Ricoh Pentax proved how thinking differently can lead to success. The company launched its first film camera after a long hiatus in 2024, which catapulted it to immense fame among film photographers. This was because the device was unique in its own way, especially considering that the company was going against the mirrorless tide to launch an analog camera. And now, reports suggest that one has to wait further for a new film camera from the company, as Pentax is now facing the challenge of core member’s retirement this year.
Takeo Suzuki, also known as “TKO” lovingly, is the lead designer behind the Pentax 17. Per DC Life, the designer has announced on Instagram that he is leaving Pentax, stating that March will be his last month. In his heartfelt post, TKO says his decision is to focus on his life again: “I have been very busy for several years, so I would like to take a break for a while. I would like to make time to read books, draw pictures, of course take photos, meet many people and gain a lot of knowledge.” TKO’s decision has certainly shocked Pentax users, but the company has other plans.
Kosmo Fotos reached out to Ricoh Imaging Europe to get a better understanding of the situation now, and they learned that the company is likely to keep the new Pentax 17 lineup on hold. The company said they needed to evaluate the demand for film cameras and whether it would make sense to launch a new model. “On the business side, film cameras currently play a smaller role than our established GR line,” the company told the publication. “Because this is our first new film camera in more than 15 years, we need time to gather feedback, meet with customers, and learn what they appreciated – or felt was missing – before making decisions on future film products.”
On the other hand, they also reiterated that TKO’s departure will not impact “the possibility of future film models.” So, if the demand for the Pentax 17 seems high and users want a newer model, then the company will hire someone in his place to continue the production.
However, if the latter does come true, we would want Pentax to work on the camera in such a way that young and old photographers alike can enjoy it. The Pentax 17 was specifically created for the younger generation, dabbling with the medium for the first time, so there are a few things that they can change with the later models:
- Add manual controls other than exposure compensation
- Maybe add an autofocus
- More sturdy build and weather resistance
- Increase shutter speed from 1/350th to 1/4000sec
- Make a more full-featured camera for serious enthusiasts
The Pentax 17 is a few hundred dollars, but it is more reliable than the old film cameras in the market. So, if they create a more advanced version for serious photographers, the company will be able to tap into the existing market of professional film photographers. This is not a camera one would utilize daily, considering the cost of film, but rather something they rely on to capture special moments. If Pentax is reading this, you know where you can head next.