Ricoh Imaging has announced a monochromatic edition of the SLR camera Pentax K-3 Mark III, aimed at photographers who specialize in black and white images. Pentax previously exhibited the first prototype in December 2020. Based on a 25.7 MP BSI CMOS sensor in APS-C format, the new monochrome DSLR excludes color and low-pass filters. An AA filter simulator is included to prevent moiré. The new camera is expected to be available from the end of April 2023, at a recommended price of €2,500 ($2,943), which is significantly more than its color-sensitive counterpart that is priced around €1,700 ($1,998).
The native sensor sensitivity of the camera increases by one level, so the monochrome sensor’s lowest ISO setting is ISO 200, while its maximum ISO setting is ISO 1,600,000. According to Pentax, the monochrome version of the camera provides sharper images at all ISO levels and improved performance in low light conditions. Additionally, Ricoh Imaging customizes the processing modes and parameters of the monochrome model, which also records videos in a resolution of up to 4K/30p.
The camera offers minimalist features for videographers, and it differs from its sister model in that the backlight for the LC shoulder display is white instead of green, and the controls are labeled in gray. While the K-3 Mark III is the first SLR to feature a five-axis stabilized monochrome sensor, having a pure grayscale camera is not entirely new, as Leica introduced the M Monochrom rangefinder model back in 2012 and currently offers the M10 Monochrom, and Phase One sells an achromatic back for its IQ4 system.
Although these monochrome cameras serve niche market segments, Pentax is taking a risk with its new monochrome model, as buyers will not only forgo color but also the benefits of an electronic viewfinder. However, the built-in phase autofocus functions well, even in low light conditions. The housing is also robust, cold, and weatherproof, and the battery can last up to 800 shots (CIPA standard). The color-sensitive sensor is of particular interest to astrophotographers, providing tracking of the Milky Way with the integrated astrotracer function. However, the camera lacks an integrated GPS, requiring an optional module.
The monochrome model also offers two card slots (one of which is UHS-II compatible), 14-bit raw output, internal raw development, and an electronic shutter of up to 1/16,000 seconds. The battery can be charged in the camera via USB-C. While the camera should be available by the end of April 2023, Ricoh Imaging warns that some special parts of the model may cause production and delivery delays. Therefore, buyers should not rush to purchase the camera.
