Asahi Pentax S2 / H2

1959

Similar to the AP, S, and K models preceeding it, the S2 made a further advancement by placing all shutter speeds (even the slow ones) on one dial on the top of the camera. Those speeds ranged from 1 – 1/500.

Additional refinements included a fresnel focusing screen and a small window by the wind lever that indicates that the shutter is cocked.

Accessories for this model included and external meter that coupled to the shutter dial.

Asahi Pentax S2 / H2 viewfinder

Technicals Specifications:

Original List Price (1959): $179.50 w/50 2.0
Price in 2022 Dollars: $1826.90*
Manufacturer: Asahi Kogaku (Pentax)
Model: S2 / H2
Year Introduced: 1959
Film Format: 35mm SLR
Lens: M42 mount
Shutter: cloth, horizontal travel
Self-timer: no
Shutter Speeds: 1 – 1/500
Shutter Release: on top
Built-in Meter: No
Film Speed/ASA Range: na
Flash Sync: 1/50 (X between 30 and 60)
Film Advance: on top
Frame Counter: on top
Exposure Modes: manual
Finder: no settings visible
Focusing Screens: center micro-prism
Mirror: quick-return
Battery: NA

*Based on current information at
in2013dollars.com

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