• Half-size format (17 x 24mm)
• Manual camera operation unique to film cameras
• Newly developed fixed-focal lens combining time-proven optics and the latest lens coating technology
• Zone-focus system to switch the in-focus area via a simple selection of zone marks
• Bright optical viewfinder for real-time confirmation of a subject image
• Seven shooting modes to accommodate different applications
• High-quality body with meticulous attention to every detail
• Built-in Flash

Half-size format (17 x 24mm)

The PENTAX 17 camera features a half-size format, capturing two 17mm x 24mm pictures in a single 35mm format frame (36mm x 24mm). It utilizes a horizontal film advance mechanism. When held in the usual way, it captures vertical-format pictures, similar to the images captured by smartphones commonly used today for picture-taking.

Manual camera operation unique to film cameras
The PENTAX 17 has a manual film winding mechanism similar to those in PENTAX-brand SLR film cameras. After each shutter release, the film advance lever lets the user enjoy the winding action and hear a wind-up sound. Its easy-loading system is designed to prevent film-loading errors, which can be especially helpful for first-time film camera users. Additionally, it includes other unique mechanisms found in film cameras, such as manual film rewinding using the rewind crank, exposure compensation adjustment via the exposure compensation dial, and ISO sensitivity setting via the ISO sensitivity dial.

A newly developed fixed-focal lens combines time-proven optics and the latest lens coating technology.
The PENTAX 17 features a newly developed 25mm F3.5 fixed-focal lens (equivalent to a 37mm lens in the 35mm format). The lens is based on the optics in the acclaimed PENTAX Espio Mini, marketed in 1994, and has been redesigned to fit perfectly in the half-size format. It also has HD (high-definition) coating, a highly acclaimed multi-layer coating, to optimize the clarity and sharpness of half-size pictures. The angle of view and focal length were chosen to make casual, everyday picture-taking simple and flawless, using the lens from the RICOH Auto Half, a best-selling half-size model first marketed in 1962, as a reference.

Zone-focus system to switch the in-focus area via a simple selection of zone marks
The PENTAX 17 features a zone-focus system with six focus zones, each indicated by marks. To adjust the focus, you simply select the mark that corresponds to the subject distance on the zone focusing ring. Use the macro focus zone for close-up photos approximately 25 centimetres away. Additionally, the hand strap, a standard accessory, helps ensure a more accurate measurement of the subject distance.

Bright optical viewfinder for real-time confirmation of a subject image
The PENTAX 17's optical viewfinder features an Albada-type bright frame finder. It also comes with a close-up visual field compensation frame to help you more easily compose close-up images. It is possible to check the zone marks directly through the

Seven shooting modes to accommodate different applications
The PENTAX 17 automatically adjusts exposure settings based on the lighting data collected by its metering sensor. In addition to the Full Auto mode, it offers six shooting modes, including Slow-speed sync, which is useful for twilight photography, and Bulb, which is handy for nightscapes and fireworks. The camera also features an independent exposure compensation dial, allowing users to quickly adjust the exposure level to accommodate different subjects or express their creative intentions.

High-quality body with meticulous attention to every detail
The PENTAX 17's body has a classic design, hinting at the traditional look of film cameras. The top and bottom covers are made of a solid but lightweight magnesium alloy to optimize the camera body's rigidity. The 40.5mm filter mounting thread allows the user to mount various filters available on the market. With meticulous attention to every detail, the PENTAX 17 is designed to be a joy to own.