens | Fixed 25mm f/3.5 Pentax lens |
| Focus | Zone focus (6 positions) |
| Metering | Programmed auto-exposure |
| Flash | Built-in |
| Weight | 290g |
Works with
- Uses 35mm (135) film - any standard 35mm film
- Half-frame format: 72 images on a 36-exposure roll
Best for
A notable 2024 release - one of the few new film cameras being produced by a major Japanese manufacturer. Half-frame format gives 72 exposures on a standard 36-exposure 35mm roll, doubling film economy. Zone focus simplifies shooting. An intentionally analogue-feel camera in a digital era.
Frequently asked questions
What is 'half-frame' and why bother?
Half-frame cameras expose half of each normal 35mm frame - two images per frame. So a 36-exposure roll gives 72 images. Historically used when film was expensive; today it's a way to make film photography more economical. Images are approximately 17x24mm (half of 36x24mm).
Is Pentax making other new film cameras?
Pentax has publicly committed to reviving film-camera manufacturing, with the 17 being the first release. Future models (including possibly an SLR) have been hinted at. The Pentax 17 is the first new film camera from a major manufacturer in many years.
Specifications
| Type | Compact Film |
|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Pentax K Mount |
| Condition | New |
| Brand | Pentax |