Pentax 645D unveiled in Japan

Pentax have pulled one of the biggest stories of the week out of the bag on the last day of the Focus on Imaging show, without actually attending the event. This morning in Japan they have announced their long anticipated medium format digital camera. The 645D features a full size medium format sensor (larger than a full frame 35mm sensor)designed by Kodak with a studio friendly 40 million pixels. The camera also features Pentax's Real Image Engine processing, a 14bit A/D converter, and a new SAFOX IX+ 11 point autofocus system.

The lens mount appears to be the same original 645 mount that featured on previous film medium format cameras, therefore allowing compatibility with older lenses, though Pentax have also launched a new D-FA lens to accompany the new body. This is a 55mm f/2.8 (43.5mm in 35mm equivalent) dust-proofed and weatherproofed to match the camera, and features Pentax's first fully rounded diaphragm.

One of the reasons perhaps for its absence at the Focus on Imaging show today could be due to the fact that the 645D is currently only be launched in Japan from May, with no indication so far as to if or when it will be arriving on our shores. Prices so far are expected to be around 850,000 yen (around £6315) for the camera and 100,000 (around £745) for the lens. The Pentax film 645 cameras have been used and adored by many professional fashion and portrait photographer in the past and no doubt Pentax will be hoping to tempt these lapsed or film Pentax users back into their new digital version.

We will bring you further details as soon as we have them.

Pentax 645D front view

Pentax 645D rear view

Press release:

The PENTAX Imaging Systems Division of HOYA Corporation in Japan will announce on 10th March 2AM CET (1AM GMT) a new digital medium-format camera, the 645D, and its 55mm lens, which will be launchedin Japan only.

Here are the main features of the 645D.

PENTAX 645D

Ø 40 Megapixels sensor (44 x 33mm), designed by Kodak

Ø PENTAX original Real Image Engine

Ø 14 bit A/D converter

Ø Dustproof, weather-resistant and coldproof body (70 seals)

Ø Dual SD/SDHC card slots

Ø New SAFOX IX+ autofocus system, with 11 sensor points

Ø Dust Removal II mechanism

Ø Trapezoid-shaped glass prism viewfinder

Ø Weight: 1480g loaded and ready with battery and 2 SD cards

PENTAX D-FA 645 55mm F2.8 AL [IF] SDM AW

Ø Equivalent to 43.5mm in the 35 format

Ø Dustproof, weatherproof

Ø Aero Bright coating

Ø First PENTAX completely rounded diaphragm

Ø SDM focus mechanism

Ø Weight: 416g

Planned launch date in Japan: May 2010.

The 645D does not have a RRP in Japan but is expected to sell for ¥850,000 while the lens is expected to have a street price around ¥100,000

It is not yet decided whether this camera will be available in other markets.