Ricoh's XR-7M — aperture-priority AE SLR with built-in motor, Pentax K mount, 1987.
The Ricoh XR-7M is a 35mm film SLR made by Ricoh and released in 1987 as a later development of the XR-7 within the XR line, using the Pentax K bayonet mount. It brought a built-in motorised film advance to the XR-7 concept and sat toward the top of Ricoh's aperture-priority range. It was aimed at enthusiasts.
It is a single-lens reflex for 35mm film using the Pentax K bayonet mount. The XR-7M offers aperture-priority automatic exposure with a manual option and through-the-lens metering, plus a built-in motorised film advance. It uses an electronically controlled shutter and depends on battery power for metering, automation and the motor drive. Exposure information is shown in the viewfinder.
The XR-7M suits general, travel, street and reportage photographers who want aperture-priority automation and automatic film advance in one body with the K-mount lens choice. The integrated motor speeds up handling for quick sequences. Its strengths are the automation and lens compatibility; its limits are full battery dependence and the added complexity of the motor.
For used buyers, treat it as an electronic body and confirm it powers up and that the motor drive cycles correctly, since motor and circuit faults are the usual issue. Check the foam light seals and mirror-damper foam for perishing, test the shutter and meter, and inspect the battery compartment for corrosion. Verify film loading and continuous advance, check the prism and screen for haze, and note a flat battery leaves the camera inoperable.