Table of Contents
Pentax-A SMC 15mm f/3.5
Summary
The SMC Pentax-A 15mm f/3.5 is a rare ultra-wide-angle prime introduced in 1984 and produced until 2004, designed for full-frame K-mount film cameras. It’s the final evolution of Pentax’s legendary 15mm design, sharing the same 13-element - 12-group optical formula as its K-series predecessor, but with a redesigned barrel and the addition of the “A” setting for full aperture automation on compatible bodies. It features Super Multi-Coating (SMC), a 5-blade automatic diaphragm, and built-in rear filters (Skylight, UV, Yellow, Orange) due to the bulbous front element, which precludes front filter use. The lens stops down to f/22, focuses as close as 30 cm, and delivers 0.06× magnification. It weighs 595g, measures 80 × 81.5mm, and includes a built-in hood, metal slip-on cap, and was originally sold with the HE-120 hard case or S90-100 soft case.
Tech Specs
| Manufacturer | Pentax |
| Series | A Series Prime |
| Model | SMC |
| Focal Length | 15mm |
| Max Aperture | f/3.5 |
| Min Aperture | f/22 |
| Format | Full-Frame |
| Image Circle | - |
| Minimum Focus | 30cm |
| Focus Rotation | ° |
| Iris Blades | 5 |
| Optical Design | 12/13 |
| Squeeze | none |
| Front Diameter | 80mm |
| Filter Thread | none (built in filter wheel) |
| Focus/Zoom Rod | none |
| Native Mount | Pentax K |
| Data Protocol | none |
| Length | 81.5mm |
| Weight | 595g |
| Body Telescope | - |
| Body Material | - |
| Focus Drive | - |
| Iris Drive | - |
| Zoom Drive | - |
History
Country of Origin:
Release Date: 1984
Launch Price:
Design Revisions: