Ricoh Imaging’s Pentax K-1 Mark II DSLR, launched in 2018, is reportedly no longer available from major Japanese retailers, signaling the end of an era for Pentax DSLRs in their home market. The Pentax K-1 II’s availability is of particular interest as Asobinet reports that Camera Kitamura, Map Camera Bic, Yodobashi, and Ricoh Imaging list the camera as “discontinued,” “sales ended,” or “sold out.” This follows the discontinuation of the Pentax KF in Japan last May, leaving no active Pentax DSLR production in the country.
The Future of the Pentax K-1 II DSLR
It’s worth noting that product listings as “discontinued” can precede official announcements. While production might have stopped, remaining inventory may still be available through certain retailers. Companies typically don’t announce when they cease production, which might explain why Ricoh Imaging has remained silent on the Pentax K-1 II’s status.
Exploring the Potential of the Pentax K-1 II’s Successor
On the hopeful side, Pentax is reportedly developing a new DSLR model. The Pentax K-1 II’s successor might be in the works, as the company confirmed this intent to PetaPixel last year, with Ricoh President Yasutomo Mori stating, “We are sticking to the DSLR system as a Pentax brand.” The company aims to reimagine the DSLR to attract younger generations, indicating an ongoing commitment to the format.
A reliable source known as “asahi man” indicates that a new Pentax DSLR is in some stage of production, though specifics are unclear. If Pentax is indeed preparing a new release, the absence of any DSLRs in Japan suggests that a launch might be imminent, possibly replacing the Pentax K-1 II’s role in the market.
In the United States, the Pentax K-1 II remains available, priced at $1,796.95 at B&H. The 36.4-megapixel full-frame DSLR is still a choice for photography enthusiasts. The Pentax KF, however, is listed as discontinued, though an existing kit retails for $1,193.90. The crystal blue Pentax KF is also available for $729.95, showing a commitment to serving diverse consumer preferences.
Photography enthusiasts still have options in the US. Check out how Vincent Flouret uses photography to capture unique subjects, offering inspiration for Pentax users.
Ricoh’s online US store continues to list the K-1 II for sale, while the K-3 Mark III and its Monochrome variant are shown but not available. The omission of the K-3 III Monochrome, launched in mid-2023, from major listings is particularly puzzling.
PetaPixel reached out to Ricoh Imaging USA for comments on the Pentax K-1 II’s status but received no reply by publication time.
Image credits: Ricoh Imaging. Background licensed via Depositphotos.com.
As Pentax looks to the future, let’s explore how retro design innovations have reignited interest in other classic formats, similar to Ricoh’s hopes with DSLRs.
Sources & Links
Source: petapixel.com
Frequently asked questions
Is the Pentax K-1 II still available in Japan?
The Pentax K-1 II is reportedly no longer available from major Japanese retailers, as they list the camera as ‘discontinued,’ ‘sales ended,’ or ‘sold out.’
Is Pentax developing a new DSLR model?
Pentax is reportedly developing a new DSLR model, as the company confirmed their intent to PetaPixel last year, and a reliable source suggests that it is in some stage of production.
What is the price of the Pentax K-1 II in the US?
In the United States, the Pentax K-1 II remains available, priced at $1,796.95 at B&H.