Ricoh’s Pentax may not have a massive market share, but the company certainly has a loyal set of users. One of the few brands that still work with DSLRs and film cameras, Pentax recently won the hearts (and award) for its popular camera, the Pentax 17. An affordable film camera designed for analog enthusiasts, the device put Pentax back on the map. However, since the K-1 II, a full-frame DSLR launched in 2018, the camera company has not yet revealed a new device for this segment. However, despite this, a new lens patent published by Pentax proves that all may not yet be lost.
According to Asobinet, the company has published patent P2025083507, which showcases three different designs for zoom lenses. The focal range, the report notes, are examples of 70-150mm f4.5-5.6 SR, 150-250mm SR, and 70-180mm f4-6.3 SR mirrorless. Althoogh Pentax doesn’t have a mirrorless camera, the last focal range could be a design for research purposes. Per the patent, the goal is to design lightweight zoom lenses, that can also have great control over abberations, and provide prestine image quality. However, the company hopes to achieve this by using light weight glass materials near the rear of the zoom lens.
Example 1
- Focal length: 72.08-157.13
- F-number: 4.6-5.7
- Half angle of view: 17.2-4.4
- Image height: 21.64
- Total length: 190.18-259.23
- Back focus: 42.56-66.55
Example 2
- Focal length: 72.10-180.33
- F-number: 4.1-6.1
- Half angle of view: 17.4-3.6
- Image height: 21.64
- Total length: 198.41-285.17
- Back Focus: 8.34-32.23
Example 3
- Focal length: 154.50-242.46
- F-number: 5.3-7.9
- Half angle of view: 7.8-2.0
- Image height: 21.64
- Total length: 302.82-411.23
- Back Focus: 50.52-84.97
So far, there has been no word on Pentax launching a new DSLR or mirrorless camera. In fact, the Pentax 17 was supposed to have its own series, but after the lead designer of the camera, Takeo Suzuki (affectiinaly known as TKO), decided to leave Pentax, it means that this series will also face a delay. This also means that the new patent could be for research purposes then actual production of lenses.
The company launched three lenses in 2023, HD Pentax-FA 50mm f1.4, Pentax-FA 50mm f1.4 Classic, and HD Pentax-D
FA MACRO 100mm f2.8ED AW. Since then, the company shifted its focus on a new camera, which worked in its favour. It is possible that with return of DSLRs, some users may look at K1 II again, and for that, they meed to re-introduce affordable new lenses. Or, these designs could be for compact bridge cameras. The latter is unlikely, but should not be ruled out.
Either way, Pentax has created great lenses like the 15-30mm f2.8 and 28-105mm f3.5-5.6 ED DC WR which were affordable, offered great colors and built, and weather sealing. If the company launches new lenses, then we know it will do great. But it remains to be seen what they decide to do this year, but it is possible that we may not hear from them anytime soon. Until the, keep an eye out for more.
