Pentax's flagship 1990s AF SLR — the Z-1, hyper controls, 1/8000, KAF mount, 1991.
The Pentax Z-1 is a 35mm autofocus film SLR from 1991, sold in North America as the PZ-1. It was the top model of the Z/PZ series and Pentax's advanced-amateur to semi-professional autofocus body of the early 1990s, introducing features such as a hyper-program and hyper-manual control system. It uses the Pentax KAF autofocus mount and was marketed under the Pentax name in the UK.
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 vertical focal-plane shutter reaches a top speed of 1/8000 with flash sync at 1/250. Exposure modes cover program, aperture-priority, shutter-priority and manual, with the hyper system letting the user shift the program or jump to manual using the two control dials. Metering options include multi-segment and centre-weighted patterns. Film advance is motorised and all functions are electronic and battery-dependent.
The Z-1 suits enthusiasts and working photographers who want fast autofocus, a wide shutter range and quick control over exposure through its twin-dial hyper system, useful for portraits, travel and general assignment work. It handles the power-zoom KAF lenses and the full K-mount range. Its size and reliance on electronics contrast with the simple M-series bodies, but it offers far more speed and flexibility.
For a used example, check the foam light seals and mirror-damper foam. The most important checks are electronic: confirm the LCD panels are complete and not bleeding, the autofocus drives smoothly, and the twin control dials respond. A well-known weakness on this generation is the perishing of a rubberised or sticky coating and worn plastic film-back and grip parts, so inspect the exterior. Verify the meter and all exposure modes, test the motorised advance, and remember the camera needs a healthy battery to operate at all.