The following side-by-side table enumerates the many properties of the various Spotmatic-family of cameras. As the Spotmatic evolved from a basic SLR with a TTL meter, it took on different characteristics. It was offered in a meter-less version (the "SL"); stripped versions without self-timers, a limited range of shutter speeds, and base lenses (Sp500 and Sp1000); increasingly sophisticated versions of the original Spotmatic (Spotmatic, Spotmatic II, IIa, and F); and finally a run of electronic, automatics, the "end" of the M42, screw-mount cameras from Asahi (The Electro-Spotmatic, ES, and ESII).
Within each of these ranges, are numerous smaller variations. For example, the early Spotmatics had different external (most visible are the self-timer lever, meter switch, top cover attachment method, and film counter height) and internal features (shutter, meter, and other mechanical changes) than later Spotmatics. These important but constantly changing variations are largely left unaddressed in this table.
This table provides the Spotmatic aficionado as well as the neophyte a way to identify features across the range and perhaps identify the camera in hand, discover new properties, or make a selection from the many varieties of Spotmatic-family cameras available in the used market, based on personal preference, or perhaps based on collection needs...
The specifications cited in this table are derived from Asahi Pentax publications and verified with first-hand observation. Over a period of nearly 30 years, Asahi Optical Company were remarkably consistent in the data published about their products. I have found it to be precise, consistent across various company sources, and most often cited in the same manner. This has made it possible to compile this data with a high degree of confidence with regard to its accuracy.
However, for the lawyers and PDML members (c'mon, smile, you know who you are...) who will find and wish to challenge this chart, I make no claims of perfection. I'd have to be dead and gone to heaven or something...
One particular area of data that is vexing is that Asahi cited weights and dimensions based on the "standard" lens. However, until the early 1970's, they offered two "standard" lenses on their cameras yet only quoted one weight with standard lens... It "looks" like they were speaking of the 55mm f/1.8 or f/2.0. But they changed mid-stream... If you are really concerned about the weight of a particular camera/lens combination, go weigh it!
I have also had to extrapolate some technical data about the Electro-Spotmatic. The example I have in hand provides evidence that it was largely identical to my ES from a visible feature standpoint, though it is well known that the mechanical and electronic properties of the two cameras were quite different in many ways. For those who do not like the format of the chart, I submit that you should have gotten a Minolta SRt...
Thanks to Philip Barton who triggered this insane project, completed in one sitting over a three hour period. Phil, I'm going to read the rest of my email now - I should have never opened yours! :-p
ppro
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