Pentax's updated flagship AF SLR — the Z-1p, hyper controls, 1/8000, KAF mount, 1994.
The Pentax Z-1p is a 35mm autofocus film SLR from 1994 and the revised top model of the Z/PZ series, sold in North America as the PZ-1p. It updated the Z-1 with refinements to the autofocus and control system while keeping the same advanced-amateur to semi-professional positioning. 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-program and hyper-manual system operated through two control dials for quick program shift and instant manual override. Metering includes multi-segment and centre-weighted options. The camera has motorised film advance and is fully electronic and battery-dependent.
The Z-1p suits enthusiasts and professionals wanting a fast, flexible autofocus body with a broad shutter range and rapid twin-dial exposure control, suited to portraits, travel and general assignment use. It accepts power-zoom KAF lenses and the wider K-mount range in manual focus. Like the Z-1 it is larger and more electronics-dependent than the compact manual Pentax bodies, in exchange for speed and control.
As a used buy, check the foam light seals and mirror-damper foam, then focus on the electronics. Confirm the LCD displays are intact and not bleeding, the autofocus and twin dials respond, and the built-in metering modes work. This generation is prone to a perished sticky surface coating and worn plastic parts, so inspect the body exterior and film back. Test the motorised advance, verify all exposure modes, and note that the camera cannot fire or meter without a good battery.