If you are accustomed only to digital cameras, you will find the view through our 6X7 thrilling; this camera is the next best format to the 4X5 view camera for inspiring, artistic photographs where authentic film and print processing command the outcome of your work!
So, what is in this original owner's package?
Asahi Pentax 6X7 body --- original version with eye level prism through the lens viewing, battery (newly installed) powered shutter, 120 or 220 film options --- purchased new 27 Oct 1976 at Utsuki Camera and is still in nice functioning condition with cosmetic flaws, eg, minimal rust on rivets left back interior (film movement areas remain 'new' in appearnce), bronze showing through black finish on edges and a 'no harm' dent in viewing hood top --- functions as always mechanically and appears ready for film and shooting
105mm f/2.4 SMC Takumar normal lens --- with lens hood and caps; both our lenses seem optically very well preserved and have appropriate natural colors as tested while attached for viewing
55mm f/3.5 SMC Takumar wide angle lens --- a fabulous to use lens has its hood, case & cap --- unidentified spots of hardened white paint-like substance are on the exterior lens rings but do not affect or hinder operation
Official Asahi Pentax hard case --- holds body with 105mm lens, meter, film. a bit more
Original film cocking key --- never used
Official opertions manual
Gossen Luna Pro light meter & spot meter attachment --- wonderful to use; no batteries were on hand for testing but I know no reason to not perform properly
In response to a 2024 customer inquiry, I wrote "I am the original owner and only user. Although stored for years, I occasionally operate it filmless out of fond memories. Without film, it operates and sounds the same as in the past. Focusing with each lens is smooth and viewing has same wonderful clarity as in past with excellent in & out of focus functioning as always. Cosmetic flaws did not inhibit operation when I was actively using the system. Lenses do not have fogging or mold that I can find and are very clear in viewing with camera. Shutter & mirror seem same as in past. I carefully cleaned minimal rust and lubed rivets at left back interior and checked operation as if film were present; I believe film movement remains proper in the film passage area with pressure plate, rollers & springs working and looking fine Bronze showing through black finish on edges and a 'no harm' dent in viewing hood top do not affect function today just as it did not in the past. Personally, I think camera is is optically and mechanically ready for film and shooting. Prior to responding, I again checked the camera and lenses to see if I missed anything; no new developments were found and functioning of lenses in focusing are as stated. If desired, an experienced camera technician's cleaning and inspection might also be a worthy venture."
Later 6X7 cameras had mirror lockup supposedly to 'avoid' shutter motion. I along with other users never experienced the need for that feature, and my photos never reflected mechanical movement. Although I used a Tiltall 4602 tripod for most landscape and catalog work, hand held shots were easy to accomplish as long as you steadily held the camera's heavy weight. Depending on which lens is attached, camera weight is either 5.3 pounds or 6.25 pounds. My experience and appreciation of this camera highly challenged my respect for my Leica M3's incredible performance. With both cameras, I used the included outstanding Luna Pro meter. Holding and viewing a 6X7 negative or transparency is one of life's best photographic privileges!