Pentax Asahi k1000 - To Buy or Not to Buy

[cerenatee]

I'm interested in buying a Pentax Asahi k1000 from a lady who lives 2 hours away from me. The lady asserts the last time she used it - a year ago - the camera worked fine. However, today she emailed me and said she noticed the shutter button got unscrewed somehow and she can't find it. She said you can still press the button though and it won't be a big deal to find a replacement.

I know absolutely nothing about cameras. Before I drive 4 hours round trip, will someone please tell me if it is a big deal to find a replacement. In addition, what are the things I should look for when buying a used camera?

Thanks for any assistance you can provide.

Serenity

[PWhite214]

I still have a Pentax k1000, it served me well for many years.

I would call a local camera shop and ask the question about spare parts. With the number of these cameras sold, I would think that you could find the part pretty easily, but a quick search on EBAY (USA) showed only one parts camera to bid on.

Since you are new to cameras, you might want to take a knowledgeable friend along to check out the camera. I am not sure I could list all the things I would look for, with out leaving out some important item that you need. A roll of film and a trip to the 1-hour film process at the local drugstore should tell the story.

I hope this helps,

Phil

[cerenatee]

Thanks Phil. I appreciate the help. I'll take your advice about the roll of film. Unfortunately, my friends are as clueless as I am.

Sharrye

[Greg McCary]

You can find a nice one at rangefinderforum.com in the classifieds from time to time if you want a replacement or one for parts. As for buying one. Make sure the shutter fires on all speed including the slow ones and make sure the aperature open and closes on the lens. Check the light seals around the cover if it has them. Bad seals can cause light leaks. I can't remember what kind of seals the K1000 has. But they are known for there ruggedness.