Asahi Pentax Pentax S1a
The Asahi Pentax S1a is a 35mm film SLR from the M42 screw-mount era of Asahi Optical's Pentax line. It was positioned within the company's earlier Spotmatic-period range and is sought today by collectors of vintage Japanese SLRs rather than as a working tool.
Sales data for the Pentax S1a is very thin: the only verified UK auction record on file is a single hammer result of £25 in June 2023, so the documented saleroom value sits at the low end of vintage SLR pricing. With one data point it is not possible to give a reliable range or median, and what an S1a is worth today in 2026 will depend heavily on cosmetic condition, working shutter speeds and whether a period lens is included.
Sales History
Prices shown are UK auction hammer results — the wholesale level achieved in the saleroom. Neither buyer’s nor seller’s commission is included. Dealer and retail asking prices are typically higher.
Prices updated: June 2023
| Date | Price | Source | |
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| Jun 2023 | £25 | Flints Auctions | |
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Auction: Cameras & Scientific Instruments (Lot 348) Title: A Pentax S1a 35mm SLR Camera
Description:
chrome, body G-VG, shutter working but second curtain doesn't fully close, requires service, with Super-Takumar f/2 55mm lens, optics G, some light (Qty: 1) |
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| Feb 2005 | £60 | Christie's | |
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Auction: CAMERAS AND PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT (Lot 134) Title: Pentax S1a no. 678999
Description:
Pentax S1a no. 678999 Estimate: £80 - £120 |
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| Oct 1998 | £57 | Christie's | |
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Auction: CAMERAS & OPTICAL TOYS (Lot 194) Title: Pentax S1a no. 704631
Description:
Pentax S1a no. 704631 Estimate: £25 - £100 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Pentax S1a worth today?
Based on the limited UK auction data available, a Pentax S1a has sold for around £25 at hammer, though clean, fully working examples with a lens can sell for more. The single data point makes a precise value hard to pin down.
How much does a Pentax S1a sell for at auction?
The one verified UK saleroom result on file is £25 hammer in 2023. That price reflects a body-only or modest-condition sale and excludes buyer's premium.
Is the Pentax S1a a good buy at this price?
At around £25 it is an inexpensive entry into M42-mount shooting, but factor in the cost of a service or light-seal replacement before treating it as a user camera.