Pentax's late entry AF SLR (Z-70 in Europe) — the PZ-70, program auto, built-in flash, KAF mount, 1995.
The Pentax PZ-70 is a 35mm autofocus film SLR from 1995 and is the North American designation for the entry-level body sold elsewhere as the Z-70. It was one of the later low-cost cameras in the Z/PZ series, aimed at first-time SLR buyers wanting autofocus, automatic exposure and a built-in flash. It uses the Pentax KAF autofocus mount and was sold under the Pentax name.
It is a 35mm single-lens-reflex camera using the Pentax KAF autofocus mount, with through-the-lens metering and in-body autofocus. The electronically-timed focal-plane shutter reaches a top speed of 1/2000. Exposure modes include program, aperture-priority, shutter-priority and manual, plus auto-picture scene programs for common subjects. It has a built-in pop-up flash and motorised film advance. All operation is electronic, so the camera depends on its battery to focus, meter and fire.
The PZ-70 suits beginners and casual photographers wanting a simple autofocus SLR with a built-in flash for family, travel and everyday use, while keeping manual and aperture-priority for learning. It accepts autofocus KAF lenses and older manual K-mount optics. As the twin of the Z-70 it is highly automated and light, and easy to run in program mode.
For a used example, check the foam light seals and mirror-damper foam, then the electronics. Verify the LCD display is complete and not bleeding, autofocus works and the pop-up flash fires. Look for the perished sticky surface coating and worn plastic parts seen across the Z/PZ series, particularly on the back door and grip. Test the motorised advance, confirm the exposure modes and metering, and note the camera will not operate without a good battery.