Pentax ME Super Camera Value Guide

The Pentax ME Super is a landmark 35mm SLR that refined the compact camera market between 1979 and 1984. It is highly collectible for its pioneering electronic vertical-travel metal focal plane shutter and its ability to bridge the gap between amateur ease-of-use and professional manual control.

What affects the value of Pentax ME Super Camera?

• Functional accuracy of the electronic metering system and the 4-second to 1/2000-second shutter range.
• Physical condition of the metal body and the clarity of the glass optics in the viewfinder.
• Presence of original SMC Pentax lenses, which significantly enhance the $250 market value.
• Integrity of the light seals and the battery compartment, as these often require maintenance in vintage units.

How to Identify Pentax ME Super Camera?

• Look for the 'ME Super' branding engraved on the front of the pentaprism housing.
• Verify the presence of two small black buttons near the film advance lever used for manual shutter speed selection.
• Check for the Seiko MFC-E2 electronic metal focal plane shutter which supports speeds up to 1/2000 second.
• Confirm the 'Asahi Pentax' or 'Pentax' logo on the top plate, indicating its Japanese origin.

History of Pentax ME Super Camera

Introduced in 1979 by Pentax, the ME Super was an updated version of the popular ME model. It stood out for its electronic vertical-travel metal focal plane shutter, offering speeds from 4 seconds to 1/2000 second, and an advanced metering system. It was a favorite among amateur photographers and enthusiasts for its ease of use in aperture-priority auto-exposure mode, while still providing manual control for more experienced users. The ME Super played a significant role in making SLR photography accessible to a wider audience, solidifying Pentax's reputation for quality and innovation in the camera market.